Celebrate Festivals Without Causing Inconvenience to Others, Says Minister Ashish Shelar in Pune

Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar urged people in Pune to celebrate festivals with enthusiasm while respecting other citizens and avoiding inconvenience.

Pune, September 19, 2026: Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar has called for festivals to be celebrated with enthusiasm while ensuring that celebrations do not cause inconvenience to other citizens.

Speaking in Pune during Ganeshotsav, Shelar said festivals are an important part of Maharashtra’s cultural tradition and should be celebrated in a manner that respects the rights and comfort of others.

His remarks come amid ongoing discussions in Pune over noise levels, traffic congestion and the impact of large-scale celebrations on residents during the Ganesh festival.

Emphasis on Responsible Celebrations

Shelar said citizens should enjoy the festive atmosphere while also considering how their celebrations affect others.

The minister’s comments come at a time when Pune authorities have introduced several measures for managing crowds, traffic and sound levels during Ganeshotsav.

Pune Police have been monitoring compliance with noise regulations during processions and celebrations, while authorities have also made special arrangements for the large crowds expected in central parts of the city.

Noise Rules Remain a Key Issue

The use of DJs and amplified sound has been one of the major issues surrounding this year’s Ganeshotsav.

Pune authorities have permitted loudspeakers and DJs until midnight on five specified festival days — September 19, 20, 22, 23 and 25 — while the usual 10 pm restriction applies on other days. The relaxation remains subject to applicable noise limits.

The issue has also prompted legal and civic concerns, with Pune resident Vidyanand Bapat sending a legal notice to senior police, civic and pollution-control authorities seeking stricter enforcement of noise and other festival-related regulations.

Balancing Tradition and Public Convenience

Pune’s Ganeshotsav attracts large crowds to public mandals, processions and cultural programmes across the city.

While festival organisers have sought sufficient space and flexibility to conduct traditional celebrations, residents and civic groups have raised concerns about noise, traffic obstruction and access for pedestrians and emergency vehicles.

Against this backdrop, the minister’s appeal highlights the need to balance public celebrations with the everyday needs of residents.

Authorities continue to monitor festival activities, particularly in crowded areas, with traffic management, crowd control and public safety remaining key priorities during the celebrations.

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