Mumbaikars Trade Boardrooms for Dhol Beats

Last Sunday evening, approximately 50 Mumbaikars gathered to perform a grand 'Aagaman' ceremony for Ganpati, creating a powerful dhol Tasha performance. These individuals, by day holding positions such as senior executives, production managers, and engineers, come together on weekends to chase a beat that connects them to their roots and fosters a strong sense of brotherhood.

The transition from corporate life, filled with meetings and deadlines, to the rhythmic coordination of dhol Tasha is striking. For many, like Shreenath Anand Vemul, a production manager, playing the dhol for over a decade has been about emotion and discipline. Beatrice Dalgado, an executive assistant, cherishes how the instrument acts as the "heartbeat of our celebrations."

Balancing professional responsibilities and family with this passion is a significant challenge, as noted by Neelesh Vijay Bharankar, a vice president who started his own Pathak. Weekends once dedicated to family are now often filled with practices and performances, though family support aids his commitment.

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of these groups is the disappearance of hierarchy, with professionals from large companies playing shoulder-to-shoulder. Despite considerable physical demands, the collective devotion to the music sustains them. The ability to transform ordinary moments into memorable celebrations and express joy through rhythm is a key motivator.

For members like Beatrice, the dhol offers timing, teamwork, and stamina, but more importantly, it's a profound way to express joy during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Navratri. Similarly, for Shreenath, Ganeshotsav provides a powerful platform for the dhol's expression within Mumbai's collective soundscape.

Neelesh emphasizes the unforgettable feeling of a Pathak playing in perfect synchronisation, connecting with crowds, and carrying forward culture. What began as a hobby has evolved into a deep-seated emotion and responsibility for him. The dhol provides an immediate, visceral connection to people, tradition, and celebration, making the challenging commitment undeniably worthwhile.