For centuries, drumming in traditional Dhol Tasha Pathak groups has been seen as a male-dominated art form, especially during vibrant festival celebrations in Maharashtra. However, a new wave of change is sweeping through these groups, led by women who are breaking stereotypes, challenging societal norms, and creating a space for themselves in this musical tradition.
Kalpita Shinde, who has been playing the dhol for the past nine years, puts it simply, ’Try to play the dhol once—money and heaven, both would fail to come close to the feeling.’ For her and many other women, this is more than just drumming; it’s about empowerment and passion.
Despite facing doubts and challenges from society, these women have pushed forward. Mansi Warikar, a 22-year-old student, recalls the comments she often hears, ’People say I’m too skinny, that the dhol weighs as much as I do.’ But Mansi has proven them wrong, showing that determination and passion far outweigh any physical limitations. ’After they see me play, their point of view changes.’
Similarly, Gayatri Baraskar, who has been drumming with the Kaleshwarnath Pathak in Mumbai for six years, was initially surprised to see other women picking up the heavy dhols. ’When I went to check out the Dhol Pathaks, I saw girls who weighed less than me playing these huge dhols. I was amazed. That’s when I decided to try it—I knew it was part of our culture and I wanted to help take it forward.’
It hasn’t been easy. Many women in the Pathaks face criticism and doubt from family and society. Kalpita remembers hearing things like, ’Your daughter will have a backache. Boys do this; it’s not for girls.’ But for women like Kalpita, these taunts only fuel their determination to prove everyone wrong.
Their strength goes beyond physical endurance. These women manage to juggle demanding jobs, household responsibilities, and, in some cases, motherhood, all while making time to play the dhol with enthusiasm. ’Girls are so strong,’ Kalpita says. ’They balance personal and professional life, put everything aside, and play with happiness.’
For many, the experience is transformative. Mansi’s father, once skeptical, now fully supports her after seeing her perform. ’At first, he told me to focus on my studies and career. But when he saw me play the dhol, his reaction was priceless.’
For these women, the dhol is more than just an instrument—it’s a statement. They are not just playing; they’re creating memories, forming bonds, and breaking barriers. ’We enjoy so much while playing,’ Gayatri shares. ’We form a jugalbandi amidst ourselves. You should come and watch us; you’ll understand how it works.’
The path ahead is clear for these women. As Mansi reflects, Memories stay with us the entire year. I just want to keep doing it. It’s been four years, but this is just the beginning. I’m going to continue as long as I can.’
These women drummers are more than participants in the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations—they’re leading a revolution, redefining tradition, and showing the world that nothing, not even heavy drums, can weigh down their passion and strength.