'Maharashtra To Seek UNESCO Heritage Status For Dahi Handi, Govindas To Be Sent To Spain': Minister Ashish Shelar

Mumbai: Maharashtra's government aims to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for the traditional Dahi Handi festival, with Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar announcing the initiative on Sunday. The minister, speaking at the 'Krishnanand Sohala' event organized by the Maharashtra State Dahi Handi Govinda Association in Parel, called for strict adherence to safety and traffic regulations during celebrations.

The event featured participation from Dahi Handi teams, Govindas, and various organizations linked to the festival across Maharashtra. A group Shri Krishna aarti was also performed. Shelar emphasized the government's commitment to promoting the Dahi Handi tradition while prioritizing participant safety. He urged Govinda teams to follow necessary precautions, traffic rules, and ensure the well-being of pedestrians and citizens.

The minister recalled the legal struggle fought by Govinda teams against restrictions on Dahi Handi, highlighting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' strong support during a Supreme Court case. Shelar also accused certain groups of continuously pushing for restrictions on traditional Hindu festivals, including Ganeshotsav, Nag Panchami, and Dahi Handi.

He alleged that those demanding such restrictions were linked to urban Naxalism, making a direct allegation against them. The government would ensure the protection of Maharashtra's traditional and Hindu festivals, addressing public safety, environmental, and traffic concerns concurrently.