Raj Thackeray, the leader of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), has expressed criticism against certain entities—allegedly specific leaders and television channels—attempting to “erode the unity of the state” by engaging in caste-based politics.
“The ongoing caste politics is not operating independently. It is being orchestrated by those who seek to disrupt the unity of Maharashtra. Some individuals are actively working to dismantle the unity of Maharashtra,” Thackeray remarked during an interview with financial expert and playwright Deepak Karanjikar at the 100th Marathi Natya Sammelan in Chinchwad on Sunday.
“We may be unaware of what is transpiring, but certain leaders and media outlets are endeavoring to fracture the unity of Maharashtra,” he added.
Emphasizing the urgency for the middle class to participate in politics, he stated, “I will continue to voice my concerns. I will do it consistently. I aim to rouse the Marathi Manoos. Presently, the Marathi Manoos faces challenges geographically… The middle class must engage in politics and social spheres. Education alone is not sufficient.”
Expressing regret that Marathi artists lack mutual respect, Thackeray noted, “There exists a disparity between Marathi artists and those from other states. Artists from other states demonstrate respect for one another, but Marathi actors do not reciprocate such regard.”
Thackeray conveyed that if Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar were to appear before him, he would bow his head and extend greetings. “This is because he is an elder. What I express on the stage is a separate matter,” he clarified.
Disclosing that he is in the process of writing a book on the late melody queen Lata Mangeshkar, the MNS chief revealed, “I am actively working on it. When I presented the book cover to Lata didi, she responded with a ‘waah’.”