Watch video: Lezim, tradition and unity at Gudi Padwa Shobha Yatra in Nagpur, Maharashtra CM Fadnavis joins celebrations

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis performs rituals during Gudi Padwa celebrations in Nagpur on Thursday. PIC/ PTI

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis joined thousands of residents in Nagpur for the grand Gudi Padwa Shobha Yatra on Thursday, organised to mark the occasion. Addressing the gathering, he extended greetings to citizens across the country, reported ANI.

CM Fadnavis said, "This is the auspicious dawn of the Hindu New Year. The entire atmosphere is immersed in saffron, and the surroundings echo with chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram.'"

IN PHOTOS: Tiny tots from Mumbai playgroup lead procession on eve of Gudi Padwa in Lower Parel

11 hours agoPHOTO GALLERY

Extending his wishes, he added, "I extend heartfelt greetings to everyone on the occasion of the Hindu New Year. This Gudi symbolises the pride of India, and I hope that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it continues to rise higher every year."

Watch | Gudi Padwa 2026: CM Fadnavis participates in vibrant Nagpur events

‘Nagpur has turned Bhagwa': CM hails festive enthusiasm

Speaking to the media, Fadnavis expressed happiness at being part of the celebrations. "I am very happy to be present at this Shobha Yatra today, on the sacred day of Gudi Padwa. I extend my best wishes to all Indians. Under the leadership of Sandeep Joshi, a wonderful procession is organised every year in Nagpur. One can see the enthusiasm, Nagpur has turned ‘Bhagwa' (saffron), with people of all ages participating in traditional attire. It is a beautiful sight," he said, reported ANI.

Marathi actor Sai Tamhankar also joined the celebrations alongside the Chief Minister, reported ANI.

Festivities began with a vibrant shobha yatra in Nagpur, ushering in the Marathi New Year with enthusiasm and traditional fervour. The city witnessed colourful processions, cultural performances, and participation from people across all age groups.

Children's lezim performances energise Gudi Padwa celebrations

Children performed the traditional lezim dance, adding energy and colour to the celebrations. The procession featured various cultural elements, including lezim troupes, Varkari groups, and elaborate tableaux depicting historical and religious figures.

A local participant said the procession was organised by the Hindu Nav Varsh Aayojan Samaroh Samiti, Nagpur, to celebrate the Hindu, Indian, and Marathi New Year.

"One can see lezim and Varkari contingents, along with numerous tableaux. Lord Shri Ram and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj are also represented, making it a proud and joyous occasion for everyone," he said.

The celebrations highlighted unity, tradition, and cultural pride across Nagpur.

(With ANI inputs)