A historic moment unfolded in Maharashtra's political landscape on Saturday as cousins Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray shared a stage after almost two decades. During the 'Awaaz Marathi' rally at NSC Dome, Raj Thackeray, the leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), praised the government's decision to roll back its three-language formula, describing it as a triumph for Marathi identity and attributing this victory to Marathi unity.
While addressing the rally, Raj Thackeray stated, “I had mentioned in an interview that my Maharashtra transcends any politics or disputes. Today, after 20 years, Uddhav and I have come together. It's an accomplishment by Devendra Fadnavis, bringing us (Raj and Uddhav) together, something even Balasaheb could not achieve.”
Raj's remarks were followed by thunderous applause. He subtly declared that any attempt to separate Mumbai from Maharashtra would never succeed. If anyone dared to intervene, the true strength of the Marathi people would surface.
Source: aajtak
'Why the Sudden Emphasis on Hindi?'
Criticizing the central government, Raj Thackeray questioned, “Why this sudden push towards Hindi? It's not about love for the language, but an agenda. An attempt is being made to impose Hindi upon us. This cannot be tolerated. When our children study in English medium, questions arise about our Marathi identity. However, when BJP leaders attended missionary schools, nobody doubted their Hindutva. This hypocrisy won't be acceptable.”
He mentioned that both Balasaheb Thackeray and his father Shrikant Thackeray studied in English medium but never abandoned Marathi. He recounted an incident from 1999 when the BJP-Shiv Sena government seemed possible and BJP leader Suresh Jain proposed to meet Balasaheb about Suresh becoming the Chief Minister. Balasaheb had then clearly stated that only a Marathi individual could become Maharashtra's Chief Minister.
Drawing parallels with South India, he said, “Stalin, Kanimozhi, Jayalalitha, N. Lokesh, A.R. Rahman, Surya, all studied in English medium. Does it undermine their Tamil affinity? Once, Rahman even walked off stage during a Hindi speech. This proves their commitment.”
He stated emphatically, “If tomorrow I learn Hebrew, why should anyone care? Learn from South India, where they've demonstrated solidarity for their language. In the South, there's unity for Tamil and Telugu, yet in Maharashtra, there are attempts to create divides. Maharashtra has unified; next will be caste politics to fracture the unity built for Marathi language.”
Source: aajtak
'Stay United Like the Maratha Regiment'
Raj Thackeray cited the Indian Army as an example, “We have Maratha, Bihar, Naga Regiments. They're different, but they unite to fight for India during wars. Similarly, the Marathi community must remain united.”
'Exaggerating the Mira Road Incident: A Mistake'
Commenting on the recent Mira Road incident, Raj Thackeray remarked, “If someone got slapped in a scuffle and turned out to be Gujarati, what should be done? Can you tell who someone is from their forehead? Don't hit anyone unnecessarily, but don't stay silent if provoked. And stop making videos of fights. Don't hit without reason, but make sure to teach a lesson if anyone errs.”
He noted that numerous Gujarati friends cherish Marathi. “I refer to one Gujarati as 'Guj-rathi' because he genuinely connects with Marathi. Many Gujarati friends even attend my speeches at Shivaji Park.”
In conclusion, he mentioned that governments will change, alliances will form and dissolve, but there will be no compromise on Marathi language and culture. This was Balasaheb's vision and our commitment today.