Moniya tradition observed in Bundelkhand villages after Diwali

In Bundelkhand, participants observe the Moniya tradition after Diwali. They take a vow to visit the boundaries of five, seven or twelve villages, then return to their starting point. The observance can continue for three days when the festival calendar includes two days of Parama.

Participants wear white clothes, ankle bells, peacock feathers and flower garlands. They remain silent until completing their village circuit and observe a fast, either eating fruit or abstaining from food.

At the start, participants pass beneath a cow. They carry prasad to distribute along the route. The tradition is observed for 12 years, followed by a further year described as interest on the vow.