Rajasthani and Gujarati tribals gathered in large numbers at the banks of Lake Nakki on Vaisakhi Poornima or Buddh Poornima on Monday. The tribals of the two states gather at the lake that holds mythological significance, to keep a date with two traditions that are centuries old.

The full moon night that coincides with the Hindu month of Vaishakh is auspicious for the tribals, and a fair is held at Nakki lake in Mt Abu to celebrate that. The air resonates with sounds of flutes and drums as two generations— the young and the old — participate enthusiastically in the rituals.

The Taaran Vivaah (pull by the hand and marry) tradition is a major attraction among the tribal youth as they get to pick a life partner of their choice.

Young girls in traditional attire and silver jewellery had collected at the banks of the lake in groups. They were singing folk songs as they cast shy glances at the male gathering. The boys in turn were trying to impress them with their physique and material assets. With changing times, motorbikes, cellphones and sunglasses have become items of display.

"It is a tradition that is followed by the tribals. The youth choose their partners, and the couple elopes to the forests, only to return after several days. The community elders then gather and solemnise their marriage.

"As per tradition, the boy pulls the girl by her hand before they leave. No one stops the couple. This ancient tradition gives the girl a right to choose her life partner — something that even emancipated communities do not agree to," said Prabhu Ram Garasia, Patwari, Mt Abu.

The older generation observes this day by bidding farewell to departed souls. "Anyone who has died in the past one year is given a traditional farewell on this day. The nails or ashes of the departed person are brought in a leaf and immersed in the lake. I have come to perform this ritual for my mother," said Ramlal Narora, a local pradhan.

In case there is no nail, a symbolic silver piece in the shape of a nail is used.

Garasia and Bheel-Mena tribals belonging to southwest Rajasthan and adjoining districts of Gujarat.