Krishna Janmashtami 2017: Know the significance of Dahi Handi

The famous Dahi Handi celebration is also known as Gopalakala, in Maharashtra, and is based on this tale of Lord Krishna. This is a one-day event, on which the young troop of boys, make a human pyramid, to fetch the Handi which is filled with milk, curd, butter, fruits and water.

The Significance of Janmashtami

Janmashtami is celebrated on the eighth day of the Hindu month of Shravan as the birthday of Lord Krishna, considered Lord Vishnu's incarnation. Devotees fast and pray at midnight, the time when the Lord was born.

What is Dahi Handi?

Dahi Handi is celbrated a day after the birth of Lord Krishna. According to Hindu mythology, Krishna and his friends used to form human pyramids to break pots hung from the ceilings of neighbourhood houses, in order to steal curd and butter in Vrindavan.

How is it celebrated?

With nearly 1,000 mandals and Govinda brigades, Mumbai is one of the biggest centres for ‘Dahi Handi' celebrations on Janmashtami. On this day, youngsters, called govindas, attempt to break the dahi handi by forming a human pyramids.

Different names:

In Gujarat and Dwarka, dahi handi is called Makhan Handi - an earthen pot filled with yogurt, ghee, almonds and nuts. It is called Uriadi in Tamil Nadu.

Latest judgment on Dahi Handi

The Bombay High Court on 7 August declined to restrict the height of Dahi Handis but ordered that children below 14 years would not be permitted to take part as ‘Govindas'.

Safety measures for those participating

If you are one of the Govindas who will be participating in Dahi Handi ensure you have a helmet and knee cap. The state has promised to take steps such as providing cushion layers, safety nets and chest guards.

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