Keonjhar: While the rest of India lights up the night sky with diyas, crackers, and sweets during Diwali, the Kudumi community in Odisha’s Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj districts celebrates the festival in an entirely different light — one that glows with reverence, gratitude, and a deep connection to nature.

In Kenduapada, a picturesque Kudumi-dominated village in Ghatagaon block of Keonjhar, Diwali is not just a festival of lights but a celebration of the sacred bond between humans and cattle. Here, the festival stretches over three days of rituals, joy, and devotion — all centred around the worship of cows, considered symbols of prosperity and divinity.

The festivities begin much before the first lamp is lit. About ten days ahead of Diwali, villagers start plastering their houses with fres

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