Damaru, Mahakal zanj big draws in immersion processions along with dhol-tasha

Pune: Immersion processions in Pune are known for their fervent and thunderous dhol-tasha troupes. Adding to their attraction are other traditional instruments like the ‘Mahakal zanj' and ‘damaru'.
According to sellers and shops, the demand for these two instruments has gone up as troupes participating in the immersion processions play them to stand out.
As per the association of dhol-tasha players, Pune and the surrounding areas have around 150 such groups. The number of participants ranges from 100 to 120 per group and they play five to six popular patterns for years.
"Many groups and people who watch them perform know these patterns. So, troupes are exploring new options to keep the crowd mesmerised. The increased use of damaru and other percussion instruments like cymbals are gaining visibility," Parag Thakur, an office bearer of the association, said.
According to instrument makers, the damaru is sourced from Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and other parts of the country. A 10-inch damaru with an 8-inch diameter is in high demand. At least 10 are included in a group of 50 dhol to make an impact. 'Mahakal zanj' (cymbals) made of steel is different from the bronze alloy one.
Tejas Jadhav of Nandkumar Gajanan Jadhav Musicals said that these instruments are being made in Pune too. "The makers and shopkeepers start making and sourcing these instruments six months prior to Ganeshotsav and tune them for troupes," he said.
Ashuthosh Deshpande of ShivMudra Dhol Pathak, who played the Mahakal theme for Tulshibaug Ganapati Mandal last year, said they are experimenting with themes and instruments. "New rhythms are developed every year. One of them is the Mahakal pattern that has become popular," he said