### Ugadi Telugu New Year 2017
Ugadi, referred to as Yugadi, signifies the commencement of the New Year for the residents of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. In 2017, Ugadi was observed on March 29th, signaling the onset of the Sri Hemalamba Nama Samvatsara. This celebration is important not only for its cultural and spiritual significance but also for the myriad traditions and culinary pleasures linked to it.
#### Significance of Ugadi
Ugadi is celebrated on the initial day of the Chaitra month according to the Hindu calendar. It represents the onset of spring and serves as a period for revival and renewal. People tidy their residences, adorn them with mango leaves, and ready themselves for the celebrations. It is said that the New Year ushers in fresh hopes and possibilities, making it a moment for new beginnings.
#### Traditional Celebrations
The observance of Ugadi generally includes a variety of rituals and traditions. Individuals visit temples, perform prayers, and seek blessings for a thriving year ahead. A pivotal element of Ugadi is the creation of special dishes, showcasing the rich variety of life’s flavors.
#### Ugadi Pachadi
A staple dish made during Ugadi is Ugadi Pachadi, a blend of six tastes: sweet, sour, bitter, spicy, salty, and tangy. This dish represents the diverse experiences of life, encouraging individuals to accept all dimensions of existence. The usual ingredients consist of jaggery, tamarind, unripe mango, neem flowers, salt, and green chili.
#### Festive Foods
Alongside Ugadi Pachadi, an assortment of traditional dishes is prepared to commemorate the occasion. Some well-liked dishes encompass:
– **Andhra Style Pulihora (Tamarind Rice)**: A zesty rice dish seasoned with tamarind and spices.
– **Ulli Garelu (Urad Dal Vada)**: Crunchy lentil fritters that are a cherished snack during festivities.
– **Bellam Garelu (Sweet Vada)**: Sweetened vadas crafted with jaggery, providing a delicious indulgence.
– **Semiya Payasam (Vermicelli Kheer)**: A sweet treat made from vermicelli, milk, and sugar, frequently adorned with nuts.
#### Recipes
For those interested in recreating these festive delicacies, here are links to the recipes:
– [Ugadi Pachadi Recipe](https://www.sailusfood.com/2006/03/30/ugadi-pachadi-andhra-delicacy-reflecting-different-flavors-of-life/)
– [Andhra Pulihora Recipe](https://www.sailusfood.com/2008/10/30/pulihora-andhra-tamarind-rice/)
– [Ulli Garelu Recipe](https://www.sailusfood.com/2006/02/25/ulli-garelu-medu-vadai-lentil-dumplings/)
– [Bellam Garelu Recipe](https://www.sailusfood.com/2007/02/13/bellam-garelu-jaggery-flavored-vadas/)
– [Semiya Payasam Recipe](https://www.sailusfood.com/2008/10/09/semiya-payasam-rava-laddu/)
#### Conclusion
Ugadi is a period of happiness, contemplation, and festivity. It unites families to celebrate traditions and enjoy delightful cuisine. As we embraced the Sri Hemalamba Nama Samvatsara in 2017, it was a time to value the past and anticipate a fruitful future. May this New Year bring joy, wellness, and triumph to everyone honoring Ugadi!