Andheri's Lokhandwala Market will neither look the same nor give out the same vibe during Diwali like previous years as the Lokhandwala Vyapari Mandal has, for the first time in almost a decade, decided to not put up the festive lights that adorn the entire stretch of the market from Diwali till Christmas. The decision has been taken in view of the pandemic and to ensure that social distancing norms are followed and excessive crowds prevented as the lighting is a major attraction for shoppers.

To prevent crowds

Speaking to mid-day, Raichand Jain, president of the mandal, said this year they had not asked for donations from shopkeepers, who are also members of the mandal, to put up the Diwali lights. When asked if the decision would impact businesses at the market, Jain said, "A lot of people come here to just roam the streets. We want to prevent that."