Maharashtra Doubles Insurance Coverage to 1.5 Lakh 'Govindas'

Mumbai: This year, Maharashtra will see a significant increase in the number of Govindas receiving insurance coverage during the Dahi Handi celebrations of Janmashtami festival. To ensure the safety and well-being of participants, the State Government has announced insurance coverage to 1.5 lakh ‘Govindas’ – double the number insured in previous years which stood at around 75,000 – with a maximum payout at Rs 10 lakh in case of death.

The decision to expand coverage was taken in a meeting between Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Dahi Handi Samanvay Samiti. According to the government resolution (GR) issued by the State Government, it will bear the insurance costs for registered participants forming human pyramids during the popular festival, which will be celebrated on August 16 this year. The insurance package will cover accidental injuries (sometimes fatal) caused during the formation of human pyramids.

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.

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. Additionally, the insurance scheme will cover medical expenses up to Rs 1 lakh for injuries sustained during performances, the order stated.

The Maharashtra State Govinda Association, Mumbai, has been designated to verify the training, age and participation of Govindas and submit their details to the commissioner of sports and youth services in Pune.

Dahi Handi, part of the Janmashtami festival that marks the birth of Lord Krishna, is a popular event in Maharashtra known for its daring human pyramids formed by Govindas.

Govindas are youngsters who participate in the ritual of forming human pyramids to break Dahi Handis (earthen pots filled with curd) suspended mid-air to symbolise the playful spirit of Lord Krishna.

While the event is known for its vibrancy and community participation, it also carries risks, with participants often facing injuries while attempting to reach the suspended pot. In 2024, a total of 245 Govindas were injured during Dahi Handi celebrations in Mumbai. Of them, 32 were hospitalised, while 213 were treated and discharged.