Mrunal Thakur, playing Rabia in ‘Son of Sardaar 2’, learned to play the dhol over three months. She described the experience as “tiring, thrilling, and so special.” The film, directed by Vijay Kumar Arora, releases on July 25, 2025. Mrunal also has upcoming projects ‘Dacoit’ and ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’.
Mrunal Thakur Opens Up About Her Passionate Journey Learning the Dhol: “It’s Not Just an Instrument, It’s Pure Energy”
Bollywood actress Mrunal Thakur, who has charmed audiences with her performances in both films and web series, is now winning hearts with her latest cultural pursuit — learning to play the dhol, a traditional Indian percussion instrument known for its thunderous beats and deep-rooted significance in celebrations across India.
In an age where most celebrities focus on trending Western instruments or digital music, Mrunal’s decision to learn the dhol stands out as a refreshing celebration of Indian culture. In a recent interaction with fans and the media, Mrunal opened up about what inspired her to pick up the dhol and how the experience has been both empowering and emotionally fulfilling.
“I’ve always been drawn to the sound of the dhol,” Mrunal shared. “Whether it’s Ganesh Chaturthi, a wedding, or a movie scene — the dhol just lifts the spirit instantly. It’s more than music; it’s the heartbeat of celebration.”
A Personal Challenge Turned Passion
Mrunal revealed that she decided to take dhol lessons earlier this year, during a short break between projects. While most of her peers were off on vacations, she chose to immerse herself in something deeply cultural and physically demanding.
“The first lesson was a wake-up call,” she laughed. “It’s not just about banging the drums. The technique, the coordination, and the sheer strength it requires — I wasn’t ready for that! But I fell in love with the process.”
She mentioned how the physicality of the dhol helped her build stamina and improved her posture and hand coordination, something that also benefited her as an actor.
“It’s a full-body experience. You’re moving, sweating, feeling the rhythm in your bones. Honestly, it’s therapeutic.”
Behind the Scenes: Practice, Soreness & Rhythm
The actress didn’t shy away from speaking about the initial challenges. Like many who try their hand at percussion, Mrunal experienced muscle soreness and struggled to find her rhythm in the beginning.
“I remember coming home with sore shoulders and red hands,” she recalled. “But every day, I got a little better. My teacher was so patient, and once I caught on, I couldn’t stop.”
Videos recently surfaced of Mrunal practicing with a live dhol group, dressed in ethnic wear, completely immersed in the beat. The energy, confidence, and sheer joy on her face were enough to go viral.
Fans React With Love and Pride
Fans across social media platforms have lauded Mrunal’s effort to embrace and promote traditional Indian music.
“Mrunal learning the dhol is so inspiring! She’s representing Indian culture in such a powerful way,” one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Another fan commented,
“We need more stars like her who don’t just pose with tradition but live it.”
Many have urged her to include dhol in her upcoming movie promotions or even stage performances. One video edit, showing her playing dhol alongside clips from Ganpati processions, has already racked up thousands of views on Instagram and YouTube Shorts.
What’s Next for Mrunal?
When asked whether she would showcase her new skill in an upcoming film or event, Mrunal smiled and teased her fans.
“Let’s just say, you might see something exciting soon. I’ve definitely caught the dhol fever. Who knows — maybe a full performance someday?”
While she didn’t confirm any professional project involving dhol, she did mention she plans to continue her lessons and hopes to collaborate with traditional folk artists in the future.
“India’s musical heritage is so rich. If I can even add a tiny spark to keep it alive, I’ll consider that a win.”
Conclusion
In a world where modern trends often overshadow heritage, Mrunal Thakur’s journey of learning the dhol is a heartwarming reminder of the joy found in tradition. Her dedication to mastering the beats and rhythm of this powerful instrument is not just a personal victory but a cultural celebration that resonates with fans across generations.
As Mrunal continues to explore new avenues of creativity, one thing is clear: whether on-screen or off, she’s marching to the beat of her own (dhol) drum.
