Overview
- Raj Thackeray announced Wednesday that his party will not hold its annual Dipotsav at Shivaji Park this year, calling off the large public Diwali event.
- He said the decision responds to a severe rainfall shortfall that the state has treated as a drought affecting about 85% of talukas.
- The Maharashtra government has announced interim aid of roughly ₹5,000 for eligible farmers ahead of Diwali as it assesses crop losses and migration from rural areas to cities.
- Thackeray urged restrained celebrations and limited lighting and fireworks, clarified he was not calling for a 'black Diwali,' and criticized leaders who continued festival events despite the drought.
- Dipotsav normally draws thousands to Shivaji Park and has been inaugurated by prominent figures, so the cancellation carries social and political weight and may be resumed next year if conditions improve.