Shiv Thakare Says Ganpati Celebrations Should Stay Rooted in Dhol Tasha Tradition

As Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations get underway, actor and television personality Shiv Thakare has shared his thoughts on the ongoing restrictions around high-decibel DJ and Dolby sound systems during the festival. With police and district authorities in several states introducing restrictions on loud music, Shiv said he personally prefers celebrating the arrival of Ganpati Bappa through traditional music and customs rather than loud DJ setups.

Speaking about the restrictions, Shiv clarified that he was sharing his personal perspective rather than speaking on behalf of DJ bands. He said, “I’m not speaking on behalf of DJ bands; I’m sharing my own perspective. I feel that our country is recognized because of its traditions and culture. While we listen to DJs at various places throughout the year, I believe that occasions like Bappa’s arrival or Navratri should be celebrated with Dhol-Tasha Pathaks (traditional drum troupes)—there is a unique joy in that.” For Shiv, the traditional beats of a Dhol-Tasha Pathak bring a distinct energy to the festival while keeping the celebration connected to its cultural roots.

Shiv further revealed that his own Ganpati celebrations follow this traditional approach. He said, “That’s the tradition I follow; my Ganpati Bappa arrives accompanied by a Dhol-Tasha Pathak and the traditional Pheta (turban). This year, I will bring Bappa home seated atop a traditional bullock cart.” The actor’s plans highlight his desire to make the festival both festive and rooted in Maharashtrian traditions, with the traditional procession taking centre stage instead of amplified sound.

Shiv also welcomed Ganpati Bappa into his home with immense devotion and enthusiasm and extended his wishes to fans and followers on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. Sharing what the festival means to him, he said, “I wish everyone a very happy Ganesh Chaturthi. Whether the celebration lasts ten days or just one-and-a-half days, we wait eagerly for this time. I pray that Bappa fulfills everyone's dreams, keeps everyone healthy, and grants their wishes. Bappa feels like one of our own, and I am who I am today because of Him; He has given me so much.”

The festival also holds a particularly special place in Shiv’s life this year as he looks ahead to his movie debut. Reflecting on his journey and the belief surrounding the number nine, Shiv said, “They say this year belongs to the number nine—a number associated with my destiny. I used to be skeptical about such things, thinking, ‘Let’s see; if something good happens, then I’ll believe it.’ And things did start going well for me—it is all the grace of the Almighty, the Universe, Bappa, and my parents, as well as my fans—whom I consider family—because of whom I have become who I am.”

For Shiv Thakare, Ganpati is therefore not simply an annual celebration but an emotional reminder of his journey, his roots and the people who have supported him along the way. As he welcomes Bappa home with a Dhol-Tasha Pathak, traditional Pheta and a bullock cart this year, his celebrations are set to carry a distinctly traditional flavour. At a time when festival sound restrictions have sparked conversations across the country, Shiv’s message is clear: the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi can remain loud in emotion and devotion even when the speakers are turned down.