Who Is Vidyanand Bapat & Why Has His DJ Ban Demand Triggered A Heated Pune Ganeshotsav Row?

Vidyanand Bapat, a resident of Narayan Peth in Pune, has become the center of attention due to his demand for a complete ban on DJs and loud sound systems during the Ganeshotsav festivities. The issue came to light during a Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) meeting aimed at discussing the preparations for Ganeshotsav 2026. As a result of Bapat's remarks, a heated exchange occurred between him and workers of Ganesh mandals. A video of the incident subsequently circulated on social media.

Bapat's position does not stem from an opposition to Ganeshotsav or religious freedom, but rather a concern over noise pollution and the use of loud sound systems in public spaces. He argues that these modern-day additions should not be considered an essential aspect of the traditional festival. Bapat cited areas like Narayan Peth, Laxmi Road, Kelkar Road, Bajirao Road, and Tilak Road, where residents are subjected to high noise levels during the festival.

Additionally, he pointed out that Pune now has a significant IT workforce, many of whom work night shifts or remotely, thus being more susceptible to the disruptive effects of loud music during the day and night.

In response to Bapat's demands, several Ganesh mandal workers at the PMC meeting opposed his stance. They insisted that restrictions should not be a blanket ban on DJs and music systems, but rather a more selective approach that avoids the use of plasma and laser lights, while still permitting sound systems. The heated argument eventually led to Bapat being escorted out of the meeting by police personnel.

Bapat maintained that his intention was to raise his concerns as a citizen, rather than as a representative of any Ganesh mandal.

BJP leader Dheeraj Ghate criticized Bapat's demand, suggesting that restrictions on excessive sound should not focus solely on Ganeshotsav, but rather extend to all religious and social events. However, Mohol, a Pune MP and Union Minister of State, took a more regulatory stance. He emphasized the need for Ganeshotsav celebrations to adhere to legal noise limits and court orders.

Mohol also argued that traditional dhol-tasha groups should not be subjected to unnecessary restrictions, and that the rules should be consistently applied across all festivals throughout the year.