People sing devotional songs in praise of Rama and rock images of him in cradles to celebrate his birth. Rathyatras or chariot processions of Rama, his wife Sita, brother Lakshmana and devotee Hanuman, are taken out from many temples. Prayers are offered in the mosques and special delicacies are prepared and served among family and friends on the occasion. The birth anniversary of the 24 th Tirthankara of the Jains, Mahavir, the founder of Jainism, is celebrated by the Jain community. Lectures are held to preach the path of virtue.
People meditate and offer prayers.
Donations are collected to save the cows from slaughter. Pilgrims from all parts of the country visit the ancient Jain shrines at Girnar and Palitana in Gujarat, on this day. A festival where elephants are the centre of attraction. They stride majestically parading their decorated trunks and tusks. The festival begins with a procession of elephants, camels and horses, followed by lively folk dancers at their entertaining best.