India, Sept. 6 -- Amid the ongoing debate over the use of DJs and high-decibel loudspeakers during festivals, 31 prominent Ganesh and Dahi Handi mandals came together for a traditional Dahi Handi celebration at the historic Lal Mahal Chowk on Saturday.

The joint celebration, led by Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganapati Mandal Utsav chief Punit Balan, brought together several prominent public Ganesh mandals from central Pune. Instead of DJs and high-powered sound systems, the event featured traditional instruments such as dhol-tasha and halgi, along with Mardani sports and cultural performances.

"Dahi Handi and Ganeshotsav are deeply rooted in Maharashtra's culture and traditions and can be celebrated with equal enthusiasm through traditio...