Bal Thackeray Birth Anniversary: 5 lesser known facts about Shiv Sena founder

Bal Thackeray Birth Anniversary: 5 lesser known facts about Shiv Sena founder

From the historic portrait made of 33,000 rudraksha beads to Maharashtra Cabinet's Rs 100 crore memorial, India on Wednesday observed the 93rd birth anniversary of the Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray. To mark the birth anniversary of its iconic leader, the Shiv Sena has organised a grand event at the city mayor's bungalow. The event has marked attendance of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar. To make it even bigger, the Maharashtra Cabinet has also decided to construct a memorial worth Rs 100 crore at Dadar, where the last rites of the Shiv Sena founder were performed. Funds for the memorial will be provided by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). Thackeray, who was an influential figure in Maharashtra was largely motivated by the political ideologies of his father Keshav Sitaram Thackeray. A biopic of the leader who ruled the hearts of millions is also in the pipeline and deserves a watch. Thackeray breathed his last on 17 November, 2012 triggering a bandh across Maharashtra.

Bal Thackeray Birth Anniversary: 5 lesser known facts about Shiv Sena founder

Before stepping into politics, Thackeray began his professional career as a cartoonist with the English language daily 'The Free Press Journal' in Mumbai.

Bal Thackeray Birth Anniversary: 5 lesser known facts about Shiv Sena founder

In 1960 the Shiv Sena founder launched his own political weekly 'Marmik' to campaign against the growing influence of non-Marathis in Mumbai.

Bal Thackeray Birth Anniversary: 5 lesser known facts about Shiv Sena founder

Thackeray formed the Shiv Sena to advocate for the interests of Maharashtrians in Mumbai's political and professional landscape.

Bal Thackeray Birth Anniversary: 5 lesser known facts about Shiv Sena founder

Balasaheb is also known for his writing skills and received a wide condemnation for his views attacking Muslims and praising Adolf Hitler.

Bal Thackeray Birth Anniversary: 5 lesser known facts about Shiv Sena founder

In 1999, Thackeray was banned from voting and contesting any election for six years on the charges of indulging in seeking votes in the name of religion.