Durga Puja: Traditional dhol and band players thrive as DJs are banned

Bhubaneswar: With the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack gearing up for the grand Durga Puja celebrations, traditional dhol and band players are expecting brisk business this season. The govt’s ban on DJs during the festival, citing rising concerns over noise pollution, has brought fresh hope for local drummers, ‘dhakis’, and traditional bands.

From Punjabi dhols to Bengal’s dhakis, groups are now busy rehearsing popular and fusion beats to enthral devotees during the festivities. “Though last year the govt banned DJs, this year we are a bit hopeful of a stricter implementation. Durga Puja pandals have started booking us not only for the five-day puja but also for the immersion procession,” said Ramesh Pradhan, a dhol player from Cuttack, who has been performing during puja for the last 15 years.

“This year is going to be special for us. The ban on DJs has given us a chance to showcase our art in front of bigger crowds. We are preparing a mix of traditional rhythms along with some Bollywood-inspired beats to keep the younger generation hooked,” said Pradhan.

Event organisers in Bhubaneswar echoed similar sentiments. “The essence of Durga Puja lies in the sound of dhols, conchs, and dhaks. DJs overshadowed this traditional charm in recent years. With the ban in place, we are returning to the roots. Last year we had the popular dhol-tasha from Maharashtra, which added to the grandeur of Durga Puja,” said Sachi Nandan Nayak, secretary of a prominent puja committee in Bhubaneswar.

Young drummers are also adding innovation to their performances. “We are experimenting with fusion, blending dhol beats with modern instruments like keyboards and flutes. The response during rehearsals has been fantastic,” said Krishna Rao, a Punjabi dhol player in Bhubaneswar.

Residents too seem delighted with the shift. “DJ music was just noise; it often disturbs the elderly and children. The sound of dhol and dhak connects us to tradition and creates a festive vibe,” said Ananya Mishra, a college student. Over 300 community Durga Puja pandals will come up in the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.