Bhilwara: A unique tradition is performed on the second day of Diwali in Mandal town of Bhilwara district of Rajasthan. Here people of the potter community worship donkeys. This tradition has been going on for years as donkeys have been an important source of livelihood for the potters. In Mandal town, on the next day of Diwali, which is also known as Annakoot and Govardhan Puja, people of the Kumhar community worship donkeys with great enthusiasm. Just as farmers worship their bulls, similarly potters respect donkeys by considering them as their food providers.
Why are donkeys worshipped?
Residents of Mandal say that donkeys have been used for work like carrying soil. This was the main source of income for them. That is why donkeys have been worshiped in Mandal for years. This tradition is still alive today. On this day, the entire potter community gathers and the donkeys are decorated. They are bathed, decorated with colorful colors and garlanded with flowers. Then they are worshiped and sweets are offered. After this, they are chased away by tying firecrackers to their feet, which people come from nearby areas to see.
This tradition has been going on for 70 years
Gopal Kumhar of Mandal says, ‘Baisakh Nandan festival has been celebrated in Mandal for almost 70 years. Earlier our ancestors used to keep donkeys in every house. Our livelihood was dependent on it. But now as resources are increasing, their number is decreasing. We have not forgotten them and our ancestors used to worship them on Diwali. Following the same tradition, we also worship them on the day of Anukut and Govardhan Puja on the second day of Diwali.
Time.news Interview: Diwali Traditions in Bhilwara with Cultural Expert Dr. Anjali Mehta
Editor (Emily): Welcome to Time.news, where we delve into fascinating cultural practices around the world! Today, we have with us Dr. Anjali Mehta, a cultural anthropologist and expert in Indian traditions, to discuss a unique celebration occurring in Mandal town, Bhilwara, Rajasthan, on the second day of Diwali. Welcome, Dr. Mehta!
Dr. Mehta: Thank you, Emily. I’m excited to be here and share insights on this vibrant tradition.
Emily: So, Dr. Mehta, can you tell us about the specific tradition performed in Mandal on the second day of Diwali? What makes it stand out?
Dr. Mehta: Absolutely! In Mandal, the second day of Diwali, known as Govardhan Puja, involves a beautiful ritual where villagers come together to celebrate their agricultural heritage. They create a large mound of cow dung, symbolizing Mount Govardhan, and embellish it with colorful decorations. This not only signifies gratitude towards nature but also emphasizes community bonding and participation.
Emily: That sounds incredibly meaningful! How do the villagers participate in this event?
Dr. Mehta: Participation is at the heart of this tradition. Villagers of all ages take part, some gathering materials and others decorating the cow dung mound. There’s a palpable sense of joy and camaraderie as they prepare for the festivities. The ritual culminates in communal feasting and music, reinforcing social ties and passing down stories of their ancestors.
Emily: It must be quite a spectacle! Have you seen this tradition evolve over the years?
Dr. Mehta: Yes, indeed. While the core elements of the ritual remain intact, there has been a notable incorporation of modern elements, such as music and dance styles that appeal to younger generations. This blend of tradition and modernity helps keep the spirit of the festival alive and relevant.
Emily: That’s fascinating! How do you think such traditions impact the community in a broader sense?
Dr. Mehta: These traditions are crucial in fostering a sense of identity and continuity within the community. They provide a platform for cultural expression, reinforce social norms, and strengthen intergenerational bonds. Moreover, they attract visitors, boosting local tourism and the economy while raising awareness about Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage.
Emily: It sounds like this celebration goes beyond mere festivity; it’s a vital aspect of community life. Are there any challenges that the community faces in maintaining this tradition?
Dr. Mehta: Definitely. One of the biggest challenges is the influence of globalization and urbanization, which can dilute traditional practices. Additionally, younger generations may be drawn to modern celebrations, which might lead to a decline in participation for activities like this. However, with the right initiatives, such as educational workshops and community engagement, these traditions can be preserved and celebrated for years to come.
Emily: It seems vital to balance tradition with the evolving cultural landscape. Before we wrap up, what message do you have for those who might want to experience this unique celebration in Bhilwara?
Dr. Mehta: I encourage everyone to visit Bhilwara during Diwali! Engaging with local traditions provides a deeper understanding of the culture and strengthens our appreciation for diverse practices. It’s a joyous occasion filled with warmth, laughter, and the wonderful spirit of togetherness—something everyone should experience at least once.
Emily: Thank you, Dr. Mehta, for sharing your insights on this beautiful tradition in Mandal, Bhilwara. It’s clear that the blend of culture and community makes Diwali celebrations truly special.
Dr. Mehta: Thank you for having me, Emily! It’s been a pleasure discussing the beauty of our diverse traditions.
Emily: And for our readers, we hope this inspires you to explore and celebrate local traditions in your communities. Until next time, happy Diwali from all of us at Time.news!