Pune Citizens Launch Petition Against DJs, Roadblocks During Festivals
Pune, 14th September 2025: As Pune gears up for Ganeshotsav and other festive celebrations, a section of citizens has raised serious concerns over the increasing use of DJs, laser lights, and roadblocks by several dahi handi, Ganpati mandals etc.
An online petition, addressed to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the state government, urges authorities to ban DJs and regulate the number of pandals on city roads. The petition highlights that while citizens respect the religious and cultural significance of these festivals, certain practices have become disruptive and disrespectful.
“Playing vulgar Bollywood songs on DJs and dancing inappropriately in front of Lord Ganesha or Lord Krishna is not part of our sacred tradition,” the petition states. It adds that true devotion lies in aartis, bhajans, and cultural practices that uphold dignity and heritage, not in creating noise and chaos.
Residents argue that senior citizens, pregnant women, and patients are among the worst affected, as ambulances and emergency vehicles often get stuck in traffic caused by multiple mandals and miravnuks in the same locality. “Our history and legacy of these festivals is rich with traditional dhol-tasha, aartis, and cultural pride. Why should we spoil it with DJs and lasers?” the plea asks.
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Concerns have also been raised about the impact of high-decibel speakers and laser lights on vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and animals. Petitioners allege that the current situation has also led to instances of public disorder, with intoxicated individuals misbehaving during processions.
The signatories have requested PMC to designate specific areas for large-scale celebrations so that festivities can continue without causing inconvenience. “If mandals want to play DJs and use lasers, they should book a private hall instead of disturbing citizens on the roads,” the petition adds.
While traditional dhol-tasha performances and cultural programs have been appreciated, the petition stresses that DJs “do no good to anyone” and must be “banned without exceptions.”
Authorities have yet to respond to the demands, but with Ganeshotsav underway, the debate between preserving tradition and managing modern celebrations has once again come to the fore in Pune.
