How the Drums of Liberation from One Piece reflect the dhak traditions of Durga Puja

In the unlikeliest of cultural juxtapositions, the Drums of Liberation from One Piece and the traditional dhak rhythms of Durga Puja join hands, dancing to a tune of unexpected parallels. Hailing from worlds as diverse as the Grand Line and the Ganges, the two surprisingly harmonise on themes of revelry, emancipation, and vanquishing big bads.

It goes without saying that this piece contains HEAVY SPOILERS for One Piece, especially pertaining to its most recent Wano Arc.

The Drums of Liberation

The popular manga and anime series created by Eiichiro Oda, is known for its complex characters and intricate world-building. 

ALSO READ: I just started One Piece and can see why it claims to be the greatest of all time

Arguably the most awaited moment in the history of the long-running series was the introduction of the "Drums of Liberation" in Episode 1071, that only just premiered in August. 

• The event was a culmination of a series of plot developments that include Luffy, the series' protagonist, undergoing a transformative experience.

In the episode, Luffy has been declared dead at the hands of a formidable foe - Kaido. However, contrary to this declaration, Luffy is shown to be smiling at the end of the episode, marking a significant turning point in the narrative and is accompanied by a drumbeat, which catches the attention of both the characters in the story and the audience.

• Zunesha, a giant elephant-like character, even refers to this sound as the "Drums of Liberation" and expresses joy in hearing them once again.

These "Drums of Liberation” are, in fact, the sound of Luffy's heart, which starts beating once more as his transformation begins. This transformation is associated with the Awakening of his Devil Fruit, a supernatural power that grants him unique abilities. 

• The distinct sound produced by the Drums of Liberation is unlike anything else, and Zunesha is able to recognize and identify them, confirming Luffy's identity.

Furthermore, it draws parallels to the Joy Boy prophecy, which is linked to the return of a messianic figure in the world of One Piece. 

Joy Boy is believed to return around 800 years after the Void Century, and when Luffy, through the awakening of his Devil Fruit, causes his heartbeat to resemble the Drums of Liberation, it is taken as a sign that he has succeeded the mantle as the new Joy Boy.

• In this state, Luffy transcends the confines of the One Piece world, challenging all norms and limitations, representing the embodiment of freedom itself through “Gear 5”.

Joy Boy is associated with dancing, singing, and celebrating, resonating with the Caribbean folklore of a figure who cures the ills of humanity through music and dance.

• The connection between Joy Boy's arrival and the ecstatic atmosphere is more than evident, aligning with the themes of liberation and celebration.

The Dhak

On the other hand, the prominent annual Hindu festival celebrated in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in West Bengal, reveres the goddess Durga and commemorates her victory over the powerful demon, Mahishasura. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

• One of the distinctive elements of Durga Puja is the use of the dhak, a traditional membranophone instrument from India and Bangladesh. 

The dhak is large, with varying shapes and methods of stretching the hide over the drum. It is typically suspended from the neck, tied to the waist, or placed on the lap or the ground, played with wooden sticks.

• The dhak plays a central role in Durga Puja, and its rhythms are integral to the festive atmosphere.

During the celebration, people of all ages dance to the sound of the dhak at various pavilions. The beats of the dhak are so vital to the festival that it is often said that Durga Puja does not assume its festive aura without the maddening beats of the dhak.

• Moreover, Durga Puja features the dhunuchi nritya, a frenzied dance with the censer, accompanied by the rhythmic playing of the dhak. 

The dhak's rhythms are not merely for entertainment but also serve to convey messages during the festivities. It is a symbol of welcoming Durga Maa and conveys the joy and happiness of the festival.

• The dhak creates an atmosphere that enhances the spiritual experience of Durga Puja, and its sounds beckon people to break barriers and celebrate the joy of victory.

Parallels

The Drums of Liberation and the dhak traditions of Pujo share striking similarities, particularly in their ability to evoke feelings of joy, celebration, and the triumph of good over evil.

The Sound of Celebration

Both the Drums of Liberation and the dhak are associated with celebratory moments. In One Piece, the unique sound of the Drums of Liberation accompanies Luffy's transformation and victory, creating a sense of jubilation. 

Similarly, in Durga Puja, the rhythmic beats of the dhak infuse a trance-like rhythm into the festivities, creating a joyous atmosphere.

Connection to prophecy

In One Piece, the Drums of Liberation are connected to the Joy Boy prophecy, signifying a significant return. In Durga Puja, the dhak's rhythms symbolize the victory of goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, representing the fulfillment of a prophetic narrative.

Enhancing spiritual experience

Both the Drums of Liberation and the dhak's sounds enhance the spiritual experience of their respective celebrations. They create unique atmospheres that heighten the significance of the events.

The Drums of Liberation and the dhak are two distinct cultural elements that share remarkable resemblances in their ability to evoke feelings of elation. Be it over the battlefield of Wano or within the sanctity of a pandal, the vibrant drone of both percussive experiences never fails to bring a smile to our faces.