Mumbai Dahi Handi 2025: 318 Govindas Injured, Two Critical; Heavy Rain and Rush Blamed

Mumbai’s vibrant Dahi Handi 2025 celebrations turned tragic this year as 318 Govindas – participants in the iconic human pyramids – were injured across the city. While most were discharged after treatment, 24 remain hospitalised, with two reported critical as of Sunday evening. The accident tally marks a sharp rise compared to last year, when 246 injuries were recorded, according to the city’s disaster management data.
 

Hospitalisation and Critical Cases

Out of the total 318 injured Govindas, 294 were discharged after receiving primary treatment. The remaining 24 are still admitted in hospitals, including two critical cases. In central Mumbai, 135 injured participants were rushed to BMC-run hospitals, of which 119 were treated and discharged, while 16 remain under treatment. In the western suburbs, 115 Govindas were admitted; 105 discharged, six still undergoing treatment, and one reported critical. Eastern suburbs reported 72 admissions, with 70 discharged and two still hospitalised.

Reasons Behind the Surge in Injuries

Officials attributed the rise in accidents during Dahi Handi 2025 to a combination of factors — heavy rainfall, overcrowding at major mandals, and the presence of celebrities drawing large crowds. Witnesses, however, pointed out that slippery conditions caused by the downpour made human pyramids unstable, leading to more collapses. The traditional spirit of the festival, combined with political attention and celebrity presence, added to the rush, making it harder to control crowds.

Political Presence at Dahi Handi

As always, Dahi Handi celebrations drew not just enthusiastic participants but also political leaders ahead of civic elections. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis attended as many as 14 different mandals on Saturday, while other leaders made their presence felt across Mumbai and the MMR region. For years, the festival has remained a stage for both cultural fervour and political visibility.

Shiv Sena UBT Leaders Visit Injured Govindas

On Sunday, a team from Shiv Arogya Sena (Shiv Sena UBT) visited K.E.M Hospital, Parel, where many Govindas were admitted. Party leader Prakash Vani stated that 47 injured participants were brought for treatment. By morning, 11 had been discharged, while seven remained admitted. Two Govindas, Siddhesh Patil and Yash Panhale, reportedly opted for voluntary discharge.

Fatalities Cast a Shadow

Tragically, two deaths were also reported during the festivities, including that of a minor. Authorities confirmed that neither of the deceased were participants in the human pyramids, but their passing cast a somber mood over the celebrations.

The Spirit vs. The Risk

Every year, Mumbai’s Dahi Handi celebrations — a highlight of Janmashtami — draw massive crowds as Govindas form towering human pyramids to break earthen pots. While the event celebrates tradition, it continues to raise concerns over safety. With 318 injuries this year and two fatalities, questions once again arise on whether more stringent safety guidelines, regulated crowd management, and medical preparedness are urgently required.

Despite the risks, the enthusiasm of Govindas and the crowds reflects the unmatched energy of Mumbai’s festivals. Yet, as the city looks back on Dahi Handi 2025, the rising number of injuries highlights a pressing need for balancing tradition with safety.