Subheadline: A citywide screening initiative has so far examined more than 2,500 performers, with low haemoglobin, high cholesterol and vitamin deficiencies among the reported findings.
Pune | September 8, 2026
A health-screening campaign for Pune’s dhol-tasha players has found health problems in about two of every 10 performers examined so far, organisers and doctors said. The initiative was launched ahead of the city’s Ganeshotsav processions, when performers take part in extended and physically demanding rehearsals and marches.
The screening is being conducted by the Dhol-Tasha Mahasangh, Pune city committee, with support from Sahyadri Saraswati Karad Hospital. More than 2,500 performers have been examined so far as part of a phased programme intended to cover players from the city’s estimated 170 dhol-tasha groups.
According to the report, the examinations include blood tests, haemoglobin, white blood cell and platelet counts, vitamins B and D, height, weight and blood-group checks. Doctors reported cases of unsatisfactory haemoglobin levels, increased body-fat levels, high cholesterol and vitamin deficiencies among those screened.
Dr Tushar Khachane, chief executive officer of Saraswati Karad Hospital, said about two in every 10 performers examined had unsatisfactory haemoglobin levels or other reported health concerns. The report did not provide a detailed breakdown of the conditions or identify how many participants required medical treatment.
The organisers said Pune has around 170 groups, with an average of about 200 performers in each. The screening is being carried out in stages, with the stated objective of reaching approximately 15,000 performers. The report identifies the participants as being above 18 years of age.
Parents of performers are also being screened. Doctors involved in the campaign said health problems were found in approximately 30% to 35% of the parents examined, though the report did not specify the total number screened.
Separately, the Pune branch of the Indian Medical Association is conducting CPR training under its ‘Sanjeevani’ initiative. The programme began on August 16 and is expected to involve more than 800 dhol-tasha performers, according to Dr Alka Kshirsagar, president of the association’s Pune branch. The organisers said the health screenings and training would continue in phases.
