Hyderabad is currently enjoying the vibrant Durga Puja celebrations, and at the center of these celebrations are the Dhakis, traditional drummers from Bengal. Their beats bring a special energy to the festivities, making the celebrations feel complete.
The dhak, a traditional drum, is an essential part of Durga Puja. The Dhakis travel to Hyderabad from Bengal to perform during the festival. Each ritual of the Puja, from the arrival of the goddess Durga’s idols to the final immersion, is accompanied by distinctive rhythms played by the Dhakis. Their music is central to creating the right atmosphere throughout the event.
The dhak is played during key moments of the festival, such as when the idol is brought into the pandal and when the goddess departs on the last day, Dashami (also known as Dasara). The beats of the drum uplift the mood during the emotional sindur khela (vermilion ritual) and the immersion of the idols, explained members of the Bangio Radha Krishna Mandir in Jeedimetla.
Ramkrishna Moni Das, a Dhaki from West Bengal who has been performing in Hyderabad for 14 years, shared his excitement about being part of the celebrations. He said, “My team and I look forward to this occasion every year. It allows us to visit Hyderabad, showcase our talent, and compare our performances with other states. The respect we get here is amazing.”
Another drummer, Duldal Das, who is from Murshidabad, West Bengal, has also been playing in Hyderabad for the past 14 years. He performs at Bangiya Sanskritik Sangha in Secunderabad. He expressed his joy, saying, “My team of 10 drummers and I love coming here every year. The atmosphere in Hyderabad feels just like home. I have also played in other cities like Nagaland, Mumbai, and Jaipur, but Hyderabad holds a special place in my heart.”
Many people in Hyderabad eagerly await the Dhakis’ performances during Durga Puja. Rohan Das, an IT employee, said, “Aside from the bhog and cultural programs, Durga Puja feels incomplete without the Dhakis. Every year, we visit different puja pandals just to hear their mesmerizing beats. It’s truly an unforgettable experience.”
The Dhakis continue to be an integral part of Durga Puja, adding to the cultural richness and spirit of the celebrations in Hyderabad.
