Karnataka celebrates Ugadi Today

16.03.10 Mangalore : Karnataka celebrates Ugadi today to mark the onset of spring, a beginning of new life with plants acquiring new life, shoots and leaves. Spring is considered the first season of the year hence also heralding a new year and a new beginning.
The Hindu Lunar calendar begins from today. More from AIR Correspondent.

The vibrancy of life, meadows full of colorful blossoms signifies growth, prosperity and well-being. This emergence of new life heralds a new beginning and is celebrated as New Year Day in Karnataka. It is common sight to see mango leaf festoon hanging over the threshold and neem leaves tucked on either sides in each and every house. The religious almanac is kept before the God’s photograph and offered puja, thereafter the forecast for the year according to Zodiac signs is read out by the family elders. After which a mix of neem flowers and jaggery is handed over to the members. This symbolizes the fact that life is a mixture of sadness and happiness, which should be accepted with equanimity. A significant feature of the festival in Karnataka is that Music festivals are organized in the evening by various cultural groups all over the state.