Maharashtra Navanirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray, during his annual Gudi Padwa rally at Shivaji Park, took a firm stand against attempts to incite communal discord over Aurangzebs tomb. Addressing a large gathering, he stressed that history should not be interpreted through the lens of caste and religion. He also urged people not to rely on WhatsApp forwards for historical knowledge, cautioning against misinformation and politically motivated narratives.

The Historical Perspective: Lessons from Shivaji and Sambhaji Maharaj

During his speech, Thackeray highlighted historical events to put current issues in perspective. He pointed out that the Mughal ruler, Aurangzeb aimed to obliterate a philosophy embodied by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj but ultimately failed. Aurangzeb died in Maharashtra, unable to erase the thought of Shivaji, he remarked.

Further elaborating on history, Thackeray referenced Afzal Khan, the Bijapur general, who was buried near Pratapgadh Fort. He asserted that such an act could not have taken place without Shivaji Maharajs permission, suggesting that even in death, enemies were given due respect. His remarks were directed at the growing demands from right-wing groups calling for the removal of Aurangzebs tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar districta controversy that had recently led to violent protests in Nagpur.

The Danger of Misinformation and Selective Outrage

Thackeray criticized how people often get swayed by movies and social media narratives rather than learning about history through proper sources. We have forgotten the real issues of today. If you feel awakened about Hindutva only after watching a movie, then that awakening is of no use, he said. Referring to the recent film Chhaava, based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, he questioned if people learned about Sambhajis sacrifice only because of actors like Vicky Kaushal or about Aurangzeb because of Akshaye Khannas portrayal.

He also took a dig at those who manipulate history for their own political benefit, asserting that such individuals have no real concern for historical accuracy but rather seek to provoke the public for their own gains. Aurangzeb was born in Dahod, Gujarat, he reminded the audience, underlining the need for a more rational approach to history rather than emotional manipulation.

Religion and Politics: The Path to Progress

Thackeray strongly emphasized that a country cannot progress solely based on religion. Citing the example of Turkey and its reforms, he argued that religious beliefs should remain a personal matter, confined to ones home. A Hindu remembers he is a Hindu only when Muslims take to the streets or during riots; otherwise, caste divides Hindus, he remarked, highlighting internal divisions within the community.

He also addressed the political landscape, particularly criticizing the BJP-led governments failure to deliver on its promises regarding the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme. He predicted that the scheme would eventually be scrapped, reminding his audience that he had warned them earlier. Opposition parties have been vocal in their criticism of the states Mahayuti governmentcomprising BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCPaccusing them of not increasing the promised financial assistance under the scheme from 1,500 to 2,100, as pledged before the previous assembly elections.

Environmental Concerns: Pollution in the Name of Religion

Another major point Thackeray addressed was environmental degradation, particularly the pollution of rivers. He condemned religious practices that harm natural resources and presented a video purportedly showing bodies being burned and dumped into the river Ganga. What kind of religion is this if we destroy our natural resources? he questioned, pointing out that despite 33,000 crore being spent on cleaning the Ganga, pollution remains rampant.

Shifting focus to Maharashtra, he highlighted the severe pollution of the states rivers. Of the 311 most polluted river patches in the country, 55 are from Maharashtra, he said. Mumbai, once home to five rivers, now has only one surviving river, the Mithi, which is on the verge of extinction due to sewage disposal, encroachments, and industrial waste.

The Role of Language and Identity

Thackeray also reiterated his partys stance on making the Marathi language mandatory for official communication. If you live here and dont speak Marathi, you will be dealt with appropriately, he warned, emphasizing the need for linguistic and cultural respect among residents of Maharashtra.

His speech resonated with themes of historical awareness, environmental responsibility, and cultural identity while also taking a strong stance against communal agitation. Through his address, he urged the people of Maharashtra to focus on present-day challenges rather than getting caught up in politically motivated historical debates.