Mumbai sees subdued Dahi Handi celebration; 1 killed

MUMABI: Mumbai saw subdued Dahi-Handi celebrations today, in the backdrop of restrictions on height of pyramids and curbs on decibel levels.

Many prominent Dahi Handi mandals had announced they were calling off the celebrations in view of acute drought in various parts of the state, specially in Marathwada region.

A 29-year-old person was killed while trying to tie the Dahi Handi at Bhiwandi in adjoining Thane district, police said.

Dahi Handi Utsav Samiti officials said despite security measures in place to prevent mishaps during formation of human pyramids to break Dahi Handis, there were reports of several cases of 'govindas' falling while attempting to break the handis (earthen pot).

So far, 35 persons injured in the Dahi Handi celebrations have been admitted to KEM hospital here, a civic official said.

In Dadar area, Jai Hanuman govinda troupe broke the Ideal Dahi Handi.

The excitement with which 'Govindas' travelled from the city to Thane and vice versa is not there this time.

A prominent Thane mandal decided not to celebrate the festival.

Samiti president Bala Padelkar said "children taking part in human pyramids were not below 12 years of age."

Those like Jai Jawan Mandal from Jogeshwari, which created a world record in 2012 and won the award for most layers -- nine -- said it will be forming as many as they were prepared this time too.