Mumbai’s festive spirit soared high once again on Saturday as the city marked the celebration of Dahi Handi with grand processions, towering human pyramids, and booming music.
However, at the Survechi Dahi Handi event held in Borivali, the atmosphere raised more concern than cheer. What was intended to be a cultural celebration of Krishna Janmashtami turned into a disturbing display of commercialisation and objectification.
Borivali Event Raises Eyebrows
As part of the event, a group of young women performed on stage—allegedly to “entertain” the participants. Clad in a skimpy black saree the lady leading the performance, controversial ``laavni" dancer Gautami Patil the group danced to questionable item songs.
Famous Lavani performer Gautami Patil's earlier performance
Spectators, rather than appreciating the cultural significance of the festival, crowded the stage, flashing currency notes and egging on the dancers. Many onlookers described the scene as “cheap” and “uncomfortable,” noting that the crowd behaviour lacked basic decency.
Instead of family-friendly festivities, the event took on the feel of a chaotic street concert, far removed from the religious and historical roots of Dahi Handi.
Lack of Oversight
What was most alarming was the lack of regulation. There appeared to be no authority monitoring the appropriateness of performances, crowd control, or overall safety.
Larger Question of Festival’s Meaning
The growing trend of turning cultural events into spectacles for monetary gain is not only diluting the tradition but also creating unsafe and disrespectful environments—especially for women.
While Dahi Handi is meant to celebrate unity, strength, and devotion, incidents like these raise serious questions about how far we’ve drifted from the festival’s true meaning.
