Jatra (Maharashtra)

Jatra or Urus are annual festivals held in a large number of villages in the Indian state of Maharashtra during the months of January to May.^[1] These may be in honour of the village Hindu deity (Gram devta) or the tomb (dargah) of a local Sufi pir.^[2] In some instances, the holy man in the tomb is revered under different names by Hindus and Muslims.^[3] Apart from religious observations, celebrations may include bullock-cart racing, kabbadi, wrestling tournaments, a fair and entertainment such as a lavani/tamasha show by travelling dance troupes.^[4] A number of families eat meat preparations only during this period. In some villages, women are given a break from cooking and other household chores by their menfolk.^[5]