Sunday began with a rude shock for citizens across the city, as they were jolted awake with the banging of practising dhol pathaks. Yesterday alone, the Mumbai Police control room received 10 complaints, while at least five others expressed their outrage on Twitter. On the other hand, the troupes argue that with just weeks left for the festive season, they need time and space to practise.

With July here, hundreds of youths can be spotted zealously drumming away at parks, roads, flyovers and pretty much any public space. Their favourite places to practice by far are the city's flyovers, since they provide shelter from rain. But there's nothing protecting the citizens from the din they make every evening, and all through the day during weekends.