Celebrating Ougadi in Mauritius

Today, 23 March 2012, Mauritius celebrates Ougadi (or Ugadi or Yugadi). This holiday is the Telugu New Year. A traditional occasion, people in Mauritius normally celebrate by enjoying a special meal with family and friends and attending cultural shows.

As a New Year, it marks the creation of the universe for the Telugu people, who will often include a purifying wash with saffron and perfumed oil before sunrise in honor of the day. The meals with family are specially prepared and Indian cakes and cookies are shared. Special prayers are sent to Brahma, the creator of the universe, and some will hang mango leaves over their doorways for the sons of Lord Shiva.

Have a Happy Ougadi and a fresh start to the New Year!