Bull Cart Race Event

Bullock cart racing in Alibag Taluka, Maharashtra, is a cultural activity that takes place from November to May. It is particularly popular among the farming community in the region. The race is organized by local bullock cart owners and farmers in their respective villages. During the Vaikunth Chaturdashi Yatra at Awas, the bullock cart owners pay their respects to Shri Nageshwar. This racing tradition, known as Bailgada Sharyat, has been practiced by farmers in Konkan, western Maharashtra, and Marathwada for the past 450 years. The race involves four incredibly fast bulls pulling the cart for a distance of 350-450 feet on a racing track. The team with the highest speed is declared the winner. Each team takes turns dashing across the track, with most teams finishing the race in around 10-15 seconds. It requires a strong grip, excellent balance, and remarkable bravery to hold on to the carts as the bulls rush towards the finish line. The atmosphere is filled with clouds of dust and loud cheers, creating an electrifying energy. Organizing these races is no small task. The racing track or Ghat needs to be meticulously prepared days in advance. Veterinarians are brought in to ensure that the bulls are in optimal physical condition. These cattle races were traditionally a part of the Jatras or village fairs held between Makar Sankranti and the Monsoon months when farmers had less work in the fields. Sometimes, the races are organized as standalone events rather than being a part of a village fair. The funds raised from these races are utilized for the welfare of the village and the restoration of local temples. Thus, cattle racing in India serves as both an adventure sport and a means to support social causes.