Dhak: Beats of therapy and connection - GetBengal story
“Dhak” is not just an instrument but the heartbeat of the celebration of Bengal’s Durga Puja. From the beginning to the moment of immersion, this rhythmic sound keeps the whole state alive, regardless of every person. But have you ever thought why the sound of the Dhak is so powerful and carries a different aura and vibration? Modern science gives an explanation that may provide a different perspective on religious practices.
At the beginning of Durga Puja, when we listen to the subtle Dhak sound, we feel that Durga Puja has arrived and it's the days of celebration and blessings. The astonishing part is that the dhakis (the drummers) play the dhak for such a long time, continuing until the completion of the rituals.
When we listen to the sound of the Dhak, it gets synced with our brain waves. In scientific terms, this process is called “entrainment”. The frequency of Dhak’s sound creates a trance-like feeling; therefore, it soaks the listeners in a hypnotic effect. Our body and mind move according to the Dhak beats, and we flow with the rhythm.
Apart from that, research has proven that group drumming has a positive impact on our health, reducing stress, lowering anxiety, and even boosting overall well-being. In addition, after a drumming session, Cortisol, the stress hormone, drops remarkably. It means the dhak is not just a cultural instrument but also a natural therapy that brings people to a happier mental state after long rhythmic listening during Durga Puja.
Furthermore, the Dhak rhythm also connects people and community. The instrument is not for an individual’s experience, it also connects people. According to scientific explanation, when a group of people gets synchronized in one specific act, such as clapping, singing, or drumming, they feel connected and feel closer to each other. On the occasion of Durga Puja, when the dhak beats, the crowd at the mandap listens together and finds themselves sharing the same rhythm; they feel a connected state.
A mandap becomes a space where all the community’s people can enter and soak with the positive vibrations and celebrations together. Along with this, the dhak beats make the space come alive and sync the crowd together, creating a powerful sense of joy, unity, and shared celebration.
Science delves deeper into our traditional roots. These explanations show how the dhak goes beyond its identity as a festive instrument; it is a therapy, a bridge of connection, and a link between culture and biology.
