1st

Chaitra

ಚೈತ್ರ

Kannada

Mar 21–Apr 19 Lunar Aries–Taurus (♈→♉)

Major Festivals

Chaitra Suklha Prathama / Ugadi

ಚೈತ್ರ ಶುಕ್ಲ ಪ್ರಥಮ / ಉಗಾದಿ

Mar 21–Apr 2

Kannada New Year. Celebrated with pujas, Gudi raising (flag), and special foods. Marks the beginning of agricultural new year in Karnataka.

Hanuman Jayanti

ಹನುಮಾನ್ ಜಯಂತಿ

Mid–Late Apr

Birth of Lord Hanuman, celebrated with temple prayers and fasting. Hanuman (the devoted follower of Rama) represents loyalty, strength, and devotion.

Auspicious Days for Rituals & Events

✓ Chaitra Pournami (Full moon) — Hanuman Jayanti if coinciding, highly auspicious

✓ Chaitra Amavasai (New moon) — Ugadi, for new year initiations

About Chaitra

ಚೈತ್ರ (Chaitra) marks the Kannada New Year (Ugadi) with cultural and agricultural significance. Celebrations include raising the Gudi and preparing traditional foods. The month (Aries–Taurus) represents new beginnings and manifestation. Hanuman Jayanti celebrates the strength and devotion of Lord Hanuman, reinforcing Kannada values of loyalty and courage. Chaitra is considered auspicious for starting new ventures in Karnataka and South India. Diaspora Kannada communities celebrate Ugadi with family gatherings and traditional Puran Poli preparations.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Ugadi 2026?

Ugadi 2026 falls on March 24, 2026 (Chaitra Suddha Pratipada). The exact date shifts yearly based on lunar calculations.

How is Hanuman Jayanti celebrated?

Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated with temple visits, special pujas to Lord Hanuman (the monkey deity representing strength and loyalty), fasting, and chanting of Hanuman Chalisa (40-verse prayer). Many undertake 40-day Hanuman Chalisa recitation practices starting on Hanuman Jayanti.

How do diaspora Kannadigas celebrate Ugadi?

Diaspora Kannada communities prepare traditional Ugadi items: Puran Poli (sweet bread), Gudi preparation with neem leaves, and family feasts. Many participate in temple Ugadi celebrations organized by Karnataka cultural associations. Video calls with family in Bangalore and Mysore mark the shared new year moment.

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