According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), a total of 195 Govindas sustained injuries in various incidents while participating in Dahi Handi celebrations on the occasion of Janmashtami in Mumbai. Among these individuals, 18 required hospitalization, while the remaining 177 were discharged.
Earlier, on Thursday, the BMC had reported that 35 Govindas had suffered injuries during Dahi Handi festivities. Among them, four Govindas sustained severe injuries, and 22 are currently receiving medical treatment.
Dahi Handi, a significant cultural event, involves the ritual of filling an earthen pot with curd, butter, and other dairy products. Subsequently, a group of participants forms a human pyramid to reach the pot and break it with a stick.
This tradition symbolizes the playfulness and innocence of Lord Krishna, as well as his affection for butter and curd. Dahi Handi celebrations commemorate the childhood act of Lord Krishna, who would steal and consume curd hung at a height.
According to the Hindu calendar, Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, was born on the eighth day of the month of Bhadra. This day typically falls in August or September according to the Western calendar.
The festival is marked by prayers to Lord Krishna, beautifully adorned swings, dance performances, musical presentations, and the Dahi Handi competition.