Ganpati’s noise battle puts DJs on the mute

A nine-year-old boy named Vivek Kalse began experimenting with speakers, developing a fascination for music and how different sounds could influence a room's atmosphere. By the age of 18, this curiosity transformed into a career as a disc jockey. Currently 24, Kalse is studying audio engineering in Ahmedabad while still working as a DJ in Kalyan. However, during this year's Ganeshotsav, his focus is split between perfecting his skills and following a debate that could significantly impact his livelihood.

The issue started with a Pune resident calling for a ban on DJs during the Ganeshotsav festival. This demand has evolved into a broader discussion regarding excessive noise from sound systems. The ruling Mahayuti is divided on the extent of restrictions, while the question of whether DJs should be banned or if existing noise limits should be strictly enforced remains unresolved.

For around 200,000 DJs in Maharashtra, as per the Professional Audio and Lighting Association (PALA), this controversy transcends music or noise; it's about their profession that supports a network of sound rental companies, technicians, and loaders, requiring substantial financial investments.

Behind the DJ console is a complex setup including speakers, amplifiers, consoles, sound technicians, and loaders. A professional setup can cost anywhere between Rs 25 lakh and Rs 30 lakh. This investment is crucial for DJs like Sandeep Bhoir, who runs Ashok Pro Sound and Lights. Bhoir's business has evolved from cassette players and CD players to digital systems.

He notes that maintaining this equipment requires continuous financial investment, often necessitating loans. For DJs, the monsoon season is typically a slow period, with bookings picking up with Navratri, weddings, school and college events, and reaching a peak during wedding season until June. However, Ganeshotsav, falling within this calendar, has arrived at an uncertain time, affecting bookings and earnings.