Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Wednesday, November 4, announced the cancellation of the annual Deepotsav celebration at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park, in view of the severe drought affecting 304 out of 358 talukas in Maharashtra, which has caused widespread damage to an estimated 141.53 lakh hectares of rain-fed, irrigated and horticultural crops, IANS reported.

Source: NewKerala (IANS)

Every year, the MNS celebrates Deepotsav at Shivaji Park with grand illuminations and fireworks, drawing crowds from Mumbai, Thane and various corners of Maharashtra. Announcing the decision in a video message, Thackeray said: "There is usually immense enthusiasm... However, we have decided not to celebrate Deepotsav this year. The sole reason is the terrible drought that has struck, exists, and looms over Maharashtra. In light of this severe drought, my heart simply could not accept celebrating a festival of this kind."

Thackeray noted that the Chief Minister had himself stated this drought will be even more severe than the one in 1972, and criticised ruling-party leaders for, as he put it, continuing with Garba celebrations regardless. He warned that countless rural households would be forced to leave their villages and head towards the cities, and asked how rural families and their children would feel watching grand celebrations while they face acute water scarcity.

Clarifying that he was not advocating a "black Diwali," Thackeray urged citizens to exercise restraint on heavy lighting and bursting crackers, while keeping to traditional observances such as hanging lanterns and sharing sweets. "We do not want to celebrate a black Diwali, but we must exercise some restraint on that excitement," he said.

Source: Nation Press

He concluded by extending Diwali greetings on behalf of himself, his family and the MNS, and said the Deepotsav would be celebrated again next year with great zeal if conditions improve. The state government has declared about 85 per cent of Maharashtra drought-hit after deficient rainfall this year and has announced interim aid of Rs 5,000 per eligible farmer ahead of Diwali while crop losses are assessed, PTI reported.