An 11-year-old member of a Govinda squad died on Monday after he fell during a practice session to form a human pyramid for the upcoming Dahi Handi festival in Dahisar area of Mumbai, triggering concerns over the safety of young participants, reported the PTI.
According to the police, Mahesh Jadhav suffered a head injury during practice on an open ground. He was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
“Jadhav used to participate in the Dahi Handi festival every year. This incident is indicative of several Govinda troupes practising without proper safety measures, an official said, as per the PTI.
He said that not using helmets, safety belts, and harnesses potentially increases the possibility of such incidents in the festive season.
Dahisar Police have registered an Accidental Death Report (ADR) in the matter.
Dahi Handi celebrations are part of Janmashtami that marks the birth of Lord Krishna. The festival will be celebrated on August 16.
As part of the celebrations, Govindas or Dahi Handi participants form multi-tiered human pyramids to break `Dahi Handis` (clay pots filled with curd) suspended mid-air.
Maharashtra to insure 1.5 lakh `Govindas`; payout of Rs 10 lakh for fatality
Meanwhile, last month, the Maharashtra government had announced insurance coverage to 1.5 lakh `Govindas` taking part in Dahi Handi festivities with a maximum payout at Rs 10 lakh in case of death, a move coming less than a month before the popular festival, reported news agency PTI.
The insurance package will cover accidental injuries (sometimes fatal) caused during the formation of human pyramids.
The state government will bear the insurance costs for registered participants forming human pyramids during the popular festival, which will be celebrated on August 16 this year, according to a government resolution (GR) issued on Wednesday, reported PTI.
The GR outlined six categories of accidents and the corresponding insurance payouts. In case of death during a Dahi Handi performance, the kin of the deceased Govinda will receive Rs 10 lakh. The same amount will be paid in case of total permanent disability, such as the loss of both eyes or two limbs, reported PTI.
Govindas suffering the loss of one eye, one arm, or one leg will be eligible for a compensation of Rs 5 lakh. Partial or permanent disablement will be compensated in accordance with the insurance company`s standard categories of percentage-based disability, said the order, reported PTI.
Additionally, the insurance scheme will cover medical expenses up to Rs 1 lakh for injuries sustained during performances, it stated.
The move comes as part of the state government`s initiative to promote the traditional sport while ensuring the safety and well-being of participants.
(with PTI inputs)
