Pune, September 13, 2024 : In a major relief for Pune’s vibrant Dhol-Tasha and Zanj troupes, the Supreme Court has stayed the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) decision that limited the number of performers to 30 per troupe for the upcoming Ganesh Visarjan. This order comes as a significant victory for local cultural groups who consider Dhol-Tasha the heart of Pune’s Ganesh festivities.
A bench led by Chief Justice Dhananjay Chandrachud, while hearing a petition challenging the NGT’s order, remarked, “Dhol-Tasha is the heart of Pune, let the troupes play it.” The court has issued a notice to the state government for further deliberations, while the final hearing is scheduled for October 4.
The NGT’s original order, issued on August 30, aimed at controlling noise pollution, mandated that no more than 30 performers be allowed in each Dhol-Tasha-Janj troupe. The tribunal also empowered local authorities to confiscate instruments if the rule was violated. However, advocates representing the cultural troupes argued that the directive was issued without proper consultation, and it would negatively impact Pune’s century-old Ganesh Visarjan tradition.
Hearing expert Dr. Kalyani Mandke had earlier filed a petition, leading to the NGT’s ruling, but the Supreme Court’s stay has now provided temporary relief. The Dhol Tasha Federation, represented by Parag Thakur, expressed gratitude, stating, “This is a much-needed opportunity for us to continue our cultural expression during the Visarjan procession.”
Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar confirmed that the city’s regulation of allowing 40 dhols and 10 tashas per troupe remains in effect for 2024, continuing a practice followed in recent years.
With the court’s interim stay, Pune’s Ganesh Visarjan procession this year will be louder and livelier, showcasing the city’s undying spirit and its deep cultural roots.
