Happy Gudi Padwa!

See how Mumbaiites brought in the New Year. Photographs by Rajesh Karkera/Rediff.com

People from Maharashtra celebrate the Hindu New Year as Gudi Padwa.

On this day, they hoist a gudi (an inverted kalash wrapped in bright zari cloth) in front of their homes, get dressed in colourful, traditional attires and feast on sumptuous preparations.

In some parts of the state, women and men also take part in processions.

IMAGE: A group of women in colour co-ordinated saris take part in the procession near Mahim, Mumbai.

IMAGE: They follow a mini truck with a decorated bust of Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji.

IMAGE: The kids onboard the truck are treated to snacks on the way.

IMAGE: This young girl is guarding a carton of food supplies.

IMAGE: A small brass band, also in coloured uniforms keeps the group entertained with their music.

IMAGE: The girls are dressed in traditional nauvari (nine-yard) saris.

IMAGE: At the tail of the procession, a police van keeps them company, should the need arise.

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