Opinion: Kodagu Police Fail to Enforce DJ Ban at Madikeri Dasara ?

Despite the clear warning from SP Ramarajan, DJ music blared throughout parts of the festival. Image used for representation purpose only.

The Madikeri Dasara festival, a celebration steeped in over a century of tradition, was meant to undergo a crucial transformation this year, with the Kodagu police promising to clamp down on loud DJ music and promote local cultural performances. In a press briefing before the festival, Superintendent of Police (SP) Ramarajan K emphasised the harmful impact of excessive noise, particularly on vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those in poor health. He highlighted the importance of showcasing Kodagu's own heritage through traditional 'Valaga' music instead of deafening DJ sound systems.

However, residents of Madikeri are now raising serious concerns about the failure of the police to follow through on this promise. Despite the clear warning from SP Ramarajan, DJ music blared throughout parts of the festival, and video footage confirms that large speakers were used while festival-goers danced to the thumping beats. Disappointingly, no significant action appears to have been taken against violators, with the police allegedly standing by as passive spectators.

This failure points to a deeper issue of enforcement. For all the good intentions in preserving Kodagu's cultural identity and protecting the wellbeing of citizens, promises by Ramarajan are meaningless if not backed by decisive action. It raises questions about the authority and commitment of the police in such matters and whether the lure of spectacle is overpowering the commitment to community welfare.

Video showcasing the Madikeri Dasara celebration with a DJ performance. Courtesy: Quicknews

Madikeri Dasara is a cultural treasure, but it must evolve with a balance between tradition and modernity. If the Kodagu police are to regain public trust, they must ensure their words carry weight—and that future festivals reflect the rich heritage of the region, not the noise of empty promises.

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