Remembering the Founder of Shiv Sena and the ‘Hindu Hriday Samrat’
On January 23, 2025, India observed the birth anniversary of Bal Thackeray, the iconic founder of Shiv Sena, known for his staunch Hindutva ideology and dedication to Marathi pride. Leaders across the political spectrum, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, paid homage to the late leader, celebrating his contributions to Maharashtra and Indian politics.
A Life Dedicated to Ideals and Regional Pride
Bal Thackeray, fondly remembered as Balasaheb, was born on January 23, 1926, in Pune, Maharashtra, into a Marathi Chandraseniya Kayastha Prabhu family. His father, Keshav Thackeray, was a noted writer, social activist, and a leader of the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement, which campaigned for a separate state for Marathi-speaking people in the 1950s.
Thackeray began his professional journey as a cartoonist with The Free Press Journal. His work gained significant recognition, with some of his cartoons featured in The Times of India’s Sunday edition. However, in 1960, he left his job and ventured into the realm of public activism and politics, a move that would define his legacy.
The Founding of Shiv Sena
In 1966, Bal Thackeray founded Shiv Sena with the primary aim of securing employment and economic stability for Maharashtrians in Maharashtra. The party became synonymous with Marathi pride and Hindutva, advocating for the rights of the local population in the face of rising migration.
Throughout the late 1960s and 1970s, Shiv Sena formed temporary coalitions with various Maharashtrian political groups, establishing itself as a significant political force. Thackeray’s fiery speeches, unwavering principles, and charismatic leadership earned him the title Hindu Hriday Samrat (Emperor of Hindu Hearts).
Tributes from Leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a heartfelt message on the microblogging platform X, hailed Thackeray’s commitment to public welfare and Maharashtra’s development.
“He is widely respected and remembered for his commitment to public welfare and towards Maharashtra’s development. He was uncompromising when it came to his core beliefs and always contributed towards enhancing the pride of Indian culture,” the Prime Minister wrote.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed his admiration for Thackeray’s unwavering ideological firmness. He remarked, “Devoted throughout his life to Sanatan culture and nationalism, respected Balasaheb Thackeray ji always gave priority to patriotism in his work. The ideological firmness of Balasaheb, who never gave up on his principles even in adverse circumstances, will always inspire.”
Tributes from the Shiv Sena Legacy
On his birth anniversary, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and his son Aaditya Thackeray led a tribute ceremony at Bal Thackeray’s statue in Fort, Mumbai. The event drew a large crowd of party workers and supporters, who offered floral tributes to the leader.
Speaking at the event, Uddhav Thackeray emphasized his father’s lasting influence on Indian politics and society. The event was a poignant reminder of the indelible mark Bal Thackeray left on Maharashtra and beyond.
A Legacy Remembered
Bal Thackeray passed away on November 17, 2012, at the age of 86 due to cardiac arrest. Despite his passing, his legacy lives on through the Shiv Sena, now split into two factions led by Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde, the current Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
His contributions to Indian politics, particularly in championing the causes of Marathi pride and Hindutva, continue to inspire political leaders and activists across the country.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information from public sources and political statements as of January 2025. It aims to provide an objective overview of Bal Thackeray’s legacy and his commemoration. For further insights, readers are encouraged to explore historical records and additional references.
