One dead, 36 injured during dahi handi celebrations in Mumbai; police say youth died due to epileptic fit

Mumbai: At least one govinda lost his life during Janmashtami dahi handi celebrations on Monday. The person died in the Sion Hospital.

Dahi Handi is celebrated by forming human pyramids on the eve of Janmashtami which is celebrated with fervour in the state.

The deceased was at the first level of the pyramid when he suddenly collapsed. According to the police, he died due to an epileptic fit.

Meanwhile, at least 36 govindas were injured till 2 pm while participating in dahi handi celebrations across Mumbai. The ritual is part of the Janmashtami festival in the state in which youngsters (called Govindas), dressed in colourful costumes, make a human pyramid to reach the earthen pot having buttermilk, suspended in mid-air, and break it.

The Mumbai Police had tweeted to alert people and advised the govindas to take precautionary measures by wearing safety gears to avoid any injuries.

The Disaster Management Cell of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) was alerted to deal with any untoward incident, while hospitals were asked to keep their medical staff and facilities on standby.

In 2017, the Supreme Court and the Bombay High Court had restricted the participation of children below 14 years in the Dahi Handi celebration. Two persons lost their lives in 2017 while 197 got injured at different places in the event related incidents.