Mumbai Celebrates Janmasthami With Dahi Handi; 1 Dead, 117 Injured

Mumbai celebrated Krishna Janmasthami on August 14 and 15. While the first day was marked by solemn celebrations, the second day was when festivities hit the roof, so to say. Janmashtami's second day was marked by the Dahi Handi competition to celebrate the mischievous side of the Hindu god 'Krishna'. Janmasthami commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna who is the eight incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Mumbai witnessed many Dahi Handi competitions with huge prize money. While two 'Govindas' — one each in Palghar district and Airoli in Navi Mumbai — died in Dahi Handi-related incidents, 117 others were injured at different places in Mumbai while forming human pyramids. The first 'govinda' died of electrocution in Airoli. The second death was reported from Pune; the person suffered heart attack. Another victim died after suffering epileptic attack in Palghar during Dahi Handi celebrations.

The victim in Airoli was identified as Jayesh Sarle, police said. "The incident took place at a Dahi Handi event organised at a school ground in Airoli around 6.30 pm. Jayesh, who was also a Govinda, was standing near the gate of the venue when he came in contact with a live wire," a senior official attached to Rabale police station, said.

After the demonetisation, several mandals substantially reduced the prize money offered to the Govinda troupes.