Pune Citizens Push for Quieter Celebrations
In Pune, a growing citizens' movement is advocating for quieter celebrations free from DJ and Dolby sound systems. This initiative, led by the Kalaawant Trust, aims to raise awareness about the adverse effects of high-decibel sound during public festivities. The campaign kicked off on September 14 at Bal Gandharv Rangmandir, seeking signatures to support this cause.
According to Saurabh Gokhale, Chairman of Kalaawant Trust, this movement is not against festivals or expressions of devotion but is focused on protecting citizens from the health hazards and disturbances caused by loud music systems. "We want to ensure that celebrations remain joyous, safe, and culturally enriching," he stated. The campaign has already garnered over 3,000 signatures in just one day, both online and offline.
The Kalaawant Trust, known for its vibrant dhol tasha performances, is actively involved in various social initiatives in Pune, including blood donation camps and music concerts. Gokhale has urged the public to participate in the campaign by adding their signatures, emphasizing that the movement is designed to involve all sections of society.
Furthermore, the initiative aims to address the issue of noise pollution, particularly during religious festivals and processions. Gokhale plans to present a memorandum to the Chief Minister highlighting the campaign's objectives. He stressed the importance of community participation in the process.
Dr. Padmakar Pandit, a retired professor, pointed out that noisy processions not only create traffic jams but also pose health risks. "High-decibel DJ systems can cause temporary or permanent hearing damage and the bright lights used can affect vision," he noted. This social nuisance impacts not just those traveling but also nearby residents, especially children and the elderly.
Dr. Pandit advocates for increased awareness about the negative effects of such celebrations, stating that it is a social problem that should concern everyone, regardless of the festival's nature. "We must work together to minimize noise pollution to zero," he urged, calling for collective responsibility among citizens.
This movement in Pune is a significant step toward fostering a more peaceful and culturally respectful environment during public celebrations, showing the power of community engagement in addressing social issues.
