Pronunciation: [ɡjˈuːdɪ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "gudi" can be a bit confusing, as it's not a commonly used word in English. However, it can be pronounced as /ɡuːdi/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "g" is pronounced as a hard "g," similar to the "g" in "goose." The "u" is pronounced as the long "oo" sound, like in "food." The "d" is pronounced as a the voiced "d" sound like in "day," and the "i" is pronounced as the long "ee" sound, as in "see."
Gudi is a noun that refers to a traditional flag hoisted on the eve of Gudhi Padwa, a Hindu festival celebrated in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Goa. The term "gudi" is derived from the Sanskrit word "dwaja," meaning flag or banner. The gudi is typically made by tying a bright green or yellow cloth to the top of a long bamboo stick, which is then decorated with neem leaves, marigold flowers, and sugar crystals. Sometimes, a copper or silver pot is inverted and placed over the cloth to resemble a crown.
The gudi holds great significance in the celebration of Gudhi Padwa as it symbolizes good luck, victory, and prosperity. It is believed to protect the household from evil spirits and ensure the well-being of the family throughout the year. The act of raising the gudi is considered auspicious, and it is hoisted on the balconies or rooftops of houses during the festival.
The gudi is traditionally displayed on the first day of the Hindu lunar calendar to mark the beginning of the new year. People also participate in various festivities, including worshiping Lord Brahma and offering prayers for a prosperous year ahead. Gudhi Padwa is a time of joy and renewal, and the gudi stands as a proud emblem of hope, resilience, and good fortune.
The word "gudi" has its origins in Sanskrit, an ancient language of India. In Sanskrit, it is spelled as "गुड़ि" (pronounced as "goo-ri"). The term "gudi" is derived from the Sanskrit word "gud" (गुड़), which means "sugar" or "jaggery". Over time, the meaning of "gudi" expanded beyond just sugar, and it came to refer to a flag-like object used as a symbol of victory, prosperity, and good fortune. In the context of the Hindu festival of Gudi Padwa, a "gudi" refers to a decorated pole with a bright green or yellow cloth, mango leaves, and sometimes a metal vessel atop it, which is traditionally hoisted outside homes to celebrate the New Year according to the Hindu calendar.
