### Ugadi Telugu New Year 2017
Ugadi, referred to as Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, signifies the commencement of the New Year for the residents of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. In 2017, Ugadi was observed on March 29th, marking the onset of the Sri Hemalamba Nama Samvatsara, a year anticipated to bestow prosperity and joy.
#### Significance of Ugadi
Ugadi is more than just a New Year’s celebration; it represents a festival that commemorates the arrival of spring and the conclusion of winter. This period is a time for rejuvenation and renewal, both in the environment and in personal lives. The festival is rich in cultural and spiritual significance, with families partaking in various customs and traditions to embrace the New Year with joy and hope.
#### Traditional Celebrations
The festivities of Ugadi are characterized by numerous customs, including the creation of special dishes. One of the key dishes is **Ugadi Pachadi**, a distinct preparation that melds six different flavors—sweet, sour, salty, bitter, spicy, and tangy—representing the diverse experiences of life. Each component of Ugadi Pachadi symbolizes a unique facet of life, making it a meaningful dish for the occasion.
Alongside Ugadi Pachadi, families whip up various traditional delicacies such as:
– **Andhra Style Pulihora (Tamarind Rice)**
– **Ulli Garelu (Urad Dal Vada)**
– **Bellam Garelu (Sweet Vada)**
– **Semiya Payasam (Vermicelli Kheer)**
These dishes are not only tasty but also carry cultural importance, often being shared among relatives and friends during the celebrations.
#### Recipes to Try
For those eager to observe Ugadi with traditional tastes, here are some recipes that embody the spirit of the festival:
1. [Ugadi Pachadi Recipe](https://www.sailusfood.com/2006/03/30/ugadi-pachadi-andhra-delicacy-reflecting-different-flavors-of-life/)
2. [Andhra Pulihora Recipe](https://www.sailusfood.com/2008/10/30/pulihora-andhra-tamarind-rice/)
3. [Ulli Garelu Recipe](https://www.sailusfood.com/2006/02/25/ulli-garelu-medu-vadai-lentil-dumplings/)
4. [Bellam Garelu Recipe](https://www.sailusfood.com/2007/02/13/bellam-garelu-jaggery-flavored-vadas/)
5. [Semiya Payasam Recipe](https://www.sailusfood.com/2008/10/09/semiya-payasam-rava-laddu/)
#### Conclusion
Ugadi is an opportunity for families to unite, celebrate, and contemplate the past year while anticipating the future. The rich customs, delectable cuisine, and lively celebrations render Ugadi a beloved festival within the Telugu community. As we welcomed the Sri Hemalamba Nama Samvatsara in 2017, it was a moment to cherish new beginnings and the hope of a bountiful year to come.