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ABOUT US

Shivmalhar Dhol Tasha Pathak

Shivmalhar Dhol Tasha Pathak brings the electrifying beats of Maharashtra’s traditional percussion to life, creating unforgettable performances for every celebration. Specializing in festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, Gudi Padwa, Janmashtami, Shivjayanti, and Rajyabhishek, the troupe combines energy, precision, and cultural authenticity. Led by passionate artists, Shivmalhar inspires audiences, preserves heritage, and spreads the joy of Dhol Tasha, making every event a vibrant, rhythmic experience. every rupee earned goes back into supporting the art.

 Experience the magic of Maharashtra with Shivmalhar Dhol Tasha Pathak. Our troupe delivers high-energy, authentic performances for festivals and celebrations, including Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, Gudi Padwa, Janmashtami, Shivjayanti, and Rajyabhishek. Each performance honors tradition while captivating audiences with rhythm, precision, and passion. Shivmalhar is dedicated to preserving Dhol Tasha’s legacy, inspiring cultural pride, and connecting communities through music, heritage, and the joy of live celebration.

Our Mission
To promote, preserve, and evolve the traditional art of Dhol Tasha while creating a culturally inclusive space where rhythm builds unity, strength, and community spirit.
Our Vision
Shivmalhar aims to make Dhol Tasha a celebrated cultural identity in Bengaluru and beyond, inspiring future generations to preserve this vibrant heritage.
Our story
Shivmalhar, founded in January 2025 by Girish Gowardhan and Mandar Dhamale, brings vibrant Dhol Tasha performances, celebrating Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage

The History Behind the Rhythm

Dhol Tasha traces its origins to the 16th–17th century during the Maratha Empire, where its powerful beats served as war cries and battlefield signals.
By the 19th century, this art form evolved into a vibrant part of Ganesh Utsav, transforming from a symbol of war to one of celebration, devotion, and community unity.

 

Shivmalhar in Bengaluru

Our members   fondly known as “Shimmers” are working professionals from across India who now call Bengaluru home. From 2 years to over 20+ years in the city, we are united by one passion: keeping the spirit of Dhol Tasha alive.

Bangalore’s Warm Welcome

Bringing a traditional Maharashtrian art form to a cosmopolitan city was a challenge but Bengaluru embraced us with immense love.

Our Performances & Gigs

Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 was a milestone  over 40 performance requests and 11 venues in just 5 days.

We have also performed in Hyderabad, Davanagere, and Raichur.

Notable Performances:

  • Opening Act at a sporting event, Nexus Vega City Mall (July 2025)
  • Corporate Performances for Amazon & IBM
  • Upcoming public workshops, collaborations & cultural showcases

 

Our Members

We proudly celebrated our first Ganesh Utsav (2025) with 42 members, followed by 46 new joiners soon after.
Our goal: a 150-warrior troupe by next season.

Our pathak represents inclusivity with members aged 7 to 60 years, and a majority of women performers  showcasing strength, unity, and cultural pride.

At Shivmalhar, everyone is welcome, regardless of region, language, or background.

 

Our Journey

When Did It Start?

Shivmalhar was co-founded by Girish Gowardhan and Mandar Dhamale in January 2025, debuting energetically on Shivjayanti (February 2025).

How Did It Start?
The name Shivmalhar is inspired by the two Pune pathaks that shaped their journey

  • “Shiv” from Shivdigvijay Dhol Tasha Pathak
  • Malhar” from Malhar Dhol Tasha Pathak one passion.
    Both founders moved to Bengaluru for work but deeply missed the cultural experience of Dhol Tasha.
    Their paths crossed at a 2022 workshop at Maharashtra Mandal Bengaluru  a meeting that sparked the vision of Shivmalhar.
    Today, we stand as a symbol of rhythm, culture, unity, and ethical artistry, creating a new legacy for the next generation.

 

Our Amazing Teams

Zayden Williams
CEO, Mindstation
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Mark Antony
CEO, Mindstation
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Jonathon Miler
CEO, Mindstation
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Jimmy Heathway
CEO, Mindstation
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Mellissa Brayan
CEO, Mindstation
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Tyson Gardner
CEO, Mindstation
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