By: Toshita Sahni
Image: Wikipedia
Dahi Handi is a highlight of Janmashtami, which marks the birth of Lord Krishna. It involves the formation of human pyramids to break a pot (handi) or curd (dahi).
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Although it's often viewed as a competitive activity in many places, this unique ritual has deep symbolic and spiritual significance.
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According to legend, Lord Krishna used to love butter so much as a child that he used to steal it. This earned him the nickname ‘Makhan Chor'.
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To protect their butter, people began storing it in pots that were hung high to keep them away from Lord Krishna's reach.
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Lord Krishna and his friends formed human pyramids to climb up and take the butter. This playful act is re-enacted through the Dahi Handi tradition.
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A clay pot filled with curd, butter, and/or other treats is strung high above the street. Teams of ‘Govindas' make human pyramids to reach and break the handi.
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The crowd chants “Govinda Ala Re” and cheers for the participants. Dahi Handi is a highly awaited Janmashtami tradition that takes place with much fanfare.
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In Maharashtra, it is both a devotional act and a grand public competition with prizes. It can be considered a celebration of faith as well as teamwork.
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For Janmashtami recipes for a festive celebration
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