Thane | September 8, 2026
Thane-based social worker Dr Mahesh Bedekar has issued an open letter addressing noise pollution and what he described as the declining standards of some public festivals in Maharashtra. The letter follows renewed public discussion around loud music, processions and performances at civic celebrations, including debates over a DJ ban in Pune and incidents reported during Dahi Handi festivities in Mumbai, Thane and other locations.
Bedekar said his objection was not to festivals belonging to any particular religion, but to what he called the changing and disruptive form of public celebrations. He argued that the issue extended beyond individual events to year-round public anniversaries, processions and other gatherings where residents may be exposed to excessive noise.
The letter refers to health concerns associated with high noise exposure, including temporary or permanent hearing damage, tinnitus, sleep disruption, fatigue, stress and elevated blood pressure. Bedekar also cited possible risks for children, older people and pregnant women. These observations were presented in the letter with reference to reported World Health Organization findings; the report does not include an independent response from health authorities.
Bedekar also criticised a dance performance held during a recent festival, describing it as inappropriate for a public setting where people of different age groups are present. He said that opposition from citizens was necessary to prevent such performances from becoming accepted under the name of culture.
The letter refers to the public-interest litigation Dr Mahesh Bedekar versus the State of Maharashtra, identified in the report as PIL 173 of 2010, and places responsibility for implementing the related judgment on both the administration and society. It also acknowledges earlier interventions by citizens who raised concerns about noise pollution and public festivals.
Bedekar concluded by calling for Maharashtra’s traditional festivals to be celebrated in a disciplined and culturally respectful manner. The report does not detail any new government order, enforcement action or official response following the letter.
