The Maharashtra government has stepped up discussions around the use of high-decibel DJ systems during the festive season, with several ministers calling for tighter restrictions on loud music and a return to more traditional forms of celebration.
The issue has gained attention ahead of Ganeshotsav, with different parts of the state adopting varying approaches towards DJs, Dolby systems and other high-volume sound setups.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has advocated for celebrations that do not rely on high-decibel DJ systems, calling for a return to traditional ways of celebrating festivals. He has also indicated that the state government is working towards building a consensus on restricting the use of high-volume DJ systems during festivals.
Maharashtra Minister Madhuri Misal has separately called for a uniform ban on high-decibel DJ systems and large speaker setups during festivals. She said that celebrations should not cause inconvenience to citizens, particularly students and senior citizens, and suggested that traditional musical instruments could be used instead.
At the same time, there is no uniform position across the state or even within the ruling alliance. Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam has supported the continuation of sound and music during Hindu festivals, while ministers Sanjay Shirsat and Meghana Bordikar have taken a stronger position against DJ systems. State Culture Minister Ashish Shelar has said that local administrations and residents should have a role in deciding whether DJs are used.
The differing positions have also translated into different rules across Maharashtra. In Pune, police have introduced a limit of four bass and four top speakers for festivals and warned of action for violations of noise pollution norms. In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, authorities have permitted DJs subject to conditions, including a limit of two tops and two bass units and restrictions on plasma and pressure-mid speakers.
Several other districts have taken a stricter approach. Authorities in Latur and Nanded have moved to restrict DJ music, Dolby systems and other high-volume amplification equipment during Ganeshotsav. Nanded has imposed a wider restriction on sound amplification systems citing concerns around noise pollution and its impact on public health.
In Mumbai, the position remains particularly restrictive, with police reiterating that DJ systems will not be permitted during Ganeshotsav in accordance with existing noise pollution restrictions and court directions.
For the live events and entertainment industry, the developing regulations could have a direct impact on festive processions, public celebrations, DJ-led events and sound production requirements. With different cities and districts following different rules, event organisers, production companies and sound vendors will need to closely track local permissions and noise regulations before planning festive events.
As Ganeshotsav approaches, the debate is increasingly centred on finding a balance between the cultural and entertainment aspects of public celebrations and the need to control noise pollution. With the state yet to establish one uniform approach across Maharashtra, local administration and police directions are likely to remain critical for event planning during the festive season.
