<P> Neem leaf or bark is considered an effective pitta pacifier because of its bitter taste . Hence, it is traditionally recommended during early summer in Ayurveda (that is, the month of Chaitra as per the Hindu Calendar which usually falls in the month of March--April). </P> <P> In the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana, Neem flowers are very popular for their use in' Ugadi Pachhadi' (soup - like pickle), which is made on Ugadi day . In Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana, a small amount of Neem and Jaggery (Bevu - Bella) is consumed on Ugadi day, the Telugu and Kannada new year, indicating that one should take both bitter and sweet things in life, joy and sorrow . </P> <P> During Gudi Padva, which is the New Year in the state of Maharashtra, the ancient practice of drinking a small quantity of neem juice or paste on that day, before starting festivities, is found . As in many Hindu festivals and their association with some food to avoid negative side - effects of the season or change of seasons, neem juice is associated with Gudi Padva to remind people to use it during that particular month or season to pacify summer pitta . </P> <P> In Tamil Nadu during the summer months of April to June, the Mariamman temple festival is a thousand - year - old tradition . The Neem leaves and flowers are the most important part of the Mariamman festival . The statue of the goddess Mariamman will be garlanded with Neem leaves and flowers . During most occasions of celebrations and weddings the people of Tamil Nadu adorn their surroundings with the Neem leaves and flowers as a form of decoration and also to ward off evil spirits and infections . </P>

Which indian festival from the state of maharashtra is associated with the neem juice