Diwali celebrations last through five days Dhanteras to Bhaiduj and in any places of India like Maharashtra, Gujarat it is celebrated a day prior on Dhan Teras. Dhan Teras is also celebrated as Vasu Baras and is marked as Diwali festival celebration. Vasu Baras or Bagh Baras (Govatsa) is dedicated to worship cow and calves. In India the cow represents motherhood. According to the Hindu lunar month of Ashvin, Ashvin Krushna Dwadashi is the Twelfth day of the dark fortnight.
This occasion is also known as birth fulfillment day. Believers worship cow and calve for the fulfillment of wishes in this birth and as well as for next several births ahead and also to live in heaven after death. There is specific method to worship on this day. Only married women (soubhagyavatis) serves one meal to cow which has a calf. This tradition has to be performed in the morning or evening. Only wheat item are given to cows and calves after worship.
People who participate in Govatsa Dwadashi restrain from eating any wheat and milk products during the day. Vasubaras, Govatsa Dwadashi is also observed as Nandini Vrat. Nandini is known for divine cow in Hinduism. In Gujarat, it is celebrated by playing game of Vagh (tiger) and cow, person wear cloths of tiger skin and chase for person who wear cloths of cow, this ritual is followed by Dhodia tribe.
