Thackeray Cousins Reunite at Balasaheb Centenary Event, Decry Maharashtra Political Climate
In a significant political moment, the Thackeray cousins, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, shared a dais for the first time after the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election results. The event marked the commencement of the centenary year celebrations for Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray, bringing together the estranged relatives in a show of familial and political solidarity.
Raj Thackeray Expresses Distress Over Kalyan-Dombivli Developments
During his speech, Raj Thackeray, leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), voiced his deep disturbance over recent events in Kalyan-Dombivli. He described the political maneuvers there as "disgusting", highlighting a broader trend in Maharashtra politics. This comes after five MNS corporators in the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) declared their support for Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena faction earlier this week. While a local MNS ex-MLA claimed Raj had given his "nod" for this move, Uddhav Thackeray faction MP Sanjay Raut had previously stated that Raj was "distraught" by the developments.
Raj Thackeray elaborated on his concerns, drawing a stark analogy: "Earlier, people used to be auctioned in the bazaar. Today, auctions are on in Maharashtra like that. It's happening in all districts. Seeing the current picture, I feel it is disgusting." He expressed relief that Balasaheb Thackeray is not alive to witness the current state of affairs, noting how pained the founder would have been.
Uddhav Thackeray Vows to Rebuild and Protect Legacy
Uddhav Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), addressed the audience with a resolve to "start afresh" following the BMC poll results. He announced plans to visit shakhas across Mumbai and tour the state, reinforcing his commitment to grassroots connectivity. Without directly naming Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Uddhav criticized their tactics, stating, "These two businessmen are using our own sticks to beat us with." He also took a swipe at Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, questioning what was achieved by removing Chhatrapati Shivaji's saffron flag from the BMC headquarters.
Uddhav praised his party activists for their resilience in the Mumbai elections, emphasizing their success in retaining traditional bastions. He reflected on his bond with Raj, saying, "Raj and I spent our childhood together. We are children who grew up playing amid storms, so no one needs to teach us how to fight a storm." He underscored the challenges of leadership, adding, "Only the one who has responsibility on his shoulders can understand how difficult it is to bear the responsibility of a storm as one has to fight it."
He further lamented the use of money in Mumbai elections, urging Mumbaikars to discern between protectors and opportunists. "Mumbaikars should think about who is protecting them and who is doing business. We are fighting and will fight," he asserted, calling for a renewed beginning.
Raj Thackeray's Emotional Reflections in Saamna Article
In a poignant article published in the Shiv Sena mouthpiece Saamna on Friday, Raj Thackeray delved into his emotional turmoil after leaving the Shiv Sena in 2005. He wrote, "More than quitting the party, leaving the house was more painful. I had lost my father, and I was now going far away from my uncle. The thought was eating me up." He revealed that the inability to meet Balasaheb frequently hurt him more than the political rupture itself.
Raj reaffirmed his commitment to Balasaheb's legacy, stating that the struggle for the Marathi language and people would continue. He acknowledged that while political circumstances might necessitate flexible positions, any such adaptability in his politics would never be for personal gain. "I give my word once again today that even if I take a slightly flexible stance in this completely transformed politics, it will never be for my personal gain or selfish interests," he vowed. He emphasized that his faith, and that of his party workers, in the ideals embodied by 'Balasaheb' and 'Marathi' remains unshaken.
Political Implications and Future Outlook
The reunion of the Thackeray cousins at this centenary event signals a potential thaw in their strained relationship, putting to rest speculations of friction following MNS's support to Shiv Sena in KDMC. Their united front against what they perceive as degrading political practices in Maharashtra underscores a shared concern for the state's political integrity. As both leaders prepare for future electoral battles, their speeches and writings highlight a dual focus on legacy preservation and strategic resilience.
This event not only commemorates Balasaheb Thackeray's contributions but also sets the stage for renewed political dynamics in Maharashtra, with the Thackeray cousins positioning themselves as guardians of Marathi pride and ethical governance.
