Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Amit Thackeray on Saturday demanded that the state government declare the 10-day Ganesh festival, from August 27 to September 6, a holiday, citing reports of schools and colleges scheduling exams during this period. Meeting Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar, Thackeray, who heads MNS’s student wing, criticized the exam schedules as contradictory to the government’s recognition of Ganeshotsav as a state festival.

“Ganesh festival is not just religious but a vital social and cultural event,” Thackeray stated, arguing that exams would deprive students of participating in the celebrations, which draw millions across Maharashtra for vibrant processions and community events. He warned that the MNS student wing would ensure no exams occur during this period, signaling potential protests if demands are unmet.

The call has resonated on social media, with posts urging authorities to respect the festival’s significance. The government has yet to respond officially, but the issue highlights tensions between academic schedules and cultural traditions as Ganeshotsav approaches.

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