Silent DJ trend takes off at Durga Puja pandals across India

Videos circulating on social media show crowds at Durga Puja immersion ceremonies wearing earbuds and headphones while dancing and celebrating, creating an unusual sight at these traditional religious processions. The trend, which appears to be gaining traction among younger participants, involves attendees tuning into their own choice of music via personal devices rather than following the collective soundscape of the procession.

The practice has raised questions about the cultural implications of the trend, as immersion processions have traditionally been communal celebrations featuring live music, drums, and orchestrated performances that unite participants in shared musical experience. By adopting individual audio streams through headphones, celebrants create a distinctly modern take on age-old rituals.

While some view the trend as a harmless expression of individual preference within contemporary festival celebrations, others have expressed concern about the shift away from collective participation. The phenomenon reflects broader discussions about how Gen-Z is reshaping traditional festivities with technology and personalisation.

The trend remains primarily visible in social media documentation, though reports suggest it is becoming more prevalent at major immersion events in metropolitan areas. Festival organisers and community leaders have largely refrained from formally responding to the practice, allowing the trend to evolve organically among younger celebrants.