Diwali 2025 Special: Animals celebrate their holiday on this day after Diwali, and are adorned with elaborate decorations..

In the Nimar region of Madhya Pradesh, the festive spirit of Diwali remains unabated even after it ends. Here, the animals take a holiday the day after Diwali. They are not made to work or plow the fields. Instead, they are decorated, fed delicacies, and taken on a tour of the village.

This tradition is observed on Padwa, the day after Diwali, during Govardhan Puja. This year, due to the Amavasya falling on two days, Padwa will be celebrated on October 22nd. It is believed that Lord Krishna was deeply attached to cows and cattle, so people adorn their animals with special ornaments to express their love and respect. Animals are worshipped in every village, offering them sweets and fodder as a blessing. Their horns are decorated with bright colors.

In the rural areas of Khargone district, every home on this day is unique. Bulls, cows, and goats used in the fields are bathed, and colorful designs are painted on their bodies. Their horns are decorated with bright colors. Children and women are also very enthusiastic about this event.

Animal Decoration Items
Preparations for animal decoration begin well in advance in the markets. Shops sell special decorative items called "animal jewelry." Shopkeeper Harcharan Singh Muchhal explains that three major ornaments are most commonly purchased: the "Machhwandi," which is woven from colorful threads and tied around the head; the "Kanda Ghungroo," which is worn around the neck like a necklace; and the "Morki," which is tied around the animal's mouth in a lattice design.

Animal Processions
Animal processions are also held in many places on this day. People take out their decorated animals accompanied by drums. Children adorn them with colorful ribbons and flowers. This tradition not only symbolizes devotion and culture but also reflects the intimate relationship between humans and animals.

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