Govinda women's teams have emerged across Maharashtra. (Image source: Shutterstock)
Dahi Handi 2024: The evolution of female Govindas represents the breaking of gender barriers in a traditionally male-dominated event.
Jamashtami celebrates Dahi Handi, marking the birth of Lord Krishna. The main event of this festival is that the Govindas (a group of men) form a human pyramid to reach and break a pot (handi) hanging at a considerable height, symbolizing Krishna's childhood rise from the gopis. Eating cream from a high hanging jar.
Traditionally, these teams were made up entirely of men, reflecting wider social norms; physical and public displays of strength were considered the domain of men.
Back in 1995, when Dahi Handi was yet to be commercialized in Mumbai, social worker Bhau Korgaonkar and his wife Shalaka decided to introduce women to this sport that had always been a male sport.
The idea was unique at the time and no one thought it would survive more than one season. Indeed, plans to promote gender equality were met with ridicule, but the people of Korgaonkar remained steadfast in their faith.
The evolution of female Govindas represents the breaking of gender barriers in a traditionally male-dominated activity.
Women Govinda teams are present in various districts of Maharashtra, especially in urban centers like Mumbai and Pune, where they participate along with men, forming pyramids to reach and break Handi.
The Govindas girls team consists of kho kho players and athletes who have excelled at different levels of competition, ranging in age from 6 to 22 years. By participating as Govinda, women not only participate in cultural celebrations; They are actively redefining social expectations.
Their participation challenges the stereotype that women are inherently weaker or unable to engage in strenuous physical activity.
Building the human pyramid requires strength, balance, teamwork and resilience – qualities that Ms Govindas proved to have in abundance.
As they climb higher, both literally and metaphorically, these women are proving that traditional gender roles no longer matter in modern society.
The rise of Govindas women also reflects wider social changes, with a growing focus on gender equality and empowerment. These women are role models, showing that determination and courage can overcome social barriers.
Their participation in Dahi Handi is a visible, public assertion of their right to participate in all aspects of cultural life, regardless of gender.
The presence of women in Govindas helped normalize the idea of women in leadership positions and physically demanding roles. As they hold important positions within the pyramid and lead their teams to success, they inspire other women and girls to pursue their goals without being held back by traditional expectations.
This stereotype-breaking act isn’t just about attending festivals; It’s about reshaping the narrative of what women can achieve.
Despite the progress, female Govindas still face challenges. The physical nature of the event raises safety concerns, especially given that the human pyramid can sometimes be several stories high.
Organizers and participants must respond carefully to these risks. Efforts have been made to implement safety measures such as limiting pyramid heights for women's teams, providing safety gear and ensuring proper training. These precautions are crucial to encourage more women to participate and ensure their safety.
While acceptance is growing, there can still be resistance among more conservative or traditional communities. Some may view women's participation as inappropriate or against social norms. Overcoming these attitudes requires continued advocacy and regular participation of women in all aspects of public life.
