Ganeshotsav celebrations began across Maharashtra from Saturday, September 7. In Pune, the 10-day festivities kicked off at the Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Mandal, featuring bright-eyed idols, showering flower petals, an infectious festive spirit, and a power-packed performance by a pioneering troupe.

Maharashtra's first transgender dhol-tasha troupe, Shikhandi, performed for the first time at these Ganeshotsav celebrations in Pune on Saturday. The 30-member group had made its debut at a state-level event in Nanded, back in August.

Furthermore, the group is scheduled to perform at five famous Ganpati pandals in Pune, marking a welcome fusion of tradition and gender inclusivity.

'Shikhandi' was founded by Manasvi Goilkar, after facing rejection from several dhol tasha troupes. In a domain traditionally dominated by cisgendered groups, Shikhandi aims to make a space for themselves, showcasing their love for traditions and the art form.

The troupe's name is derived from a character in the epic Mahabharata, named Shikhandi. Born as the daughter of Drupada, Shikhandi had become a biological male later in life.