Ganpati Celebrations: ‘DJ Noise Similar To An Earthquake’: Maharashtra CM Fadnavis Roots For Traditions Over Decibels Ahead Of Ganeshotsav

Ahead of the Ganeshotsav festival, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed concern over the noise generated by DJ systems, likening it to an earthquake. In an interview with reporters in Pune, Fadnavis called for traditional celebrations, emphasizing the importance of reaching consensus among all stakeholders to ensure the joy of festivals is not compromised by excessive noise. He urged people to be taken into confidence and work together to celebrate the Ganpati festival in a traditional manner.

Fadnavis highlighted the growing trend of using DJ systems during festivities, pointing out that as of now, no major Ganesh mandals in Mumbai have sought clearance to use such systems. He stressed the need for dialogue and consensus-building among all stakeholders to address the issue of noise pollution during the festival. The chief minister also reiterated that the joy of celebrating festivals increases when they are observed traditionally.

The Mumbai Police have reiterated the no-DJ rule during the festival, following directions from the Bombay High Court in 2018. Police officials are prepared to enforce the restrictions strictly, with decibel meters to be provided to officers deployed at key locations such as Lalbaug, Girgaon, and Juhu Chowpatty. The permissible noise level is set at 55 dB during the day and 45 dB at night. Violators will face penalties, and repeated offenders could be denied permission to celebrate the festival in the following year.