Pune: More than 200 Ganesh mandals in Pune have joined a campaign to celebrate this year’s Ganeshotsav without DJs and high-volume sound systems, giving a fresh push to traditional and quieter festivities.

The initiative, announced by Punit Balan, Festival Head of the Shreemant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Mandal Trust, comes amid growing concern over noise pollution during major festivals. Participating mandals are expected to focus on traditional celebrations, including dhol-tasha performances and cultural programmes, while avoiding excessive use of amplified sound.

The move also comes as Pune Police prepare to enforce existing noise regulations more strictly during Ganeshotsav and Dahi Handi. Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar has made it clear that celebrations will be allowed, but sound systems operating beyond permitted limits will face action. Authorities have also warned against the use of high-intensity equipment such as plasma speakers and pressure-mid systems.

Preparations for the festival are already underway, with police, civic officials and Ganesh mandal representatives discussing permissions, crowd management, traffic, safety and noise control. The PMC has also issued guidelines aimed at ensuring that celebrations do not disrupt public movement or inconvenience residents.

The support from more than 200 mandals could strengthen the push for a festival that preserves Pune’s cultural traditions while reducing excessive noise and its impact on residents.

Ganeshotsav in Pune will begin on September 14, 2026. The festival will conclude with Anant Chaturdashi on September 25.