Pune Ganeshotsav 2024: Supreme Court Suspends Limit on Dhol-Tasha Members for Ganpati Visarjan Processions

The Supreme Court has granted some relief to the Dhol-Tasha-Janj squads by staying the National Green Tribunal (NGT West Zone) order that had restricted the number of members allowed in immersion processions. Chief Justice Dhananjay Chandrachud and the bench issued a notice to the Maharashtra government, Pune authorities, and others, stating that the playing of dhol, tasha, and drums is permissible within Pune's boundaries. This order has been a cause for celebration among the drum teams.

Pune's Ganeshotsav is renowned for its glorious tradition of "Dholtasha," which is a major attraction of the festival. Devotees from across Maharashtra and beyond come to Pune Ganeshotsav specifically to experience the phenomenal performances of Dholtasha troupes. Each troupe creates unique rhythms to captivate the audience during the Visarjan procession.

However, on August 30, the NGT had imposed limits on the number of Dhol-Tasha-Janj troupes allowed during the immersion processions. The order also included provisions for the police to confiscate materials in case of violations and for the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board to measure noise pollution during the processions. This order had dampened the spirits of the Dholtasha teams.

In response, a petition was filed in the Supreme Court challenging the NGT's order. Chief Justice Dhananjay Chandrachud, along with Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Mishra, heard the petition on Thursday (12th) and decided to stay the NGT's order. As a result, there will be no restrictions on the number of members in the Dhol-Tasha-Janj teams, ensuring that the festivities can proceed with full enthusiasm.