Ugadi 2026 Date, Pratipada Tithi & Significance
The beginning of a new year in the Telugu calendar is marked by the auspicious festival of Ugadi, which also signifies the start of the Telugu Shaka Samvat 1948.
In 2026, Ugadi will be celebrated on:
- Thursday, March 19, 2026
This day marks the first day of Chaitra month in the Telugu lunisolar calendar and the commencement of Shaka Samvat 1948.
Pratipada Tithi Timings – 2026
- Pratipada Tithi Begins: 06:52 AM on March 19, 2026
- Pratipada Tithi Ends: 04:52 AM on March 20, 2026
Since Pratipada Tithi prevails during sunrise on March 19, Ugadi will be observed on Thursday, March 19, 2026.
What is Ugadi?
Ugadi is the traditional New Year festival celebrated in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and by Telugu communities worldwide.
The word “Ugadi” is derived from the Sanskrit words:
- Yuga (age)
- Adi (beginning)
Thus, Ugadi literally means “the beginning of a new age.”
Significance of Telugu Shaka Samvat 1948
The Shaka calendar is an official civil calendar used in India. The beginning of Shaka Samvat 1948 on Ugadi symbolizes:
- A fresh start
- New hopes and resolutions
- Spiritual renewal
- Prosperity and growth
It is believed that Lord Brahma created the universe on this day, making it highly sacred in Hindu tradition.
Rituals of Ugadi
1️⃣ Oil Bath (Abhyanga Snanam)
Devotees wake up early and take a ritual oil bath before sunrise.
2️⃣ Mango Leaf Decorations
Homes are decorated with fresh mango leaves called Toranam at the entrance.
3️⃣ Ugadi Pachadi
One of the most unique traditions is preparing Ugadi Pachadi, a special dish that represents the six flavors of life:
- Sweet (Jaggery) – Happiness
- Sour (Tamarind) – Challenges
- Bitter (Neem flowers) – Sadness
- Spicy (Chili) – Anger
- Salty – Fear
- Tangy (Raw mango) – Surprise
It symbolizes accepting all emotions in the coming year.
4️⃣ Panchanga Shravanam
Priests or elders read the new year’s Panchangam (astrological almanac) predicting events for the year.
Spiritual Importance
Ugadi is considered highly auspicious for:
- Starting new ventures
- Purchasing property
- Planning weddings
- Performing special prayers
The day is associated with positivity, gratitude, and hope.
Ugadi 2026 Summary
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Telugu Shaka Samvat 1948 Begins | March 19, 2026 | Thursday |
| Pratipada Begins | March 19, 2026 | 06:52 AM |
| Pratipada Ends | March 20, 2026 | 04:52 AM |
| Ugadi | March 19, 2026 | Thursday |
Ugadi 2026 Wishes
🌸 Happy Ugadi 2026! May the New Year bring prosperity and joy.
🌿 Wishing you a year filled with health and happiness.
✨ May Shaka Samvat 1948 bless you with success.
🌼 Let this Ugadi mark a fresh beginning in your life.
🙏 Wishing peace and positivity for you and your family.
Conclusion
The beginning of Telugu Shaka Samvat 1948 on Thursday, March 19, 2026, marks a spiritually significant new year for Telugu communities. Ugadi symbolizes renewal, gratitude, and the acceptance of life’s diverse experiences.
May Ugadi 2026 bring prosperity, happiness, and new opportunities to all.
