Krishna Janmashtami: What's inside a Dahi Handi— curd, butter, and more

By Vivek Dubey

CNBC-TV18.com

Published August 26, 2024

Handi’s Symbolism

The contents of the handi, from curd to sweets, symbolise various aspects of Krishna's life, reflecting the festival’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

Curd: Krishna's Favourite

The handi is filled with curd, a staple from Krishna's childhood, symbolising his playful love for dairy, central to the Janmashtami celebration.

Butter: Divine Playfulness

Butter is often added to the handi, representing Krishna’s mischievous antics, reminding us of his fondness for this dairy delight.

Ghee: Symbol of Purity

Ghee, or clarified butter, is sometimes included, symbolising purity and prosperity, adding spiritual significance to the Dahi Handi ritual.

Dry Fruits: Festive Abundance

Dry fruits like almonds and raisins are placed in the handi, symbolising nourishment and the richness of nature, reflecting the festival’s themes of abundance and prosperity.

Bananas: A Nutrient-Rich Offering

Bananas are commonly used, reflecting nourishment and Krishna’s connection to nature, embodying the spirit of abundance on Janmashtami.

Coconut: Earth’s Bounty

Coconut pieces symbolise the Earth’s gifts, representing the nourishing and sustaining aspects of nature, celebrated in the handi.

Money: Prize for Pyramids

Money is often included in the handi, serving as a prize for those who break it, adding excitement and rewarding teamwork during the event.

Peda: Sweetness of Life

Traditional sweets like peda are added, representing the sweetness of life and the joy associated with Krishna’s birth and the festive spirit.

Laddoos: Celebration of Joy

Laddoos are another common sweet in the handi, symbolising joy and prosperity, enhancing the festive atmosphere of Janmashtami.

Unity in Pyramids

The human pyramid formed to break the handi symbolises teamwork and unity, embodying the collective effort needed to achieve a shared goal.