Gudi Padwa 2025: Why Are Neem and Jaggery Served As Prasad on Marathi New Year? 5 Health Benefits of Consuming the Bitter and Sweet Duo
Gudi Padwa 2025 will be observed on Sunday, March 30. It is a Hindu New Year festival, celebrated with great enthusiasm in Maharashtra and other parts of India. Falling on the first day of Chaitra month, it marks the arrival of spring and the harvest season. The festival is associated with new beginnings, prosperity, and victory, symbolised by the hoisting of the Gudi; a decorated flag representing success and positivity. Families celebrate by making rangoli, preparing festive dishes, and performing rituals, embracing the spirit of renewal and joy. One of the traditions that individuals follow is having neem and jaggery, which is served as prasad on Marathi New Year. In this article, find out the health benefits of consuming the bitter and sweet combination. Gudi Padwa 2025 Date in Maharashtra: When Is Marathi New Year?
Eating a mixture of neem leaves and jaggery on Gudi Padwa holds deep symbolic and health significance. The bitter neem represents the challenges and struggles of life, while the sweet jaggery symbolises happiness and success. Consuming them together is a reminder to accept both joy and hardships with a balanced perspective. Additionally, neem is known for its medicinal properties, aiding digestion and boosting immunity, making it a meaningful and healthful ritual to start the new year. As you observe Gudi Padwa 2025, here are the health benefits of neem and jaggery that you must know on this day. Indian New Year 2025 Calendar Dates: Guide to Hindu and Other State-Wise Regional Festivals and New Year’s Days.
1. Boosts Immunity: Neem’s antibacterial and antiviral properties help strengthen the immune system, while jaggery provides essential minerals to keep the body healthy.
2. Aids Digestion: Neem helps cleanse the digestive system, and jaggery acts as a natural digestive aid, preventing acidity and bloating.
3. Detoxifies the Body: Neem purifies the blood and removes toxins, while jaggery helps flush out impurities and supports liver function.
4. Balances Blood Sugar Levels: Neem helps regulate blood sugar, and jaggery provides a natural energy boost without causing sudden sugar spikes.
5. Improves Skin and Hair Health: Neem’s antibacterial properties help fight acne and skin infections, while jaggery’s iron content promotes healthy skin and hair.
Consuming neem and jaggery on Gudi Padwa is a tradition that carries both symbolic and health benefits. It teaches us to embrace both bitter and sweet moments in life while also providing immunity-boosting, detoxifying, and digestive advantages. This simple yet powerful ritual ensures a healthy start to the New Year, reinforcing the connection between cultural wisdom and well-being. Wishing everyone Happy Gudi Padwa 2025!
(The above story first appeared on Today News 24 on Mar 23, 2025 10:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website todaynews24.top).
