Archive · 9 Oct 2026
Dombivli Cancels Grand Dandiya, Redirects Funds to Drought-Hit Farmers
A big dandiya festival planned for Dombivli has been cancelled this year.
The organisers say parts of Maharashtra are facing drought-like conditions and farmers are struggling.
Instead of spending the money on the celebration, they plan to use it to help farmers and their families.
The help may cover household needs and children's expenses.
The usual nine-day religious observances for Navratri will still take place.
Devotees can attend prayers and rituals, including a Durga Chandi Yagna and havan.
The organisers say they want to keep the religious part of the festival while reducing its celebrations.
The Dr Shrikant Shinde Foundation and Nav Durga Mitra Mandal cancelled this year's grand Rasrang Dandiya Utsav in Dombivli.
Organisers said funds set aside for the festival will support drought-affected farmers and their families in Maharashtra.
The proposed assistance is intended to help with essential household expenses and children's needs.
Nine days of Navratri worship, along with a Durga Chandi Yagna, havan and other rituals, will continue.
Shiv Sena MLA Rajesh More announced the decision at a press conference attended by local party leaders and functionaries.
- Who
- The Dr Shrikant Shinde Foundation and Nav Durga Mitra Mandal made the decision; Shiv Sena MLA Rajesh More announced it.
- What
- The annual grand Rasrang Dandiya Utsav is cancelled, and its earmarked funds will be redirected to drought-affected farmers and their families.
- When
- This year's Navratri; the article does not specify dates.
- Where
- Dombivli, Maharashtra.
- Why
- Organisers cited drought-like conditions and hardship faced by farmers across parts of Maharashtra.
- Cancelled event
- Grand Rasrang Dandiya Utsav
- Location
- Dombivli, Maharashtra
- Organisers
- Dr Shrikant Shinde Foundation and Nav Durga Mitra Mandal
- Planned use of funds
- Support for drought-affected farmers and their families
- Religious programme
- Nine days of worship, a Durga Chandi Yagna, havan and other rituals
- Announcement
- Made by Shiv Sena MLA Rajesh More at a press conference