Nagpur: Tuesday, September 3, was the Children’s Day Out in Nagpur! The city came alive with the sounds of laughter and joy as children took centre stage in the vibrant celebration of Tanha Pola. This unique festival, observed the day after Pola, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Nagpur and the Vidarbha region.
Thousands of children, dressed in colourful and festive attire, paraded through the streets of Nagpur with their beautifully decorated wooden bulls. The air was filled with excitement and the joyous spirit of the festival as families and communities came together to partake in this age-old tradition.
Tanha Pola, a festival that honours the vital role of bulls in agriculture, has been a cherished tradition for over two centuries. This year marked the 235th anniversary of this celebration, continuing a legacy that began in 1789.
The origins of Tanha Pola trace back to the second king of Nagpur, Shrimant Raje Raghuji Maharaj Bhonsale. In 1789, recognizing the significance of bulls in rural life, the king introduced the concept of wooden bulls to educate young cowherds about the importance of these animals. These wooden bulls were meticulously crafted and adorned to resemble their real counterparts and were worshipped with deep reverence.
The Tanha Pola celebrations involve a series of rituals steeped in tradition. A symbolic gate, adorned with treats such as jalebis, fruits, chocolates, and biscuits, was erected as part of the festivities. A pyre made of mango wood was lit, and following a puja, a traditional ritual of breaking the gate was performed. The festivities continued with the distribution of food, fruits, and money to the participating children, creating an atmosphere of communal harmony and joy.
The tradition of Tanha Pola has been passed down through generations, with many localities in Nagpur adopting and preserving the custom. On this special day, various neighborhoods hosted vibrant competitions showcasing the beautifully decorated wooden bulls, further enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Children participated in these competitions with great enthusiasm, displaying their creativity in both bull decoration and fancy dress. Winners were awarded exciting prizes, ranging from bicycles to cash rewards, adding an extra layer of excitement to the celebrations.
The highlight of Tanha Pola was the grand celebration at the Senior Bhonsala Palace. The event was graced by the presence of the current king of Nagpur, Shrimant Mudhoji Raje Bhonsale, who added a royal touch to the proceedings. The king distributed prizes and gifts to the children, acknowledging their creativity and dedication to upholding this treasured tradition.
In addition to the grand festivities at the Senior Bhonsala Palace, households across Nagpur also embraced the spirit of Tanha Pola. Children proudly took their wooden bulls on neighborhood tours, visiting relatives and friends. As a gesture of blessing and appreciation, well-wishers bestowed gifts and cash upon the children– a practice known as ‘bozara’ in the Vidarbha region. This unique custom adds a personal and intimate touch to the celebrations, fostering a deep sense of community and shared joy.
Tanha Pola is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of culture, tradition, and the enduring bonds that tie communities together in Nagpur. As the children of Nagpur continue to carry this tradition forward, the rich cultural heritage of the region is preserved and celebrated with each passing year.
