Archive · 15 Sep 2025
Women Dhakis From Bengal Perform Despite Concerns
Some women dhakis from Katwa, West Bengal, are going to perform in Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand for Durga Puja.
They're doing this because they can make much more money than performing in Calcutta.
While some dhakis are afraid of traveling outside Bengal, these women decided to take the chance.
They are also getting some support from the state government.
On the other hand, many male dhakis from Alipurduar have refused offers, citing concerns about the harassment of Bengali-speaking people.
At least 30 women dhakis from Katwa will perform in UP and Jharkhand.
Some male dhakis in Alipurduar are refusing lucrative contracts due to safety concerns.
The women dhakis are going to earn more during Durga Puja outside of Bengal.
The women dhakis receive a monthly honorarium from the West Bengal government.
Katwa is home to six women dhaki teams that perform regularly.
- Who
- Women dhakis from Katwa, and some male dhakis in Alipurduar.
- What
- Dhaki teams are accepting performance offers in Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand.
- When
- During Durga Puja season.
- Where
- Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Katwa in West Bengal.
- Why
- To earn extra income during the festival season.
Dhakis who Refuse
Dhakis who Accept
Safety Concerns
Dhakis who Refuse
Many male dhakis refuse to perform outside Bengal due to the alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking people.
Dhakis who Accept
Women dhakis accept offers, balancing risk against potential for greater earnings.
- Location
- Katwa, East Burdwan, West Bengal
- Performances
- Durga Puja in UP & Jharkhand
- Dhakis traveling
- At least 30 women
- Monthly Honorarium
- ₹1,000 (from state government)
- Outside Bengal earnings
- ₹20,000 for six days
- Existing Dhaki Teams
- Six in Katwa