Bhubaneswar police have banned DJ music during upcoming Bhasani Utsav idol immersion processions and warned organisers that violations could lead to immediate equipment seizure and criminal cases. The restrictions have been announced as the city prepares for large public gatherings marking the conclusion of Dussehra celebrations.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Saravana Vivek M announced the decision, saying the prohibition was intended to maintain public order, preserve peace and comply with noise pollution guidelines. The order applies to immersion rallies in the capital and places responsibility on puja committees, procession organisers and participants to ensure that the restrictions are followed.
The police said thousands of devotees are expected to take part in the final immersion ceremonies. Heavy security has consequently been mobilised across Bhubaneswar for the processions and related public events. The announcement places high-decibel music systems at the centre of the enforcement plan, with officers authorised to seize equipment immediately if organisers do not comply.
The restrictions come as the city also prepares for Ravan Podi celebrations at nine designated locations. Authorities have mandated strict safety protocols for the customary effigy-burning events, although the report did not specify the individual measures or the names of the locations.
Bhasani Utsav processions involve the movement of large crowds and idols through public roads before immersion. The police announcement therefore combines noise-control enforcement with broader crowd and event-safety responsibilities for organisers. Puja committees and participants have been asked to cooperate with police and municipal teams during the celebrations.
The order also underlines the administrative challenge of managing festival events that use public spaces and city roads. Police, municipal teams, organisers and participants must coordinate the movement of processions and the conduct of celebrations while ensuring that public-order and noise-related requirements are observed.
Authorities have not provided further details in the supplied report on the number of personnel deployed, the route plan for immersion processions, the applicable criminal provisions or the timing of the restrictions. The Commissionerate Police has appealed for cooperation to ensure that the festive season concludes peacefully and safely.
