Hyderabad’s brass bands keep Ganesh procession tradition alive

As towering idols of Lord Ganesha take to the streets for the annual processions, the soundscape of Hyderabad is increasingly dominated by powerful DJ systems. 

Yet, amid the booming speakers and electronic beats, the brass band continues to march to its own rhythm, its uniformed musicians lending a distinct old-world charm to the festivities.

Dressed in matching uniforms and moving in formation, musicians with trumpets, saxophones,



clarinets, drums and other instruments remain a familiar sight during Ganesh processions. For many organisers, the live performance of a brass band carries a sense of tradition and dignity that recorded music cannot quite replicate.

One of the city’s oldest names in the business is Pentiah Band, which traces its origins to musician Kadiah, who played the dappu and tash. It was his grandson Pentiah who turned the family’s musical tradition into a commercial enterprise.