IN PHOTOS: 63 Govindas injured as Mumbai marks Krishna Janmashtami with fervour

At least 63 Govindas were injured during Dahi Handi celebrations in Mumbai on August 27, 2024. The participants sustained injuries while forming human pyramids to break the suspended pots of curd, a traditional practice during Janmashtami. Pics/ Sayyed Sameer Abedi, Ashish Raje and Shadab Khan

Updated On: 2024-08-27 07:58 PM IST

Compiled by : Sanjana Deshpande

At least 63 Govindas were injured during Dahi Handi celebrations in Mumbai on August 27, 2024. The participants sustained injuries while forming human pyramids.

The injured Govindas were taken to both Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and private hospitals across Mumbai for treatment. Among them, eight were admitted for further care, while others were treated and discharged.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde attended a Dahi Handi event in Tembhi Naka, Thane. He praised his mentor Anand Dighe for revitalising the festival and assured that the government was committed to ensuring the safety and success of the events.

The Dahi Handi celebrations, especially those sponsored by prominent politicians, attracted large crowds, leading to significant traffic disruptions. The BEST had to divert or short-terminate 55 bus routes across the city due to congestion.

Several politicians in Mumbai and Thane, including BJP MLA Ram Kadam and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, sponsored Dahi Handi events, which were popular due to celebrity appearances and lucrative cash rewards for Govinda Pathaks.

Chief Minister Shinde emphasised that his administration had lifted previous restrictions and was focused on ensuring that the Dahi Handi celebrations were conducted safely, reflecting community spirit and cultural traditions.

In response to recent reports of sexual assault in Maharashtra, several Govinda groups displayed social messages on banners while participating in the Dahi Handi events. This effort was aimed at raising awareness and promoting social responsibility.

This year’s Dahi Handi celebrations also saw the participation of several all-women Govinda groups, who attempted to break Dahi Handis, showcasing their strength and determination.

At a BJP event in Worli, Govinda groups formed a four-tier pyramid to reenact the historic assassination of Afzal Khan by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, highlighting the cultural and historical significance of the festival.

The placement of Dahi Handis at major intersections, coupled with haphazard parking by Govinda groups, caused significant traffic snarls in Mumbai. Many areas experienced congestion throughout the day.

Dahi Handi events sponsored by politicians in Mumbai and Thane featured appearances by celebrities, adding to the festivities and drawing large crowds.

Two Govindas were treated at Rajawadi Hospital, while others received care at hospitals including KEM, Saint George, MT, and Kurla Bhabha, indicating the widespread impact of the injuries sustained during the celebrations.

The Dahi Handi festival is celebrated as part of Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna. The human pyramids formed by Govindas symbolize Krishna’s playful nature and his fondness for curd and butter.

Chief Minister Shinde reassured the public that comprehensive measures were in place to ensure the safety of participants in Dahi Handi events, reflecting the government's commitment to preserving cultural traditions while prioritising public safety.

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