Pune was awash with joy and excitement on Tuesday (August 27) night as the city’s central areas and surrounding neighborhoods hosted vibrant Dahi Handi celebrations.
The event, marking the day after Krishna Janmashtami, saw thousands of revelers braving the rain to witness and participate in the traditional spectacle.
The festivities commenced at around 4 PM, with major roads in the city’s core—Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Road, Bajirao Road, Laxmi Road, Kelkar Road, and others—buzzing with activity.
Crowds gathered around the towering human pyramids formed by Govinda teams, who competed to break the Dahi Handis suspended high above.
As chants of "Govinda Aala Re Aala" and "Arre Bol Bajrang Bali Ki Jai" filled the air, the tension mounted with each ascending tier of the human pyramids.
The atmosphere was electrified by the accompaniment of pulsating music, colorful lights, and laser shows. The rain, far from dampening spirits, added to the dramatic ambiance, making the celebration all the more memorable.
Participants from all walks of life, including students, working professionals, and entire families, danced and cheered, fully immersed in the joyous occasion.
Prominent mandals like Suvarnayug Tarun Mandal and Hutatma Babu Genu Mandal added their unique flair to the festival with intricate floral decorations and tableaux depicting scenes from Krishna Leela.
Some mandals incorporated themes honoring recent sporting triumphs, such as flex banners of the world champion cricket team and World Cup-themed Dahi Handis. Others paid tribute to Olympic winners, while Marathi film and television stars made special appearances, further heightening the excitement.
In a thrilling moment, the Radhe Krishna Group from Kasba Peth successfully broke the Suvarnayug Tarun Mandal’s Dahi Handi at 9:08 PM, forming a seven-tier human pyramid.
Young Govinda Viraj Kamble, who led the final charge, captivated the audience with his skill and determination. The team was awarded INR 51,000 and a commemorative trophy.
Later, at 9:55 PM, the Shivtej Dahi Handi team also secured victory by breaking the Hutatma Babu Genu Mandal’s Dahi Handi, earning another INR 51,000 prize.
The celebrations drew participants from across Pune and neighboring regions, with many Govinda teams breaking multiple Dahi Handis and winning substantial rewards. The day concluded with a spectacular display of fireworks, leaving the crowd in awe.