In Maharashtra and Gujarat, Vasu Baras marks the official start of the Diwali festival celebrations, falling one day before Dhanteras. Devotees worship the cow (Gau Mata) and her calf (Vatsa) to express gratitude for their nurturing role in human life.Cows and calves are bathed, adorned with turmeric, kumkum, and flowers, and fed special dishes typically made of wheat products or sweet delicacies (go-gras).