A Pune-based dhol-tasha troupe has launched a signature campaign under the initiative ‘DJ and Dolby-free Processions’ to curb noise pollution during Ganesh Chaturthi and other festivals, reported news agency ANI. The campaign began on Sunday at Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir.
The initiative by Kalaawant Trust highlights concerns over loud sound systems in public processions despite laws, rules, and court directives. The Trust has demanded a strict ban on DJs, Dolby, and other high-decibel systems during religious and cultural events, anniversaries of national figures, and decorative rallies, according to a press release.
Representatives noted that visarjan processions in Latur, Solapur, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar were DJ-free this year, winning appreciation. However, the experience in Pune prompted the group to start a city-wide campaign, reported ANI.
Marathi actor and Kalaawant Trust chairman Saurabh Gokhale said nearly 3,000 signatures have been collected both online and offline. The memorandum will be submitted to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Campaign drives will continue across Pune over the next three Sundays.
“Our initiative is a small but sincere effort to protect citizens, preserve our cultural traditions, and restore peace in public celebrations. We are not against festivals or devotional expressions, but against the misuse of high-decibel DJ, Dolby, and sound systems that cause health issues, disturb communities, and disrespect the sanctity of our traditions. With honest intentions, we seek public support to ensure that festivities remain joyous, safe, and culturally enriching,” Gokhale told ANI.
was also briefed on the initiative during a programme at Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir. Several dhol-tasha performers from Kalaawant Pathak participated in the drive to promote traditional instruments and art forms as alternatives to DJs.
Speaking to the media in Pune, CM Devendra Fadnavis said the government’s approach aligns with citizens’ demand for DJ-free festivals.
“As far as the issue of DJ (Dolby sounds) free festivals is concerned, the role of the government is also the same. If you look at it on a larger scale, the number of people playing DJs during this Ganesh festival has reduced considerably. In metropolitan cities, it has almost completely stopped. We have also taken action in some places against DJ sounds. The government’s intention is not just to say ‘don’t play,’ but to create more awareness among people so that they themselves decide not to play DJs during festivals. That is a better approach, and it will have a long-lasting impact,” he said.
Kalaawant Trust, which runs the well-known Kalaawant Pathak in , has long been engaged in promoting traditional performing arts, preserving cultural practices, and encouraging youth participation. The Trust believes reducing noise pollution while reviving traditional instruments will make festivals more sustainable and inclusive.