Imagine our surprise when we saw this beautiful cow dressed up to the nines as we were on our way to meet with one of our suppliers. We simply had to stop and find out what was going on.

The driver of our taxi explained that Hindus have a “cow holiday” called Gopastami when all cows — even the ones left to wander through busy streets and rural villages — are washed and dressed up with flowers. The women decorating the cow could not have been more welcoming and friendly.

We later learnt that the cows are not worshipped as such and are not considered to be a God but they are considered to be a sacred symbol of life that should be protected and revered. To harm a cow or kill a cow — especially for food — is considered taboo by most Hindus. The pun ‘Holy Cow’ has arisen from this religious belief of Hindus and everything coming from the cow is considered to be holy even cow dung!

Smiles and flowers – what a wonderful start to the day.