"Unlocking the Health Benefits of Gokulashtami Fasting"

Festivals are something that we always look forward to as they break the monotony of our routine lives and bring fun and frolic.

Gokulashtami or Krishna Janmashtami (also known as Utlotsavam in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana) which celebrates the birth of lord Krishna is one such festival that brings tremendous joy and positive energy.

Dahi Handi, Govinda Pathak, and Gopal Kala are the salient features of this festival.

Gopal Kala or Dahi Kala, which is a healthy, sumptuous, and nutritionally balanced snack, is prepared in a Potluck style. Kids bring all the ingredients, mix them; add the curd that they get from the Dahi Handi (a clay pot containing curd), and consume it as Prasad (religious offering). Two major ingredients are ‘makhan-chor’s favorite curd and Sudamyache – (Krishna’s friend) Pohe (flattened rice). Other ingredients and recipes might vary from region to region.

_{Gopal Kala – Photo clicked by Dr. Aabha}

Nutritional benefits of Gopal Kala

Flattened Rice – carbohydrates, vitamin B3, Iron, and some protein.
Popped Jowar – carbohydrates, fiber, proteins, minerals like calcium, magnesium, and vitamins – B1, B2, B3, E.
Curd – proteins, minerals like calcium, magnesium, vitamin B12.
Cucumber – water, potassium and other minerals, vitamin C and other vitamins
Ginger – antioxidant

Dahi Handi is nothing but a human pyramid raised to obtain the dahi handi which is hung at a sufficient distance.

Physical Benefits of Dahi Handi Pyramid

The lower layers need to be strong and sturdy as others are going to stand on their shoulders.

The upper layers along with body strength, need to be flexible and have a strong core as they have to climb a few layers up without much support.

They all need to have coordination, focus, and a firm grip.

Though the festival is celebrated for a single day, the Govinda Pathak need to practice and maintain their fitness throughout the year.

Social and Mental Health Benefits

Since we connect with friends and families and get involved in various activities; this festival helps us balance our emotions and can be a great stress buster for us.
There is togetherness, family bonds, the value of sharing, and accepting differences.
Our kids learn about our roots and culture – festivals are life lessons for them
Gopal Kala or Dahi Kala imbibes inclusivity (Krishna was a Prince, yet he made friendships with others; all the kids were from different backgrounds. That is why Krishna introduced the idea of Kala (mixing up all the food his friends brought). That is why apart from flattened rice and curd, other ingredients vary.
The Govind Pathak teaches us to understand and respect each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

Krishna lived his life like it was a festival. He always wanted to be at his best for everyone around him. – Sadguru

Let us learn this attribute from him and enjoy the festival.

Happy Gokulashtami!

–Dr. Aabha Pimprikar is a Life Skills Trainer, and Founder and President, of DAGMHI 3030 (Mental Health Initiative to Promote Mental Health Awareness)