On the occassion of Janmashtami, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government on Thursday decided to accord adventure sport status to 'Dahi Handi', an activity during which a human pyramid is formed to break an earthen pot filled with yogurt hanging mid-air. The announcement was made by Chief Minister in assembly earlier in the day.
After the announcement, the participants of Dahi Handi, also known as govindas, will be able to apply for government jobs under the sports quota. The state government would also bear the medical treatment cost of 'govindas' (participants) in case they suffer injuries.
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During Dahi Handi groups of 'govindas' moving around in cities and vying with each other in breaking Dahi Handis (earthen pots filled with yogurt and suspended in mid-air) and winning prizes.
"The Maharashtra government has decided to recognise formation of human towers as part of Dahi Handi celebrations as an adventure sport. With this recognition, the players will become eligible to apply for government jobs under the sports quota," Shinde said in the Lower House.
He also informed that in case of injuries suffered by the players during the formation of human pyramids, participants or their families will be provided with compensation.
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In case of death of any participant during Dahi Handi event, his/her kin would get Rs 10 lakh as compensation from the state government. Meanwhile, a player suffering serious injuries would receive Rs 7 lakh, while one with fractures would be paid Rs 5 lakh.
Entire country is celebrating Krishna Janmashtami with any restrictions today after two years of subdued revelry. Dahi Handi is played during Janmashtmi festival, especially in Mumbai. Meanwhile, Maharashtra government has lifted all Coronavirus-related curbs.
(With inputs from PTI.)