They unite people, thus strenghtening the bonds of the family and community, providing relief from daily routine, and providing major source of recreation. Holidays are times of joyous social activity involving a display of best in dress and cooking. Many ancient rites have been carried over to present time and exist comfortably with contemporary rituals and secular observances. Maharashtrians have many festivals to celebrate with each having a special reason to celebrate. This marks the beginning of Hindu calendar.
People erect sticks outside their house which is tied with a cloth and some sweets.
The main Jain Festival of the year. He achieved enlightenment and nirvana on the same date. People usually fast on this day. This tradition started long ago when farmers honored snakes for protecting their farms from crop-eating pests. Brothers and sisters exchange gifts, the sister tying a thread as a rakhi , a symbolic bond, to her brother's wrist and brother vowing her protection.