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Mumbai: Both factions of the Shiv Sena will hold simultaneous Dussehra rallies in Mumbai today, both seeking to demonstrate their strength ahead of the municipal elections. The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) will hold its annual Dussehra rally at 5 p.m. at Shivaji Park in Dadar West. This event will continue the party's tradition of holding rallies at Shivaji Park, which began in 1966 during the time of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. Where will Shiv Sena Shinde's rally be held? On the other hand, the Eknath Shinde-led faction will hold its rally at the NESCO Exhibition Centre in Goregaon at 6 p.m. This faction had initially expressed a desire to use Azad Maidan, but the venue was changed after heavy rains caused waterlogging. Shinde has stated that the event will also include an appeal for donations for farmers and flood-affected families. The rallies by both Shiv Sena factions are being considered the last major rallies before the upcoming local body elections, especially the BMC. Both rallies are expected to feature sharp criticism of each other, as well as broader appeals for Marathi identity, flood relief, and development. Thackeray Accuses Fadnavis Government Before the rally, Uddhav Thackeray stated in a press conference that his speech would focus on the government's handling of issues such as inflation, unemployment, and flood relief. Thackeray attacked the ruling Mahayuti government and accused it of ignoring public suffering on key fronts such as unemployment, inflation, and distress in rural areas. He said, "This Dussehra rally will not be just a cultural event, but the voice of the people." Will Raj Thackeray also join? He emphasized that the rally will reaffirm his faction's claim to the Shiv Sena's legacy. Party sources said that Uddhav Thackeray may use the platform to further clarify his stance on a possible alliance with MNS chief Raj Thackeray, although no formal announcement is expected at the rally. His party has indicated that Raj Thackeray may attend the rally at Shivaji Park. Sanjay Raut said the rally will be historic. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut said, "This rally will be historic. The other side's meeting will only produce smoke." He questioned Shinde's attempt to usurp Bal Thackeray's legacy, saying that Thackeray "does not understand the late leader." Shinde said this... Earlier, addressing his supporters, Shinde said, "While maintaining the traditional grandeur of the Dussehra rally, we have added an important aspect of social commitment this year. The purpose of this rally is not only a show of political strength, but also to collect relief funds for farmers and flood victims. This gathering will be dedicated to the farmers." Eknath Shinde has requested workers from flood-affected areas to stay in their districts and cooperate with relief efforts instead of coming to Mumbai for the event. Mumbai Police have made elaborate security arrangements. More than 19,000 police personnel, including constables, officers, and special units, will be deployed across the city to manage crowd movement, traffic diversions, and maintain law and order. With a large number of people expected to arrive in Mumbai from across Maharashtra, authorities have planned to close roads and impose traffic restrictions around Shivaji Park, Goregaon, and other major access points.