Women Govindas Shine at Dahi Handi Festival in Mumbai’s Dadar Area
On the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami, the Dadar area of Mumbai was bustling with celebrations for the Dahi Handi festival. A large crowd gathered to watch the festivities, which included women Govindas and others dancing to music and singing traditional songs.
One of the major cultural activities, Dahi Handi involves filling an earthen pot with curd, butter, and other milk products. A group of people then form a human pyramid to reach and break the ‘matki’ hanging several feet in the air. This year, a team of women Govindas showcased their coordination and strength by forming a human pyramid and successfully breaking the ‘matki’.
The celebrations also featured children dressed as Krishna, multiple performances, and people displaying their diverse skills on the road. Dahi Handi commemorates Lord Krishna’s playful act of eating Dahi hung at a height when he was a child.
In multiple cities, Janmashtami celebrations included bhajans, religious dances, and discourses by saints and sages. Various social organizations organized large-scale events. According to scriptures, Janmashtami is celebrated on the eighth day of the dark fortnight of the month of Bhadrapada, marking the birth of Lord Krishna, an avatar of Lord Vishnu.
The festival is celebrated with prayers to Lord Krishna, beautifully decorated swings, dance and music performances, and the Dahi Handi competition.
Doubts Revealed
Govindas -: Govindas are people who form human pyramids to break a pot filled with curd or butter during the Dahi Handi festival. It is a fun and challenging activity.
Dahi Handi -: Dahi Handi is a festival where people form human pyramids to break a pot filled with curd or butter. It celebrates Lord Krishna’s love for these foods.
Dadar -: Dadar is a busy area in Mumbai, a big city in India. It is known for its markets and festivals.
Krishna Janmashtami -: Krishna Janmashtami is a festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, a Hindu god. People pray, sing, and perform dances to celebrate.
Matki -: Matki is a small pot usually filled with curd or butter. In the Dahi Handi festival, people try to break it by forming human pyramids.
Lord Krishna -: Lord Krishna is a Hindu god known for his playful and loving nature. He loved butter and curd, which is why these foods are important in the Dahi Handi festival.