Padwa-is derived from Pratipada, the first day of a lunar month or the first day after new moon day (Amavasya).Thus, celebrations and festivals were often linked to the turn of the season and to the sowing and reaping of crops. This day marks the end of one harvest and the beginning of a new one, which for an agricultural community signifies the beginning of a New Year.

This festival is supposed to mark the beginning of the season,Vasant (Spring).This is the first day of Marathi Calendar.According to the Brahma Purana, this is the day on which Brahma created the world after the deluge and time began move from this day forth.

This is one of the 3 and a half days in the Indian Lunar calendar called "Sade-Teen Muhurt", whose every moment is considered auspicious in general to start a new venture.On Gudhipadwa, courtyards in village houses are swept clean and plastered with cow-dung.

In the cities, people do special cleaning and dress up in new clothes It is the time for family gatherings.  Traditionally, families are supposed to begin the festivities by eating the bittersweet leaves of the neem tree. Sometimes, a paste of neem leaves is prepared and mixed with ajwain,gul/gur ( jaggery), and tamarind.

 All the members of the family consume this paste, which is believed to purify the blood and strengthen immunity.On the festive day, courtyards in village houses will be swept clean and plastered with fresh cow-dung.

Even in the city, people take the time out to do some spring-cleaning. Women and children work on intricate rangolidesigns on their doorsteps, the vibrant colours mirroring the burst of colour associated with spring.