Large public festivals may be on hold for now, but that didn’t stop the rescued and retired residents of Animal Rahat’s sanctuary from having a fun and festive Bendur celebration.

Rescued bullock Lakhan eats from a dish of treats held by an Animal Rahat sanctuary staff member.

Rescued camel Bhuriya snacks on fresh cut bananas offered by a sanctuary caregiver.

Bendur (also known as Bail Pola) honors bullocks, but Animal Rahat staff made sure that all the sanctuary residents participated in the party.

Rescued horse Pratap nibbles at a plate of cut bananas held by one sanctuary caregiver while another staffer adjusts his flower garland.

This rescued sheep enjoys the fresh fruit that's part of her first-ever Bendur celebration.

There were edible flower garlands and other tasty treats (like fresh fruit) for everyone!

This retired bullock savors the jaggery that his caregiver is feeding him.

Lalu, a rescued buffalo, gobbles up the festive treats that a sanctuary worker offers him on a large dish.

Afzal, a rescued camel, "smiles" as his caregiver offers him another bite of jaggery.

Providing a peaceful retirement and ensuring that everyone’s individual needs are met are the sanctuary’s priorities, but the caregivers know it’s also important to take time to honor and celebrate the residents, too. And after a life spent laboring and enduring abuse or trying to survive on the streets after being orphaned or abandoned, the animals who call the sanctuary home deserve lots of special attention—and clearly, they appreciate it!

Rescued dog Rossy grins in her festive marigold garland.