On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tributes to the iconic leader of Maratha politics, Balasaheb Thackeray, on his 12th death anniversary. In a post on X, the Prime Minister hailed Thackeray as a visionary whose contributions played a pivotal role in the development of Maharashtra and the empowerment of the Marathi people.
Modi highlighted Thackeray’s steadfast belief in promoting Indian culture and values, noting that his bold voice and determination continue to inspire generations even after his passing.
Thackeray’s legacy is one that resonates deeply within Maharashtra. As the founder of the Shiv Sena and the Marathi-language newspaper Saamana, he advocated relentlessly for the rights and interests of the Marathi-speaking population, particularly in Mumbai’s political and professional spheres.
Despite his massive influence on Maharashtra’s political landscape, Thackeray never held an official government position, yet his impact on the state’s political fabric remains undeniable.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took to social media to remember Balasaheb Thackeray, describing him as an "eminent politician" dedicated to the causes of Sanatan culture and national interests.
Shah praised Thackeray’s unwavering commitment to his values, saying that his dedication to his ideology and principles made him a model of inspiration, especially during difficult circumstances.
Amit Shah emphasised that Thackeray’s contributions to the nation’s political and cultural landscape were rooted in his strong belief in Sanatan culture and his refusal to compromise on his principles, regardless of the political challenges he faced.
Congress leader and Member of Parliament, Rahul Gandhi, also remembered Balasaheb Thackeray on this sombre occasion. He posted a message on X, expressing his condolences and extending his thoughts to Thackeray’s family, including Uddhav Thackeray and Aditya, as well as the entire Shiv Sena family.
Gandhi acknowledged Thackeray’s significant role in shaping Maharashtra’s politics and culture, reflecting the deep respect that even his political rivals held for him.
Born on January 23, 1926, in Pune, Balasaheb Thackeray began his professional journey as a cartoonist for the English-language daily The Free Press Journal. However, his passion for social and political issues soon led him to leave his profession and found the Shiv Sena in 1966.
His aim was to address the concerns of the Marathi-speaking people and provide them with a platform for political expression. Thackeray’s leadership style and his advocacy for the Marathi community brought him immense respect and admiration, both within Maharashtra and beyond.
Over the years, Thackeray’s influence grew, and his Shiv Sena party became a formidable force in state politics. Despite the controversies surrounding his methods and political strategies, he was never one to shy away from standing firm on his beliefs.
Thackeray’s political journey was marked by his vocal stance on issues such as the rights of Marathi-speaking people, the development of Mumbai, and his assertive support for nationalism. His legacy continues to influence not only the Shiv Sena but also the broader political and cultural landscape of Maharashtra.
Balasaheb Thackeray was also a staunch advocate for the preservation of Indian culture and values. His unwavering commitment to these causes earned him a reputation as one of the most influential and controversial political figures in Maharashtra's history.
He was not just a politician, but a cultural leader who shaped the identity of the Marathi people and gave them a voice in a rapidly changing political environment.
On this 12th death anniversary, the tributes pouring in from leaders across the political spectrum reflect the deep impact Thackeray had on Maharashtra's political and cultural fabric.
His legacy continues to shape the discourse in the state, as his son, Uddhav Thackeray, and the Shiv Sena party carry forward his vision in contemporary politics.
Balasaheb Thackeray's contributions to the empowerment of the Marathi community and his steadfast commitment to his beliefs will forever be remembered in the history of Maharashtra.
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