Mumbai, Sep 5 (IANS) Emphasising the need for wide public participation to build a healthy and addiction-free society, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday called upon youth to stay away from substance abuse and contribute to nation-building.
He urged that the high-energy Dahi Handi festival be used as a platform to strengthen the “Drug-Free Maharashtra” initiative.
He made these remarks while visiting various prominent Dahi Handi celebrations across Worli, Dadar, and Ghatkopar.
Speaking at an event organised by the Rajyog Pratishthan in Worli, the Chief Minister appealed to every citizen to take a pledge against addiction and spread the message of a drug-free lifestyle within their families and communities.
The event saw the presence of Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde, Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar, along with MLAs Kalidas Kolambkar, Pravin Darekar, Ram Kadam, and Amit Satam.
Addressing another major gathering at Shreyas Cinema Junction in Ghatkopar—organised by MLA Ram Kadam — CM Fadnavis highlighted that Dahi Handi is not just a festival, but a celebration of Maharashtra’s rich tradition, youth adventure, and collective team spirit.
He lauded the enthusiasm, determination, and discipline displayed by the participating Govinda troupes.
“The human pyramids formed during Dahi Handi are a prime example of coordinated effort,” CM Fadnavis said.
“From the strong foundation laid by the Govindas at the base to the young child reaching the top tier, every individual’s coordination, trust, and courage make this sport successful. Ghatkopar’s Dahi Handi has evolved into a major cultural spectacle drawing teams from across the country,” he added.
Festivities kicked off with grand enthusiasm as thousands of citizens gathered to witness the rhythmic beats of dhol-tasha drums, chants of “Govinda Aala Re”, and the thrill of multi-tiered human pyramids.
CM Fadnavis inaugurated the Rajyog Pratishthan event by breaking a symbolic Dahi Handi, following which a banner promoting the “Drug-Free Maharashtra” campaign was unveiled alongside attending public representatives and dignitaries.
He later visited the Jambori Maidan in Worli to attend the Dahi Handi organised by the Parivartan Foundation, extending his best wishes to the troupes.
Saying that the festival instills values of teamwork, leadership, hard work, and goal-achievement among youth, Chief Minister Fadnavis reiterated that the safety of participating Govindas remains a top priority, advising troupes to take all necessary safety precautions while attempting tall pyramids.
–IANS
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