Janmashtami is here and devotees all across the globe are very excited to celebrate the birthday of Lord Krishna fondly known by several names like nandlal, gopal, kanhaiya to name a few. Lord Krishna's birth anniversary is celebrated on this day and people follow several rituals and customs. People decorate temples and set up jhoolas. They make prasad of foods loved by Lord Krishna like makhan mishri, dhaniya panjiri, gopalkala and more. Janmashtami is synonymous with one popular cultural sport- Dahi Handi. But have you ever thought why?
Significance Of Dahi Handi
While dahi is curd, Handi is an earthen pot. Also popularly known as Utlotsavam or Gopalakala, Dahi Handi is celebrated in Maharashtra and other parts of the country and commemorates the lifestyle of Lord Krishna. Since Janmashtami is here, let us tell you the significance of this crucial event. As per Hindu Mythology, Lord Krishna loved makhan (butter), dahi (curd) and other milk products when he was young. Lord Krishna was so fond of milk products like makhan and dahi that he used to steal it from his neighbors. Thus, he was also referred to as “Makhan Chor”.
Lord Krishna, along with his friends, used to form a troop to steal curd and butter from the houses. To protect their curd and butter from the boys, village women used to hang them in earthen pots from the ceiling of their rooms so that Lord Krishna can’s get them. They took advantage of Lord Krishna’s short height, but all their plants miserably failed. Lord Krishna used to climb up with the idea of forming a human pyramid with his male troop and steal the butter and curd.
Dahi Handi Celebrations
For Dahi Handi, people fill an earthen pot with milk, curd, butter and many other milk products and hang it a particular height with rope tied on both ends. A group of young boys or men form a human pyramid to reach this handi and break it. Women who represent the ladies of Lord Krishna's neighbourhood, throw water and other slippery liquids at them so that they can fall. Boys or men use a stick to break the dahi handi. This sport activity requires much teamwork, balance and coordination. Breaking of handi not just symbolizes the playful and mischievous nature of Lord Krishna but also brings a sense of togetherness, happiness and celebration.