The festive spirit of Janmashtami turned tragic on Saturday as Dahi Handi celebrations across Maharashtra reported two deaths and more than 200 injuries, with incidents in both Mumbai and Thane.
The annual festival, which marks the birth of Lord Krishna, is celebrated with great enthusiasm by “Govinda” teams who form human pyramids to break the suspended earthen pots filled with curd. However, the risks associated with the event once again came into sharp focus this year.
Two Fatalities in Mumbai
According to civic officials, a 14-year-old boy from Mumbai collapsed during the celebrations. The teenager, who had recently recovered from jaundice, was not part of the pyramid but fainted while seated in a tempo. Doctors at the hospital declared him dead on arrival.
In another tragic incident, Jagmohan Shivkiran Chaudhari (32) lost his life in Mankhurd. While attempting to tie a Dahi Handi pot from the first-floor window of his house, he slipped and fell. He was rushed to the Shatabdi Govandi Hospital, but doctors confirmed he had succumbed to his injuries.
Injuries in Thane: Children Among Victims
Thane also witnessed several injuries during the celebrations. At least nine Govindas, including children as young as five years old, were reported injured.
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A 13-year-old girl fractured her right hand.
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A 10-year-old boy sustained a head injury.
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A five-year-old injured his shoulder.
All were admitted to Kalwa Hospital and Thane District Hospital for treatment.
Despite clear instructions from the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) that children under 14 should not participate in pyramid formations, several minors were spotted taking part. Yasin Tadvi, chief of the TMC Disaster Management Cell, expressed concern:
“Despite repeated instructions, children below 14 years were found participating. This is extremely risky.”
Record-Breaking Pyramid in Thane
Amid the tragedies, Thane also witnessed a historic moment. At an event organized by Purvesh Sarnaik, son of Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, a Govinda team formed a 10-layer human pyramid—believed to be a world record. The Konkan Nagar Raja Govinda team achieved the feat and was awarded a prize of ₹25 lakh by the minister.
A Festival of Joy, But Safety Concerns Remain
While Dahi Handi is a beloved tradition that brings communities together with music, dance, and teamwork, the recurring reports of deaths and injuries highlight the urgent need for stricter safety measures. Organizers, civic bodies, and Govinda pathaks must work together to ensure the spirit of Janmashtami is celebrated without such devastating consequences.
