Hundreds of 'Govindas' throng Mumbai streets on Dahi Handi
Last week, the Bombay High Court banned boys under 18 from participating in the pyramid and limited its height to 20 feet, a move struck down by the Supreme Court, which in turn asked organisers to keep safety measures ready.
Nothing can hamper Mumbai's Dahi Handi festivities on Janmasthami, the festival signifying the birth of Lord Krishna.
While Bollywood stars made brief appearances in many parts of Mumbai, towering human pyramids were seen all over the city on Monday as the Supreme Court overturned height and age limits imposed by a lower court.
Hundreds of 'govindas' in cavalcades of trucks and motorcycles were seen travelling to pandals to prove their mettle by breaking pots of butter or curd hung high in Mumbai's bylanes. Even a team of Spanish Castellers arrived in the city to challenge the city 'govindas'. Nearly two dozen 'govindas' were reportedly injured on Monday.
Last week, the Bombay High Court banned boys under 18 from participating in the pyramid and limited its height to 20 feet, a move struck down by the Supreme Court, which in turn asked organisers to keep safety measures ready.
Almost all big 'dahi handi' events were sponsored by political leaders, including NCP leaders Jitendra Ahwad and Sachin Ahir. Over 30,000 cops were deployed to ensure a safe festival.
"This time, we are strictly following the Supreme Court's order. Our baal gopal at the top of the pyramid is above 12 years. But there were many mandals who were seen violating the rules," Gautam, member of Jarimari Dahi Handi Mandal at Mangalwadi, Girgaum said.
The festival is inspired by the mythological tales of Lord Krishna stealing butter from a suspended earthen pot.