Pediatric Orthopedic Injuries During Krishna Janmashtami: Prevention And Parental Role
Krishna Janmashtami, the celebration of Lord Krishna's birth, is one of India's most vibrant and energetic festivals. The Dahi Handi event where children and youth form tall human pyramids to break a pot of curd suspended high above the ground captures the essence of Krishna's playful spirit. But along with the excitement comes a real risk of injuries, especially among children and adolescents.
According to Dr Taral Nagda, Senior Consultant, Paediatric Orthopaedics, Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital, Mumbai, Janmashtami is not just a busy day for devotees — it's also a busy one for hospital emergency departments. 'We see injuries to the cervical spine, back, ankle, knee, wrist, and elbow joint. Shoulder and clavicle injuries are also common. These happen in two ways first, to the govindas making the pyramid when it collapses, and second, to people in the crowd observing the event."
Dr Vikas Ellur, Senior Consultant, Paediatric Orthopedic Surgeon at Narayana Health Hospital, notes that among children, the most common injuries include 'fractures of the forearm, wrist, or collarbone, sprains and strains from sudden jerks, dislocations of the shoulder or elbow, and in severe cases, head or spinal injuries." These accidents can happen from falls at higher levels of the pyramid or from slipping on wet surfaces.
Both experts stress that prevention must be a priority to keep the festival joyful and injury-free. 'It is important that govindas wear protective gear," says Dr. Nagda. 'This includes protection for the shoulder and clavicle, knee, elbows, and ankle. Training for days beforehand is essential, along with supervision at every centre to ensure safe practices. The height of the pyramid should be within safe limits, and very young children should never be allowed at the top — they can lose balance in the noisy, energetic environment, leading to disastrous injuries."
Parents also have an essential role in safeguarding children's participation. 'Educate your children about the risks, ensure they warm up and stretch, and supervise their role in the pyramid so they aren't pushed beyond their physical limits," advises Dr. Ellur. 'Ideally, younger children should be part of the base, not the upper levels. Event organizers must provide helmets, mats, harnesses, and cushioned surfaces like foam or sand to reduce injury from falls."
If an injury does occur, Dr. Ellur recommends immediate steps: 'Immobilize the injured area, apply ice with a cloth barrier to reduce swelling, and seek prompt medical attention. Never delay treatment early intervention can prevent long-term complications."
Dr. Nagda adds that safety rules should be strictly enforced by both organizers and participants so that Janmashtami 'remains a festival of celebration and not of pain and disability."
With thoughtful preparation, proper gear, and vigilant supervision, the spirit of Janmashtami can continue to shine ensuring that the joy of the festival outweighs the risks, and that every child goes home with memories, not injuries.
First Published:
August 14, 2025, 14:03 IST
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Pediatric Orthopedic Injuries During Krishna Janmashtami: Prevention And Parental Role
With thoughtful preparation, proper gear, and vigilant supervision, the spirit of Janmashtami can continue to shine ensuring that the joy of the festival outweighs the risks Krishna Janmashtami, the celebration of Lord Krishna's birth, is one of India's most vibrant and energetic festivals. The Dahi Handi event where children and youth form tall human pyramids to break a pot of curd suspended high above the ground captures the essence of Krishna's playful spirit. But along with the excitement comes a real risk of injuries, especially among children and adolescents. According to Dr Taral Nagda, Senior Consultant, Paediatric Orthopaedics, Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital, Mumbai, Janmashtami is not just a busy day for devotees — it's also a busy one for hospital emergency departments. 'We see injuries to the cervical spine, back, ankle, knee, wrist, and elbow joint. Shoulder and clavicle injuries are also common. These happen in two ways first, to the govindas making the pyramid when it collapses, and second, to people in the crowd observing the event." Dr Vikas Ellur, Senior Consultant, Paediatric Orthopedic Surgeon at Narayana Health Hospital, notes that among children, the most common injuries include 'fractures of the forearm, wrist, or collarbone, sprains and strains from sudden jerks, dislocations of the shoulder or elbow, and in severe cases, head or spinal injuries." These accidents can happen from falls at higher levels of the pyramid or from slipping on wet surfaces. Both experts stress that prevention must be a priority to keep the festival joyful and injury-free. 'It is important that govindas wear protective gear," says Dr. Nagda. 'This includes protection for the shoulder and clavicle, knee, elbows, and ankle. Training for days beforehand is essential, along with supervision at every centre to ensure safe practices. The height of the pyramid should be within safe limits, and very young children should never be allowed at the top — they can lose balance in the noisy, energetic environment, leading to disastrous injuries." Parents also have an essential role in safeguarding children's participation. 'Educate your children about the risks, ensure they warm up and stretch, and supervise their role in the pyramid so they aren't pushed beyond their physical limits," advises Dr. Ellur. 'Ideally, younger children should be part of the base, not the upper levels. Event organizers must provide helmets, mats, harnesses, and cushioned surfaces like foam or sand to reduce injury from falls." If an injury does occur, Dr. Ellur recommends immediate steps: 'Immobilize the injured area, apply ice with a cloth barrier to reduce swelling, and seek prompt medical attention. Never delay treatment early intervention can prevent long-term complications." Dr. Nagda adds that safety rules should be strictly enforced by both organizers and participants so that Janmashtami 'remains a festival of celebration and not of pain and disability." With thoughtful preparation, proper gear, and vigilant supervision, the spirit of Janmashtami can continue to shine ensuring that the joy of the festival outweighs the risks, and that every child goes home with memories, not injuries. First Published: August 14, 2025, 14:03 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
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Fruit and dairy-based fast for Janmashtami is best for people with good blood sugar control and some physical activity.(Shutterstock) Choosing the right fasting style for you Simrat said, 'Historically, vrat was not just religious or spiritual -- it was thought to rest the digestive system, promote mindful eating, and enhance self-control. Today, it can still provide these benefits when food choices are made carefully to ensure that nutrient depletion does not occur and there is no extreme dip in energy.' According to her, not all fasting styles are suitable for everyone, and your health level, activity level, and goals should dictate the kind of fast suitable for you. She explained: ⦿ Fruit and dairy-based fast for Janmashtami Simrat said, 'The fast is best for people with good blood sugar control and some physical activity. 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Remember, vrat is meant to give the body a break — not overload it at the end.(Shutterstock) Blood sugar management during fasts According to Simrat, patients with blood sugar disorders usually do not maintain normal blood sugar even during short fasting periods: 'Foods higher in carbohydrate content, such as sabudana and fruits, can be paired with curd, paneer, or nuts to slow down glucose release. Also, smaller, frequent meals can help the fasting person avoid energy crashes.' Mindfulness and portion control Simrat said, 'Once the fast is broken, the festive spirit pulls us toward overindulgence. Instead, break your fast gently with hydrating fluids, followed by a balancing meal. Remember, vrat is meant to give the body a break — not overload it at the end.' Sample modern-day vrat plate ⦿ Breakfast: coconut water + a handful of soaked almonds + papaya slices ⦿ Morning snack: roasted makhana tossed in rock salt and pepper ⦿ Lunch: samak rice khichdi with vegetables + cucumber raita ⦿ Evening: Herbal tea + date and walnut energy ball ⦿ Dinner: rajgira roti with paneer and mint chutney + warm milk with saffron The emotional and spiritual connection She added, 'Apart from the physical benefits, fasting on Janmashtami offers an opportunity to pause, think, and feel grateful. When we prepare some plain and wholesome food for the fast, we are connected to the very spirit of this festival: purity, balance, and devotion.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
