'Dandauti Parikrama' in Mathura banned to avoid stampede-like situation

The practice of rolling over the ground or 'Dandauti Parikrama' at the Mudiya Poono has been banned this year to avoid any stampede-like situation. The fair on the first day saw nearly eight lakh pilgrims circumambulating the Govardhan hill.

"Dandauti Parikrama has totally been banned. The pilgrims will not be allowed to perform Dandauti Parikrama before commencing their circumbulation of Giriraj Ji," Mela Officer A K Awasthi said.

Awasthi said that the ban has been enforced to prevent any incident of stampede during the fair.

Dandauti Parikrama refers to the practice of covering the entire distance of 'parikrama' lying down and rolling over.

According to legend, the fair is organised to express gratitude to Lord Krishna who protected Brijwasis from the wrath of Lord Indra by lifting the Goverdhan hill on his finger. For better management of the fair, the event area has been divided into six super-zones, 21-zones and 60 sectors. A gazetted officer has been made in-charge of each of them.

Awasthi said that to provide better medical assistance to the visiting pilgrims a mobile motorcycle medical system has been introduced for the first time. Security has been beefed up in and around the 'Mela'.

"While 24 watch towers have been set up on the 'Parikrama Marg', police in plainclothes have been deputed at major temples to prevent incident of pick-pocketing and chain snatching," he said.