Villagers in Gujarat race cows to mark Gujarati New Year, fireworks erupt

On the Gujarati New Year, residents of several villages in Gujarat staged a traditional cow‑racing competition that drew large local crowds.\nParticipants released the cattle from enclosures and urged them to sprint along village lanes, while onlookers set off firecrackers, creating a festive yet noisy atmosphere.\nThe event, rooted in local customs that associate the start of the new year with prosperity and the sacredness of cattle, also involved the sprinkling of holy dust on the animals, believed to bring blessings.\nAuthorities noted that the celebrations were peaceful, though they reminded villagers to observe safety norms while handling fireworks.\nAlthough not officially sanctioned, the cow race remains a popular way for rural communities to mark the occasion, reflecting Gujarat’s blend of tradition and exuberant festivity.