Dahi Handi is a popular event celebrated in the cities of Maharashtra and Goa. This tradition is observed the day after Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Gokulashtami, which marks the birth of Lord Krishna. The event is also referred to as Gopalakala in Maharashtra.
Date and Time
In 2024, Dahi Handi will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 27. Krishna Janmashtami is on Monday, August 26, with the Ashtami Tithi beginning from 3:39 AM on August 26 and ending at 2:19 AM on August 27. The ISKCON Janmashtami will also be observed on August 26.
Significance of Dahi Handi
The Dahi Handi celebration commemorates an event from the childhood of Lord Krishna. According to the legend, young Krishna had a great fondness for curd and butter. As He grew, His love for these dairy products only increased, leading Him and His friends to mischievously steal them from the neighbourhood homes.
To protect their milk products, the women of the village began hanging pots of curd and butter from the ceilings, hoping to keep them out of Krishna's reach. However, Krishna and His friends devised a clever solution: they formed a human pyramid to reach the pots, which were now beyond the grasp of their small hands. This playful act has since become a part of Indian folklore and is re-enacted annually during Janmashtami by groups of young boys.
The Modern Celebration
Today, Dahi Handi has evolved into a competitive sport, particularly in Mumbai. Teams, often referred to as "Govindas," compete to form the highest and most stable human pyramids to reach and break the Handi, which is suspended high in the air, sometimes several storeys above the ground. To make the task even more challenging, the women representing the female cowherds from the tale try to prevent the pyramid formation by throwing water or slippery liquids on the participants.
The event has gained significant popularity over the years, with hundreds of teams participating. It has also attracted celebrities who help promote the event. In recent times, the prize money for winning teams has reached up to one crore rupees (10 million Indian Rupees).
The event is not only a test of physical strength and teamwork but also a vibrant celebration of the spirit of Lord Krishna. The chant "Govinda Aala Re!" echoes through the streets as the Govindas attempt to reach the Dahi Handi, making it a joyous and thrilling occasion for all who participate and watch.
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