How is Dahi Handi an adventure sport: Bombay HC asks Maharashtra govt

The Bombay high court on Monday questioned the categorization of Dahi Handi as an ‘adventurous sport’.

The Bombay high court on Monday questioned the categorization of Dahi Handi as an ‘adventurous sport’.

Bombay HC asked Maharashtra government what it meant by categorising Dahi Handi as an ‘adventurous sport’. (Anshuman Poyrekar/HT File Photo)

The court directed the Maharashtra government to explain what it meant by “adventure sport” and does it mean that the HC order -- capping height of Dahi Handis and restricting participation in the cultural event to adults only -- can be flouted under that garb.

“What do you mean by 'adventure sport’”, the bench of Justice RM Savant and Justice Sadhana Jadhav asked assistant public prosecutor Prajakta Shinde. “Does it mean that a five year old can participate in Dahi Handi and the high court order can be flouted openly,” it added.

The bench was hearing a contempt petition filed by Swati Patil complaining about the breach of a HC order that raised concern about the casualties and injuries caused during Dahi Handi celebrations.

Acting on her PIL, high court had in August 2014 ruled that children must not be allowed to participate in Dahi Handi celebrations in view of the inherent dangers involved in the event and taking into consideration the ever-increasing height of Dahi Handi. It also limited the pyramid to four tiers or about 20 feet. The state government has carried the matter to the Supreme Court challenging the high court order and the apex court has ordered that no person below 18 years of age can take part in Dahi Handi.