Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray announced the cancellation of the annual Dipotsav celebration at Shivaji Park. This decision is in response to the severe drought affecting rural Maharashtra and farmers. Thackeray urged residents to celebrate Diwali mindfully instead of extravagantly. The Maharashtra government has declared 85% of the state as drought-hit and offered aid to farmers. Thackeray hopes to organize the event next year if conditions improve.
