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Pola is a traditional festival celebrated mainly in Maharashtra to honor bulls for their important role in agriculture. In 2026, Pola will be celebrated on Friday, 11 September in Maharashtra.
The festival is especially meaningful for farming communities, as bulls have traditionally helped farmers with ploughing and other agricultural activities.

On Pola, farmers give their bulls a special bath, decorate them with colorful ornaments and accessories, and offer prayers. The animals are also given special food as a gesture of gratitude and respect.

One of the highlights of the festival is the evening procession, where beautifully decorated bulls are taken through the village. In some places, fairs, traditional music, dancing, and various competitions are also organized. Families prepare traditional Maharashtrian dishes and celebrate the occasion together.

Pola is observed on Pithori Amavasya, the new moon day during the month of Shravan. The festival represents the close relationship between farmers, animals, and agriculture, while giving people an opportunity to express their gratitude toward the animals that have supported farming for generations.

Have you ever witnessed a Pola celebration in a Maharashtra village?