Dahi Handi ritual draws crowds at ISKCON Tirupati Janmashtami fete
ISKCON Tirupati's Janmashtami festival features a lively Dahi Handi event, with youths forming pyramids to break a pot amid water sprays.
The three-day Sri Krishna Janmashtami celebrations at the ISKCON Lotus Temple in Tirupati saw its most spirited moment on Friday with the traditional 'Utlotsavam', popularly known as Dahi Handi. Local youths enthusiastically took part in the event, forming vertical human pyramids on the temple grounds in an attempt to reach and break a pot suspended at a height.
Participants pressed on despite water being sprayed on them as a playful deterrent, eventually succeeding in shattering the pot to mark their victory. The ritual recreates an episode from Lord Krishna's childhood and remains a living tradition in places like Vrindavan.
Beyond the main event, the temple and its surroundings were dressed up for the occasion. The Hare Krishna Road leading to the shrine was illuminated with serial lights and displays depicting scenes from the Srimad Bhagavatha. Inside, the altar was adorned with garlands of rare flowers, and the unique idol arrangement featuring Lord Krishna, Radha, and the Ashtasakhis drew attention.
Given the large footfall expected over the festival days, Alipiri police barricaded the street to manage vehicular movement and urged the public to maintain order. The festivities also coincide with the birth anniversary of ISKCON founder Srila Prabhupada, which is being observed over the weekend.