India, Aug. 28 -- The reverberating beats of the dhol and tasha are an integral part of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. With the festival now just over two weeks away, Dhol Tasha pathaks across Maharashtra are stepping up preparations for the processions. But beyond the spectacle of the performance, the art form has a long history. Here's a look at what goes into becoming part of a Dhol Tasha pathak. Dhol Tasha has moved beyond its school-based origins today. While Ganesh Chaturthi remains their biggest season, several groups conduct classes and participate in performances through the year. Milind Vichare, Pathak Pramukh of the Mumbai-based Vandan Dhol Tasha Dhwaj Pathak, says, "While we have classes the entire year, practice begins 3-4 months before Ganesh Chaturthi. During the week, it happens on alternate days for 3-4 hours, with specific focus on weekends." The participants come from a range of professions and age groups. "College students, doctors, policemen, government servants, all kinds of people join us," he says. Neelesh Bharankar, founder of the Gajashree Dhol Tasha Pathak based in Mumbai's Tilak Nagar, sees a similar mix among his members. "Most of them are working professionals. I'm also the vice president of an IT company. There are a few doctors, engineers, and college-going guys too," he says. Women, too, are well represented. Bharankar shares that women make up around 50% of its members. "If you have a knack of taal, it is not that difficult to pick up. Dhol gives beats, and the tasha gives lead. Tasha is way more difficult than dhol. For dhol, a month of practice is enough but to perfect the tasha, one can take up to 3-4 years," says Saurabh Gokhale, actor, Founder Member and Chairman, Kalaawant Trust. At Gajashree, beginners do not immediately get an instrument as the initial focus is on getting the technique right. Bharankar says, "First, hand movements are taught and once that comes naturally, an instrument is given," . The scale and volume of the instruments, can make finding a suitable practice space in Mumbai a challenge. Bharankar says the group practises around the Eastern Express and Western Express highways. "I practise under the Ghatkopar bridge," he says....