Belagavi police ban DJ and plasma screens for Ganesh celebrations
Authorities have issued new rules prohibiting DJ equipment and plasma displays at Ganesh Chaturthi events in the city.
Belagavi police have rolled out a set of directives aimed at curbing the use of certain electronic equipment during the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi festivities. According to The Hindu, the guidelines specifically forbid Ganesh Mandals from employing DJ systems and plasma display screens as part of their celebrations.
The prohibition is intended to reduce excessive noise and visual distractions that can disturb nearby residents and strain local infrastructure. By limiting these high‑volume and high‑intensity devices, officials hope to maintain a calmer atmosphere while still allowing traditional worship and community gatherings to proceed.
Ganesh Chaturthi, a major Hindu festival that marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, draws large crowds across Karnataka. In recent years, many mandals have incorporated modern sound systems, light shows, and large screens to enhance the visual appeal of the idol installations. While such additions attract devotees, they also raise concerns about noise pollution, traffic congestion, and safety, prompting police in several cities to issue preventive measures.
The Belagavi directive aligns with a broader pattern of municipal authorities regulating festival activities to balance cultural expression with public order. Similar restrictions have been observed in other Karnataka districts, where limits on loudspeaker volume, fireworks, and crowd size are enforced during the ten‑day celebration. These steps are part of routine policing strategies that aim to prevent disturbances and ensure that the religious observance does not interfere with the daily lives of non‑participants.
Mandals in Belagavi are expected to comply with the new rules and may face penalties for violations. The police have also urged organizers to coordinate with local officials for crowd management and to keep pathways clear for emergency services. The guidelines come ahead of the festival's peak days, giving communities time to adjust their plans accordingly.
The move reflects an ongoing effort by Karnataka’s law‑enforcement agencies to modernize festival management without stifling the devotional spirit that defines Ganesh Chaturthi. By focusing on specific sources of noise and visual clutter, the Belagavi police aim to create a more orderly and respectful environment for both worshippers and residents alike.
This report is based on original reporting by The Hindu. Read the original source →