Why is oil bath necessary on Hindu New Year? Know the religious importance of Abhyanga bath and 5 major health benefits:

News India Live, Digital Desk: Hindu New Year i.e. Vikram Samvat 2083 It is going to start from 19th March 2026. On this day in the entire country including Maharashtra and Goa Gudi Padwa It is celebrated with great enthusiasm. There is an ancient tradition of taking ‘Abhyanga Snan’ (bath followed by oil massage) at sunrise on this day. It is believed that taking bath as per the rituals on this day not only destroys the sins but also keeps the person free from diseases throughout the year.

Gudi Padwa 2026: Date and auspicious time Gudi Padwa festival in the year 2026 March 19, Thursday Will be celebrated.

Pratipada start date: From 18th March 2026, 08:26 PM.

Pratipada date ends: By 19 March 2026, 06:53 pm.

Abhyanga bath time: 19 March from 06:14 am to 06:52 am (at the time of sunrise).

Why is oil bath done? According to religious mythology, on the day of Gudi Padwa, Goddess Lakshmi and in water Mother Ganga resides in. By applying scented oil (especially sesame oil) on the body and taking bath before sunrise, one gets the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and poverty is removed. According to Brahma Purana, on this day Lord Brahma created the universe, hence this holy bath infuses new energy.

It is also a boon for health: 5 main benefits

Skin improvement: Use of medicated oils removes impurities from the skin and gives it a natural glow.

Relief from stress: Oil massage and bath in the morning calms the nervous system and reduces mental stress.

Balance of Vata-Pitta: According to Ayurveda, during the month of Chaitra, the effect of Vata increases in the body, which is balanced by oil bath.

Blood Circulation: Massage improves blood circulation in the body, which relieves fatigue.

Disease Immunity: This tradition prepares the body to fight diseases during the change of seasons.

Consumption of ‘Neem’ is mandatory after bathing. There is a tradition of eating a mixture of soft neem leaves, jaggery and tamarind after bathing on Gudi Padwa. It works to detox the body with a balance of bitterness and sweetness.