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Raj Thackeray: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray on Friday paid heartfelt tributes to the founder of Shiv Sena, Balasaheb Thackeray, on the occasion of his 100th birth anniversary. He stated that even decades after his passing, Balasaheb’s influence on Maharashtra’s politics, society, and cultural identity continues to remain unmatched. According to Raj Thackeray, leaders may come and go, but only a few manage to leave an imprint that shapes generations, and Balasaheb was one such rare personality.

A Leader Beyond Centenary Celebrations

Raj Thackeray reflected on how history remembers many figures during milestone anniversaries, yet very few continue to guide public thought long after their era has ended. He emphasised that Balasaheb Thackeray belonged to that exceptional category of leaders whose relevance does not fade with time. His ideas, speeches, and political instincts, Raj said, still resonate strongly in Maharashtra’s public life, making his centenary not just a moment of remembrance but of continued inspiration.

Contrast With Today’s Political Environment

Commenting on the present political scenario, Raj Thackeray pointed out a significant shift from the ideological politics of Balasaheb’s time. He observed that contemporary politics often revolves around convenience, electoral calculations, and short-term strategies rather than firm beliefs. According to him, loyalty and principles today are frequently compromised for immediate gains, whereas Balasaheb measured success by commitment to identity, language, and people, not by numerical strength in legislatures.

Power Was Never The Ultimate Goal

Raj Thackeray stressed that Balasaheb Thackeray never sought power for personal ambition. Instead, his true satisfaction came from empowering ordinary workers and giving them a platform to lead. He described Balasaheb as a leader who believed in shaping leaders rather than occupying official positions himself. This quality, he said, is what set Balasaheb apart and earned him lasting respect across sections of society.

A Vision That Will Last Generations

The MNS chief predicted that Balasaheb’s legacy would remain relevant even at his 200th birth anniversary. He highlighted that political authority is temporary, but the power to inspire generations is permanent. Balasaheb’s farsighted thinking, Raj noted, continues to align with present-day realities and will remain meaningful in the future as well.

Flexibility With Principles Intact

Addressing questions around changing political strategies, Raj Thackeray acknowledged that modern politics demands tactical flexibility. However, he assured supporters that any flexible approach adopted by him would always be in the larger interest of the Marathi people and never for personal benefit. Drawing a parallel with Balasaheb’s own political journey, he explained that even when circumstances required adjustments, Balasaheb’s love for Maharashtra and the Marathi community only grew stronger.

Commitment To Marathi Identity

Raj Thackeray reaffirmed his emotional bond with Balasaheb’s ideals, stating that he was among millions who were drawn to politics after witnessing Balasaheb’s fierce love for the Marathi language and the land of Maharashtra. He asserted that the faith placed in the values associated with Balasaheb and Marathi identity would never weaken, regardless of political transformations.

Responsibility Of The Next Generation

Concluding his tribute, Raj Thackeray called upon the next generation to carry forward the struggle initiated by Balasaheb Thackeray without diluting its essence. He promised that the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena would remain committed to protecting Marathi pride, language, and cultural roots. On this historic centenary, the party joined the people of the state in saluting the memory of the iconic leader and renewing its pledge to keep his vision alive and vibrant.