Nagpur: With the rising sun on Thursday, September 14, farmers in Nagpur came together to celebrate the Pola festival, a day dedicated to expressing gratitude to the bulls and oxen that play an indispensable role in farming and agriculture. This traditional festival brought forth a vibrant display of the deep bond between humans and their animal companions.
The Pola festival commenced as farmers welcomed the day by bathing their loyal bulls with utmost care and affection. These four-legged companions, often referred to as “bails,” were then adorned with an array of ornaments and vibrant shawls. Their horns were meticulously painted in flashy colors, and their necks were draped with garlands of vividly colored flowers. The festive atmosphere enveloped the farmsteads as the bulls were readied for a special procession.
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Saturday 05 Oct. 2024
As part of the Pola festival, a grand procession unfolded, featuring the decorated bulls. Accompanied by the rhythmic beats of dhol tasha and spirited dancing, the bulls became the centre of attention. This spectacle served as a heartwarming gesture of gratitude from farmers to their invaluable animal companions. The celebration allowed farmers to acknowledge the relentless support and hard work their bulls provide throughout the year.
On this auspicious day, hundreds of people joined in the festivities, offering worship and delicacies to the revered bulls. Among the delectable offerings, Puran Poli, a traditional Maharashtrian sweet, took centre stage, delighting both humans and their bovine counterparts.
Pola is a thanksgiving festival deeply rooted in Maharashtrian culture, celebrated primarily by farmers. It serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role that bulls and oxen play in agriculture and farming activities. These animals are instrumental in plowing fields, transporting goods, and assisting farmers in their daily toil.
In preparation for the festival, bulls receive special attention. They are bathed, massaged with oils to relax their muscles, and adorned with shawls, bells, and colourful flowers. Their horns are adorned with vibrant hues, and they are provided with new reins and ropes, symbolizing a fresh start for the hardworking animals. The grand procession with the decorated bulls and oxen, set against the backdrop of music and dancing, embodies the spirit of Pola and showcases the enduring bond between humans and their bovine companions.
