An invitation to what Amchi Mumbai is famous for post Janamashtami, The Dahi Handi Festivity.
A tradition that dates back to lord Krishna's time. It Initially originate as the curd handi's were tied high using a rope to save it from the "Dahi-Makhan Chor" Lord Krishna, who used to steal makhan (butter) or dahi (curd) from handis forming Human Pyramids.
Had an opportunity to see it live for the first time when Mayur, A friend of mine, who stays in Bandra invited me and some of our friends for the Dahi Handi that takes place in his locality.
He has been organizing and participating in the same event since a long time.
The experience became extraordinary when he asked to participate in it. My first understanding of the activity was the unity that it creates among the people of a locality. People from different culture and age group came together and joined in for the event. On one hand we were trying to figure out strategies to form a pyramid and on the other hand ladies were busy pouring water on us and throwing packets filled with water on us. The task though became difficult was equally fun. All of us were determined to reach our goal i.e. reach up to Handi and break it.
A number of failed attempts that resulted in people falling down were just a small part of the efforts put in by all of us. But eventually we did succeed in breaking the handi. And as if The Lord Krishna himself came to bless us all the curd came down on us as blessings.
The fun did not end here. The tired bodies obviously need some fuel. The same was provided in the form of Home-cooked, hot Missal Pao and Pulao prepared by my friend's Mother and Sister In-law. And it was definitely a great feeling having this food with all my dear friends around me. And to top it all the warm and jovial welcome that we got from my friend's family. A day that turned out amazing and finally making feel the spirit and joy of Mumbai.
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