The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena will not hold its annual Diwali celebration at Shivaji Park due to severe rural distress.
The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) will not host its annual Dipotsav celebration at Shivaji Park in Mumbai this year, according to reports from Urban Acres and Hindustan Times. MNS chief Raj Thackeray announced the decision in a video message on Wednesday, citing the severe drought affecting large parts of Maharashtra.
Thackeray stated that extravagant festivities would not be appropriate while rural areas face drought, farmers deal with financial pressure, and thousands of people migrate to cities. He urged citizens across the state to practice restraint during their Diwali celebrations.
The Maharashtra government has declared 85 per cent of the state as drought-hit following deficient rainfall this year. The state has also announced interim assistance of Rs 5,000 for farmers before Diwali.
The Dipotsav is a major public event that typically features light decorations at Shivaji Park and a synchronised firecracker display. Previous years have seen inaugurations by figures such as Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar, as well as attendance by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Eknath Shinde.
Thackeray said the event would be organised again next year if the situation improves.
