Why do we take bath with oil on the day of Gudi Padwa? Know the real reason and its importance

Gudi Padwa Oil Bath Tradition: Gudi Padwa is a major and traditional festival of Marathi society, celebrated on Shukla Pratipada of Chaitra month to mark the beginning of the Hindu new year Vikram Samvat. The festival will be celebrated on Thursday, March 19, 2026, which symbolizes new harvest, prosperity and victory. On this day, ‘Guri’ Feasts are celebrated and special dishes, such as Puran Poli, are prepared.

It is said that, people of Marathi society on the day of Gudi Padwa They make a Gudi at home and worship it, it is believed that doing so brings happiness and peace in the home. Also wealth and prosperity increases.

But on the first day of Hindu New Year i.e. Gudi Padwa, another important thing is done to get the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and that is ‘oil bath’. There are religious and scientific reasons behind taking oil bath on the day of Gudi Padwa.

Where is the tradition of oil bathing practiced?

Gudi Padwa festival and this tradition of oil bathing is especially performed in the states of Maharashtra, Goa and South India. Gudi Padwa festival is one of the major festivals of the year in these states.

What are the benefits of the tradition of taking oil bath?

• physical energy and vitality

Massaging and bathing with scented oil in the morning infuses energy into the body and removes laziness.

• skin nutrition

The oil keeps the skin hydrated, makes it soft and brings glow.

• immunity to disease

In the changing season (spring season), it helps in protecting the body from infections and increasing immunity.

• detoxification

It helps in flushing out the toxins from the body, thereby purifying the body from inside.

• improve blood circulation

Massage improves blood circulation in the body and reduces stress.

• spiritual purification

This tradition symbolizes purifying the mind and body at the beginning of the new year.

What is the importance of Gudi Padwa?

Gudi Padwa is considered the beginning of the Hindu New Year, which has special religious significance. ‘Gudi’ means flag or victory flag, while ‘Padwa’ means Pratipada date in Marathi language.

This is the reason why this festival is known as Gudi Padwa. It is believed that on this day the creator of the universe Lord Brahma Had created the world. Therefore, this date is considered very sacred for new beginnings, enthusiasm and auspicious works.