Drummers thrilled to be back in action after 2 years

Nashik: Covid restrictions on gathering of people in the past two years had a huge impact on the drummers’ groups. Their instruments, including dhol and tasha, were not put to appropriate use. In many cases, the ropes and covers of the instruments were damaged. Also, the rings suffered due to disuse.
“When in use, the instruments undergo less damage than when lying unused.In the past two years, the instruments had been kept locked away,” said Shaunak Gaidhani, the director of a Dhol Tasha Pathak in Nashik.
The damaged equipment has, however, failed to dampen the spirits of drummers as well as enthusiasts who are clamouring to get entry into the drummer squads that will be performing during the 10-day Ganeshotsav.
“Maintenance is a costly affair. The annual maintenance cost for each group has now gone up to Rs 1,200 — up from Rs 300-400 in the pre-Covid times. This is definitely burning a hole in the pocket for many, but the burden is being made lighter by enthusiasts,” Amy Chheda, director of another drummers’ group, said.
Preetam Bhamre, the director of yet another drummers group, said the enthusiasts are ready to shell out the money required for the maintenance of instruments.
“Beating drums and playing music can be a stress-buster, a recreational activity or or a form of exercise. people aged 6 to 60 are looking at the activity as per their own requirements. When we shared our issues with them, each of them was willing to contribute for the repairs of equipment,” Bhamre said.
Sheetal Jadhav, a city-based student who participates with a drummers’ group, said, “I love everything about Ganeshotsav. Speaking about drums, I look at it as an opportunity to offer my ‘art’ to the ‘God of Arts’. Paying a little extra is not an issue.”