The most-awaited celebration, Shri Krishna Janmashtami, is here. It is so special in India as Lord Krishna was born on this day, as per Hindu mythology. In different regions of India, ‘Dahi Handi’ events are organised with high enthusiasm. Different teams of men and women come together and form a pyramid to break a pot suspended high above the ground at a certain height.
Dahi handi is filled with various dairy products like curd, butter, sugar, and more. To hit that handi, the team should be strong enough to handle each person’s weight helping form the pyramid.
Though it is a challenging competition, the thrill of clambering upon the shoulders and limbs of your teammates to win it needs real strength in your body.
What is a Pyramid Structure in the Dahi Handi Competition?
Before you jump in to participate, you should know the foundation of the human pyramid. Basically, it is built in layers that call for the strongest ones to set the foundation layer. Gradually, the pyramid is formed safely. Let’s understand this in detail:
Forming the Base Layer
Since the base layer is the foundation of the pyramid, the participants with higher strength need to be balanced throughout the competition. They hold the weight of people on the upper layers.
Balancing with the Middle Layer
In this layer stands the people with moderate strength and balance. This layer is really crucial to balance the structure from the bottom and upper layers as well.
Finishing up with the Top Layer
The individuals in this layer are addressed as Govindas. Here, the person with the lightest weight and supreme agility is chosen since they have the responsibility to break Dahi handi.
What Should You Do to Form a Robust Pyramid?
If you are participating in the Dahi handi competition, you can follow the below-mentioned tips:
Pay Special Attention to Core Strength
For a stable pyramid, all participants should have core strength, especially in the base and middle layers. If you can maintain stability and balance, it minimises the risk of collapsing the pyramid. For this, you can do the following exercises:
- Plank: Try holding the plank position for 30 seconds to 1 minute. This exercise primarily targets your back, shoulders, and core.
- Leg Raises: To do this, you need to lie on your back and try to lift your legs with no bend on your knees. After that, bring them down slowly. It helps strengthen your abdominal muscles.
Improve Shoulder and Leg Strength
When you stand on the base layer, it requires strong shoulders and legs. Strength in these areas can prevent injuries and ensure that you provide stability to the human pyramid. For pumping power to these, you can do these exercises:
- Lunges and Squats
These exercises focus on your hamstrings, glutes, and quadriceps as all of these are crucial for weight management.
- Wall-Sits
Wall-sits are one of the simplest and most effective exercises to build endurance in your calves and thighs.
Focus on Agility and Flexibility
The one who climbs up the human pyramid during the Dahi handi festival needs more flexibility and agility in their body. For quick balance in the top layer, you can practice the following exercises:
- Balance Training
Start with practising on balance boards. You can also try standing on a single foot while performing other tasks. It helps enhance your stability.
- Dynamic Stretching
Add high knees, butt kicks, and arm circles to your routine for Dahi handi festival celebrations. These activities warm up your muscles and improve flexibility.
Consume a Balanced Diet
Needless to say, when you focus on your physical strength, you need to give equal importance to your diet as well. Add carbohydrate and protein-rich foods to your diet before the zest unfolds. Diet and proper hydration provide necessary nutrients and energy to your body.
Rehearsals
As they say, ‘Practice makes a man perfect.’ Do multiple rehearsals and practice forming a human pyramid. You can start with smaller pyramids and then increase the layers. This better prepares you for the challenge.
Precautions to Take During Dahi Handi Festival
As Dahi handi has evolved into more like a sport, you need to be cautious about its safe celebrations. Here is a quick rundown of safety precautions:
- Ensure you wear all the safety equipment, including knee pads, helmets, and non-slippery footwear. It offers a strong grip and prevents you from falling.
- Take proper rest before the big celebration day to avoid any exertion in your body.
- Preset your signals for command at the time of the festival. It encourages clear communication.
Wrapping Up
Dahi handi festival is a celebration of team spirit and courage on the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami. It is an age-old prevalence of building a pyramid and breaking it to win rewards, and it asks for strength. You can improve it with some of the exercises, including lunges, squats, wall sits, and other tips. Ensure you have no injuries or weakness in your body before participating.
