When we talk about Pyramids it is the Egyptian pyramids or the pyramids of Giza that come to our mind.But those are monuments and best read in Histroy books. India could also boast of pyramids but not as those monuments but man's venture in celebrating festivals.Yes we are talking about human pyramids organised on the occasion of Gokulashtami or the Birth of Lord Krishna.The Hindus consider this day very sacred as it is believed Lord Krishna was born on this day ages back to bring an end to the atrocities caused by demons to mankind .The human pyramid signifies the way Lord Krishna during his early boyhood spent in Gokul used to steal butter kept on pots with the help of his friends.
In modern times there is a blend of commerciality added to this celebration.A group of fifty to hundred or probably even more organize themselves in to a multi tier human pyramid and target to break the pot filled with butter milk strung on ropes at a great height.That is why it is also called 'Dahi Handi' locally.The pots are usually broken with a blunt object by the topmost person standing on the pyramid.A coconut is usually used to break the pots and the buttermilk spills all over the troops signifying unity in their efforts to success.Many Govinda groups compete with each other to earn hefty rewards .These celebrations in recent times have a political flavour attached to them as political parties announce heavy cash prizes to the winners to gain prominence.
In the event of one such 'Gokulashtami' on August 22,2011 famous cultural and sporting organisation Castellers De Vilafranca, from Spain along with Maharashtra Tourism Development Board and Sangarsh a Non Government Organisation organised the tallest 10 tier human pyramid comprising of 300 participants at Mumbai,India.Castellars de Vilafranca has about 400 active members who are adept in building human pyramids and hence they wanted to create a record to make the festive celebration even grand.
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