19 September,2026 08:55 AM IST | Mumbai | Archana Dahiwal
In Pune last year, 50 of the 150 mandals shifted to traditional formats of Dhol-tasha instead of DJs. File pic/Satej Shinde
Pune's public Ganeshotsav could be heading back to its traditional and cultural roots, with a growing movement against DJs and excessive sound systems during processions. Punit Balan, trustee of the Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Trust, believes the transition has already begun and Pune can become completely DJ-free by 2031.
In an interaction with mid-day, Balan spoke about the need to preserve the original character of Pune's public Ganeshotsav, the 1892 Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati idol, the Trust's DJ-free campaign and its initiatives for this year's festival.
Excerpts from the interview.
Why does Pune need to move away from DJs and loud music?
Loud music is not what Punekars want. Festivals must bring people together happily, not disturb them. Sound systems spiked after 2006, and massive speaker walls exploded post-COVID in 2022, bringing vulgar dancing that insults our culture. If global Ganesh processions don't need DJ walls, Pune doesn't either. We must protect our traditional instruments.
Can Pune really become DJ-free?
Absolutely. If Solapur and Sambhajinagar did it, Pune can too. Last year, 50 of the 150 mandals we funded shifted to traditional formats. This year, 225 mandals joined us. I am confident that over the next five to six years, Pune will return to its traditional form of Ganeshotsav and become DJ-free by 2031.
How do you monitor the DJ-free pledge?
Mandals must sign a legal affidavit. Our monitoring team records video evidence of the processions. We release funding in two 50 per cent parts. If a mandal uses a DJ, they lose the second half and face a permanent funding ban. Last year, we blacklisted one violating mandal.
What can the police do?
Enforcement works. Pune police are now targeting both the mandals and the sound-system owners. Once DJ owners face legal action and financial losses, they will stop taking contracts, reducing the noise.
What can replace DJs?
Dhol-tasha, performances associated with the Warkari tradition, tal-mridang, halgi, and banjo. Even when banjo is used, there is no need to play inappropriate songs. Last year, our mandals used banjo but maintained the dignity of the celebration. The objective is not to stop music or enthusiasm.
What makes the 1892 Bhausaheb Rangari idol special?
Made by Bhausaheb Rangari in 1892, the eco-friendly idol is painted only with natural, chemical-free colours and has a unique three-dimensional structure. It balances on its hind legs, with the demon's and Ganpati's legs forming part of the composition, while one hand extends forward for balance. As a century-old idol, it requires delicate preservation and is handled only by a few senior people.
What are the Trust's key initiatives this year?
We reject VIP culture. Our morning Ekaishik Abhishek is totally free for all devotees. We run free medical camps with 15 blood test types. This year, we will conduct free eye checks and distribute 11,000 free spectacles.
What cultural programmes are planned? Finally, what should Pune's Ganeshotsav look like in 2031?
I want Pune to reclaim its cultural identity. Processions should echo with dhol-tasha and traditional arts, not speaker walls. We will achieve a completely DJ-free Ganeshotsav by 2031.
[popcorn number="225" desc="No. of mandals that joined the DJ-free campaign this year" class="Default"]
. Visionary who used Ganeshotsav to unite people
. Fought social divisions under British rule
. Promoted patriotism and national consciousness
. Left his property income for the festival
. His legacy continues through public Ganeshotsav
