- By Prerna Targhotra
- Tue, 27 Aug 2024 10:12 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Dahi Handi 2024: Amongst numerous Janmashtami celebrations, Dahi Handi is an energetic and colourful ritual that enhances the celebration of Janmashtami, honouring the birth of Lord Krishna. This spirited event is especially prominent in Maharashtra and other regions of India and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. As Janmashtami is here, numerous parts of the country will be hosting Dahi Handi to uplift the celebrations of Lord Krishna’s birthday. Let’s explore the date, timings, significance and festive celebrations of Janmashtami.
Dahi Handi 2024 Date And Time
As this year, Janmashtami falls on August 26, Dahi Handi will be celebrated on August 27. According to Drik Panchang, Ashtami Tithi will begin at 03:39 AM on Aug 26, 2024, and end at 02:19 AM on Aug 27, 2024. Festivities typically commence in the morning and continue throughout the day, with the most exciting events and activities beginning in the late morning and reaching their peak in the afternoon.
Dahi Handi 2024 (Image Credits: Canva)
Dahi Handi 2024 Significance
The Dahi Handi festival is inspired by a well-loved tale from Lord Krishna's childhood. Hindu mythology recounts how Lord Krishna, known for his playful antics, had a fondness for curd and butter. To access these treats, he and his friends would form human pyramids to break open pots of curd and butter hung high in their homes.
Dahi Handi recreates this charming episode. The festival involves constructing human pyramids to reach and break a clay pot filled with curd or buttermilk, suspended high above the ground. This act represents Lord Krishna's cleverness and his ability to overcome obstacles, emphasising unity, teamwork and devotion.
Dahi Handi 2024 Celebrations
Leading up to Dahi Handi, local streets and venues are decorated with vibrant banners and ornaments. Clay pots, filled with curd, buttermilk or a combination of both, are hung at various heights. These pots are often elaborately adorned, contributing to the festive ambience.
Dahi Handi 2024 (Image Credits: Canva)
The centrepiece of Dahi Handi is the construction of human pyramids. Teams, known as ‘Govindas,’ engage in this thrilling challenge, aiming to build the tallest and most stable pyramid to break the handi. When the pyramid successfully reaches the pot, the topmost participant, often an acrobat, breaks it open. This moment is celebrated with cheers, music and the sound of bells. The curd or buttermilk that spills out is shared among the participants and the audience.
Due to the energetic nature of the occasion, ensuring safety is crucial. Organisers and participants implement safety measures to protect everyone involved. Medical teams are often on standby, and safety protocols are followed to minimise the risk of injuries.
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