Halashashti

Halashashti

August-September; sixth day of waning half of Hindu month of Bhadrapada

This Hindu festival is often referred to as Balarama Shashti, after Krishna's older brother, Balarama, who was born on this day. Balarama's weapon was a plough, so it is also the day on which farmers in India worship the hala, or plough. They apply powdered rice and turmeric to the plough's iron blade and decorate it with flowers. A small piece of ground is sanctified and plastered with cow dung, then a small pool of water is dug in the middle and branches of plum, fig, and other fruit trees are planted there. Some women fast all day in the belief that it will ensure happiness, prosperity, and longevity to their sons. When the fast is broken in the evening, there is a great feast and celebration.

SOURCES:
FolkWrldHol-1999, p. 514
RelHolCal-2004, p. 147