Pune Ganeshotsav: 5,000 dhol-tasha performers to attempt world record

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has planned a concert by 5,000 dhol tasha (drummers) performers at SP College ground on August 23, to set a world record on the occasion of the 125th year of Ganeshotsav.

This will be part of the celebrations that will be inaugurated by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis at Shaniwarwada on August 12. The mascot of the festival, theme song, mobile app and festival symbol will also be launched by the chief minister, said mayor Mukta Tilak at a press conference on Thursday. 

Mayor and Leader of the House Srinath Bhimale said that PMC has organised various programmes to celebrate the festival which will run over a month. 

The civic body has already contacted various dhol tasha groups and they are practicing for the record event. PMC has also approached various agencies seeking permission for the programme. 

At the Baburao Sanas sports ground, 3,000 students will create ecofriendly Ganesh idols in an attempt to create another world record. This will be held on August 24. PMC has also organised a two-wheeler bike rally on August 20, which will have riders in traditional outfits. 

Foreign tourists visiting the city for the Ganesh festival is expected to be as many as 1,500 people, according to PMC estimates. Bhimale said that PMC is still trying to rope in Sachin Tendulkar as brand ambassador for the festival.

Additional municipal commissioner Prerana Deshbrathar has appealed to Ganesh mandals to take care of public property while setting up pandals. She also said that despite appeals if the mandals do not follow instructions, the PMC will take action against them. 

Events 

- 12 August- Inauguration of the 125th year of Ganesh festival year by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis at Shaniwarwada 

- 20 August- Bike rally  

- 23 August – Over 3,000 dhol tasha players perform at SP College Ground 

- 24 August - More than 3,000 students will make ecofriendly Ganesh idols at Baburao Sanas Ground.