Dhol troupe performs to raise funds for underprivileged kids

Over 42,000 people gathered on the streets of the city to participate in the Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon for various reasons including fund-raising, charity, fitness, motivating peers etc.

However, a traditional dhol-tasha troupe — Jagdamb — performed for thirty minutes with a motive to not only entertain people but to raise funds as well. About 25 of them, including 20 girls were dressed in traditional attire to entertain the marathon runners. While the women adorned colourful nauvari sarees and traditional jewellery, the men wore white kurtas.

In its third year, the troupe has over 550 participants from across Mumbai. The troupe charges a nominal performance fee which is donated towards charity. They also aim to spread awareness about the Maratha culture and community as well as inspire the younger generation.

Nilesh Sawant, a Police Sub Inspector has been a part of the troupe ever since its inception, he says, "We collect money and use it for the betterment of rural villages of Maharashtra. Rather than merely collecting money, we are entertaining people as well as raising funds for the needy." In the past, the troupe has also organised educational trips for underprivileged children.