In the heart of Pune, where the streets come alive with the beats of Dhol during the Ganesh Festival, there exists a unique tale of tradition, passion, and dedication. Nikita is part of this remarkable tradition, and a member of the Aawartan Dhol Tasha Dhwaj Pathak, who juggles her full-time job at Rayden with her unwavering commitment to her passion.
Hailing from a small town with humble Ganesh Festival celebrations, Nikita’s fascination with the grandeur of Pune’s festivities became her driving force. It was her dream to be part of a Dhol Pathak in Pune, but it was not until she joined Rayden that she could do it. “I have never had an employer give me the opportunity to balance my work with my passion. But here, my managers not only valued my professional growth but also motivated me to do this for myself. All thanks to the flexible hours policy, I can work an early shift, finish work by 4 pm and dedicate my evenings to Dhol practice every day.” Two months before the festival, she diligently practices with the group every day, regardless of the circumstances. From travelling 30 kilometers to practicing 4 hours while balancing work – it’s truly a testament to her zeal.
But it’s not just about playing dhol and having fun, for her. In addition to the religious aspect, there’s a profound sense of spiritual and social service that permeates her participation. As a member of the NCC, she cherishes values like discipline, unity, social service, and respect – principles she believes are deeply ingrained in the Dhol Pathak ethos. “Every contribution, whether it’s playing dhol or distributing water bottles and medical kits, is a significant part of the celebration.”
For the past two years, Nikita has been part of the main processions in Pune, happening in and around the bustling Peth areas. Playing for hours on end can be challenging, but the energy of the crowd fuels her, breathing new life into the Pathak and motivating them to play with unwavering enthusiasm. She is not just a member of a Dhol Pathak; she is the heartbeat of a tradition that resonates through the streets of Pune every year during the Ganesh Festival.
