MNS cancels Diwali festival amid Maharashtra drought crisis

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has decided to cancel its flagship Dipotsav festival in Mumbai this year as a mark of solidarity with drought-affected residents across the state. The party cited the ongoing water crisis as the primary reason for abandoning the annual Diwali celebration event.

The decision comes as the Maharashtra government has officially declared approximately 85 per cent of the state as drought-hit following inadequate rainfall during the current monsoon season. The severe deficiency in precipitation has impacted agricultural output and water availability across vast regions of the state.

Beyond cancelling its own event, the MNS has urged residents and other organizations to demonstrate restraint during Diwali festivities. The party's appeal emphasizes the need for conscious consumption and reduced celebrations given the resource constraints faced by communities battling drought conditions.

The cancellation reflects growing acknowledgment among political parties and civil society organizations of the gravity of Maharashtra's drought situation. Similar appeals for measured celebrations during festival seasons have been made by various groups in water-scarce regions across India in previous years, balancing cultural traditions with environmental and humanitarian concerns.