13 April

Happy Gudi Padwa, Ugadi, Baisakhi to everyone who is celebrating today!

Being in Maharashtra for over a decade, I always experience the Gudi Padwa Celebrations the day before we celebrate Poila Baishakh which is the Bengali New Year. Gudi Padwa is the first day of Chaitra month and marked as the New year in Maharashtra.  A 'Gudi', a beautiful arrangement of silk saree or cloth tied to stick with a 'Lota' on the top and then decorated with sweets and garlands made of neem and mango. The day symbolizes the victory of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj over his enemies and Shalivahan’s victory over the Sakas.

Its early morning and its New year time! Last evening it rained with thundershower hence the weather feels a little cold. Much respite from the hot and humid feel of last evening. I kept checking out the lovely pictures of Gudi Padwa celebrations that were happening in the houses of my society. It makes me think that every Indian festival has a sweet charm of their own and even if you do not belong to that region by birth, you can still enjoy the festivities.

In Maharashtra, today folks prepare a lovely festive meal which mainly comprises of Puran Polis, Shrikhand, sabudana vada, kothimbir vadi etc. Its primarily a vegetarian fare. Since it is summers and its always refreshing to have a glass of coolers I thought I will add a little festive vibe to the normal milkshake with this Persian milkshake. Its so easy and so creamy you will be delighted to have it or serve it to your guest even without an occasion.