Pune Ganeshotsav Must Be Celebrated Traditionally Without DJs: Punit Balan Advocates For ‘DJ-Free’ Festival
Pune, 26th August 2026: Prominent entrepreneur, social worker, and Trustee of the Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Trust, Punit Balan, has reiterated his firm stance calling for a completely “DJ-free” Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav in Pune, urging Ganesh mandals to uphold the city’s rich cultural heritage through traditional musical instruments like Dhol-Tasha.
Speaking to reporters during a mandal event in the city, Balan addressed ongoing debates surrounding the use of high-decibel DJ sound systems and laser walls during immersion processions.
Preserving Historical Legacy
Highlighting Pune’s historical significance as the birthplace of public Ganesh celebrations, Balan noted that the Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav was initiated in 1892 by Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari and expanded across the country by Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak in 1894.
“Pune has always been the epicentre of the Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav. It is my firm personal stance that this festival must be celebrated traditionally and culturally with traditional instruments. It should be entirely DJ-free. I will stand 100% behind every mandal that supports this vision,” Balan said.
Dhol-Tasha vs. DJ Sound Systems
Addressing questions regarding noise concerns associated with Dhol-Tasha troupes, Balan defended the traditional drum troupes, drawing a clear contrast between human drummers and mechanized sound walls.
Human Element: Drummers in Dhol-Tasha pathaks are human beings who exert physical effort and naturally moderate their energy over long processions, whereas electronic DJ machines play continuously without fatigue.
Cultural Decorum: Balan criticized the vulgar songs and inappropriate dancing often seen before giant DJ sound walls, contrasting it with traditional devotional music and vadan.
Compliance: He affirmed that Dhol-Tasha pathaks generally abide by police regulations and permissible decibel levels.
Growing Support Among Mandals
When asked about the backing for his campaign, Balan stated that around 150 to 200 Ganesh Mandals are already committed to celebrating the festival in a traditional, DJ-free manner. He expressed confidence that as the movement gains momentum, widespread support from citizens and mandals across Pune will continue to grow.
On Administration and Independence
Responding to queries about discussions at the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) coordination meetings and allegations of administrative pressure, Balan clarified that the police and municipal authorities operate as independent bodies.
He maintained that law enforcement agencies (police) formulate and enforce guidelines based on law and order requirements independently, while his appeal remains focused on preserving the cultural sanctity and tradition of Pune’s historic festival.
