📅 Festival Details at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival Name | Pola |
| Date | 11 September 2026 |
| Day | Friday |
| Hindu Month | Bhadrapada |
| Paksha | Krishna Paksha |
| Tithi | Amavasya |
| Observed In | Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, MP, Telangana |
| Focus | Bulls, agriculture, gratitude |
| Nature | Folk & agrarian festival |
🌾 What is Pola Festival?
Pola is a traditional agrarian festival celebrated mainly in Maharashtra and Central India, dedicated to the worship of bulls, who are considered the backbone of traditional farming.
It is observed on Bhadrapada Amavasya, immediately after the monsoon sowing season, as a mark of gratitude toward farm animals for their hard work throughout the year.
🐂 Religious & Cultural Significance
In Indian tradition:
- Bulls symbolize strength, fertility, and prosperity
- Agriculture is considered sacred work (Krishi Dharma)
On Pola:
- Bulls are given a day of rest
- Farmers thank them for ploughing and farming labor
- No agricultural work is done using bulls
The festival reflects harmony between humans, animals, and nature.
🛕 Pola Puja & Rituals
🪔 Morning Preparations
- Bulls are bathed and cleaned.
- Horns are painted and decorated.
- Colorful cloth, bells, and garlands are tied.
- Rangoli is drawn at cowshed entrances.
🌼 Worship Ceremony
- Apply turmeric and vermilion on bulls.
- Offer fodder, jaggery, and grains.
- Perform aarti.
- Seek blessings for good harvest and prosperity.
🎉 Village Celebrations & Traditions
- Bull processions through villages
- Children play traditional games
- Decorative bullock carts
- Folk music and dances
In some regions, Pola toys are made for children as symbolic representation.
🌍 Regional Variations
| Region | Local Name / Practice |
|---|---|
| Maharashtra | Pola |
| Telangana | Pola Amavasya |
| Chhattisgarh | Pola |
| Madhya Pradesh | Bail Pola |
🌱 Agricultural Importance of Pola
Pola marks:
- End of heavy farming activity
- Transition into crop growth phase
- A pause for farmers and animals
It promotes:
- Respect for animals
- Sustainable farming values
- Community bonding
🧘 Spiritual & Ethical Message
Pola teaches:
- Gratitude towards nature
- Non-exploitation of animals
- Living in balance with environment
It aligns closely with the philosophy of Sanatan Dharma.
❓ Short FAQ – Pola Festival
Q1. When is Pola celebrated in 2026?
Pola will be observed on 11 September 2026 (Friday).
Q2. Why are bulls worshipped on Pola?
Bulls play a crucial role in traditional agriculture and symbolize strength and prosperity.
Q3. Is Pola a public holiday?
It is a regional holiday in rural and farming communities.
Q4. Is farming work done on Pola day?
No, bulls are given complete rest on this day.
Q5. Is Pola connected to any deity?
It is a folk festival rooted in gratitude rather than formal deity worship.
Panchang Official