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The word 'ougadi' means start of an era and it is the Telegu
celebration of the Hindu new year. The Telegu ethnic group
comes from central and southern areas of India, including
Andhra Pradesh which is the fourth largest state of India.
Other states in India call this day by other names. Ougadi
is celebrated widely in India and also in other countries
with large Hindu populations.
Unlike some other festivals you will not come across widespread
public celebrations of Ougadi in Mauritius. Instead, people
have a special meal with their family and friends and may
attend some cultural shows. Prayers are also said and special
food is eaten.
Generally, the day starts with religious rituals such as
a purifying wash before dawn, part of which involves special
oils and home-made pastes being massaged into the skin. Some
people may tie mango leaves together over their doorway as
the sons of Lord Shiva, including Ganesh, were said to be
fond of this fruit. Prayers and rituals are in honour of the
creator of the universe, Brahma, who is said to have started
creating the world on this day.
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