Netas are drum-struck

On the eve of counting day, Nashik Dhol emerged as politicians' favourite instrument of celebration

The results of the Assembly polls will only come in later today, but as far as celebrations for victors go, there is a clear winner already. It is the Nashik Dhol. From Congress-NCP to BJP-Shiv Sena, every party has hired Nashik Dhol bands for victory marches.

Abu Asim Azmi of the Samajwadi Party claimed he had not planned any victory celebrations, but admitted, "My supporters are planning to celebrate with Nashik Dhol and crackers."

For Poonam Mahajan, too, the Nashik Dhols are all set. According to Rajesh Pandey from the Mahajan camp, they too have hired a band of Nashik dhols. "After the victory, we will decide on what else should be done," he said.

Congress candidate from Vile Parle Krishna Hegde claimed he had not decided anything yet. Sources claimed his supporters wanted to have a huge procession with dhols, but Hegde wanted to keep it simple, probably in tune with his party's austerity drive.

Parties are also stocking up on crackers. Supporters of Baba Siddique have bought firecrackers worth Rs 10,000, said a Congress worker, on condition of anonymity. "We have also bought ad space on hoardings in anticipation," he added.

NCP workers will reach the party headquarters in Nariman Point at 11 am with loads of crackers. "There haven't been any bulk bookings from parties, but supporters have come individually to buy crackers," said Minesh Mehta, secretary, Mumbai and Thane Firework Dealers Welfare Association.

Zara hatke
Sardar Tara Singh, the flamboyant BJP candidate from Mulund, has ordered for a Pune dhol band and over a dozen Bhangra dancers.
"The bhangra dancers and Pune dhol will be the major attraction. We are also getting a man on stilts who will carry our flag after the victory," said Viral Shah, a BJP supporter from the area.
Incidentally, the Pune band that they have hired has 50 drummers.