At least eight mandals in Mumbai organise Dahi Handis that encourage women to form human pyramids, in quest of the prize money.
They rush home after office or college hours, change into salwar-kameezs with a dupatta tied around their waist, pull back their hair into a ponytail and practice an art that they plan to master. Dahi Handi, which until recently was a male domain, has witnessed an invasion from the women.
At least eight mandals in Mumbai organise Dahi Handis that encourage women to form human pyramids, in quest of the prize money. Practice sessions, say mandals, begin at least one month in advance, on the auspicious day of Guru Poornima.
“We have at least 200 girls across various age groups who regularly meet and practice for Dahi Handi,” said Geeta Talavade, a senior member of Vile Parle Sports Club. This year, the troupe hopes to better the six-level pyramid they formed last year.
They also plan a pyramid that is at least 40-feet high. The youngest participant, Bhagyati Hadkar, all of five, will have the most coveted job — as also the riskiest -- of all, to climb right up to the top and break open the Handi. “We are taking enough precautions to ensure that there is no casualty,” said Talavade.
Last year, the Club earned Rs2 lakh as prize money. A portion of it was distributed amongst the troupe. “We also help needy girls to seek admission in schools and educate them with the money,” said Veena Gurav, another member.
Women get on top
Thane has a reason to feel proud. For, this girl brigade of toughies have given their male counterparts a run for their money.
The Sankalp Mahila Govinda Pathak, which comprises 70 women will make their their presence felt for the sixth consecutive year by conforming to international style of human pyramid formation.
The lead was taken by Mohini Sawant, student of Bachelors in Physical Education and a Thane resident made a successful demonstration when she was in Spain for showcasing a human pyramid along with other girls from the state.
This group comprises of girls from the age of 10 years to women with 60 years. The group actively participates in Dahi Handi in parts of Thane and Mumbai. This is preceded by a one-hour rigorous practice daily.
According to Mohini, “our show was well appreciated in Spain. Their style is completely different and difficult. We have managed to learn their style which has five tiers. They lay emphasis on strong base which is the key to form a human pyramid.”
Mahendra Naik and Vinod Haunsalmal are the group’s trainers. “I found these girls have it in them to take on the challenge. This is the first group in Maharashtra which forms a six-tier pyramid. We will hopefull enter the Limca Book of Records in 2009,” said Mahendra.
—Deepa Sarna
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