Archive · 2 Sep 2026
Pune Sound Operators Seek Uniform Ganeshotsav Rules, Oppose Blanket Ban
Sound system operators in Pune are asking for clear rules before Ganeshotsav.
They say they will obey limits on noise and time.
They do not want all sound systems to be banned.
The operators say many people depend on this seasonal work for income.
They also say equipment and bookings have been affected by the uncertainty.
The group wants the same rules to apply to every Ganesh mandal.
It has asked the administration, police and municipal authorities to reconsider the restrictions.
If nothing changes, the operators may hold protests after Dahi Handi.
The Pune District Sound System Owners Association has urged authorities to create clear, uniform rules instead of imposing a blanket ban.
The association says it is ready to follow noise limits and operating hours set by the government.
Operators claim restrictions and uncertainty have caused losses, affected bookings and left equipment worth crores unused.
The association says the seasonal industry provides employment to nearly 30,000 people.
Members may protest after Dahi Handi if restrictions and opposition to DJs and sound systems continue.
- Who
- The Pune District Sound System Owners Association, including president Ganesh Kalbhor and vice-president Sagar Sutar.
- What
- The association is seeking clear, uniform noise and timing rules and opposing a blanket ban on sound systems.
- When
- Ahead of Ganeshotsav; the association said it may protest after the Dahi Handi event if its demands remain unaddressed.
- Where
- Pune.
- Why
- Operators say they are willing to follow regulations but need predictable rules to protect their seasonal businesses and the livelihoods of workers.
Sound System Operators
Restrictions Supporters and Authorities
Blanket ban versus regulated use
Sound System Operators
The association says it does not oppose enforcement against violators but wants sound systems allowed under clear noise and timing limits.
Restrictions Supporters and Authorities
Restrictions and a campaign by some Pune residents against DJs and sound systems have created uncertainty over whether and how the systems can operate.
Uniform enforcement
Sound System Operators
Operators want one set of rules applied uniformly to all Ganesh mandals and have suggested police deployment where mandal competitions increase sound levels.
Restrictions Supporters and Authorities
The association says current restrictions and enforcement decisions have not provided the clarity or consistency it is seeking.
Public regulation versus livelihoods
Sound System Operators
The association says the seasonal industry supports nearly 30,000 people and that restrictions threaten operators' incomes and families.
Restrictions Supporters and Authorities
Those opposing DJs and sound systems, along with authorities imposing restrictions, are focused on limiting sound-system use, though the article does not state their detailed positions.
- Association
- Pune District Sound System Owners Association
- Employment claimed
- Nearly 30,000 people
- Main concern
- Restrictions and uncertainty over sound-system use
- Requested policy
- One clear set of noise and timing rules applied uniformly to all mandals
- Compliance position
- The association says it will follow prescribed noise limits and timings
- Equipment impact
- The association says equipment worth crores is lying unused and bookings have been affected
- Possible action
- Members may stage a protest after Dahi Handi if demands are not met