Gudi Padwa, the day celebrated as the beginning of the new year all over Maharashtra was marked by a resolve to end corruption at Ralegan Siddhi, social activist Anna Hazare's hometown in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district.
In solidarity with the India against Corruption movement that is taking momentum across the country, 80 percent of the town's residents erected a ‘gudi' with a black cloth instead of the traditional red.
The movement launched by Anna Hazare urged the government to pass the Jan Lokpal Bill, drafted by RTI activist Arvind Kejriwal and Karnataka Lokayukta Santosh Hegde, to be able to check corruption in every State.
“The gudi outside every home symbolises a new beginning, and we want to start a life without corruption. Anna is undertaking a historic task tomorrow [Tuesday] by starting an indefinite fast. We want to show our support to the cause,” said Sanjay Pathade, a teacher.
A gram sabha was convened last week, where everyone was asked to erect the black gudi.
Those who did not have a black cloth did not erect a gudi at all, Mr. Pathade told The Hindu .
“There was no excitement over the festival, but the resolution is firm in people's minds. Anna has said he will not return without getting the Bill passed and we extend our whole-hearted support,” Mr. Pathade said.
