The birth of Lord Krishna was rung in with religious fervour and gaiety in Maharashtra and it was followed Monday by colourful ‘dahi handi’ celebrations which saw enthusiastic participation by youngsters in Mumbai and other parts of the state. However, like every year, there have been reports of injuries as well. As per an ANI report 36 ‘govindas’ have been injured till 2pm in Mumbai during Dahi-Handi celebrations. In Thane, one person injured during Dahi Handi celebrations and has been admitted to the hospital.
Many Dahi Handi events take place every year in India. Injuries and death are common during this process. In 2017, Supreme Court and Mumbai High Court restricted the participation of children below 14 years in Dahi Handi celebration. The Mumbai police cautioned revellers against making high human pyramids and advised Govindas to wear safety gears to avoid any injuries while falling during attempt to break pots.
“Break Dahi Handi. Not Your Head. Let your being on top of the world feeling not get shattered by unnecessary carelessness! #AwareGovindaAalaRe #WearSafetyGear,” the police tweeted.
The Disaster Management Cell of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) remained alert to deal with any eventuality, while hospitals were asked to keep medical staff on standby. In the past, several Govindas were injured after falling off human pyramids. Rajaram Humne, founder of the Govinda Mitra Mandal, said, “Our team members followed all guidelines laid down by the court, government and police.”