In parts of rural Maharashtra, bullock cart races have, for long, been a source of recreation and entertainment. Bullock races last around 60 seconds and ranking position is depends upon how long your pair of bulls covered in that 60 seconds. For many people, it is a status symbol, while many farmers take it up as a hobby, no betting involved in these races held in village fairs.

History: These events were also an essential feature of the Ganapati festival and the annual village festival called ‘Jatra’. Organising the race is a status symbol and organisers argue that the sport was being held for centuries and was an integral part of the culture of the state and is an age old parampara (tradition).” They keep these animals specifically for races, as a hobby, and not a commercial activity. If the races are banned, these species of bullocks (Khilar) will be in danger, is the argument.