Mumbai, Jan 23 (NationPress) The Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) asserted on Friday that the founder of Shiv Sena, Balasaheb Thackeray, stood as a dedicated "Marathi Abhimani" (Proud Marathi), embracing all linguistic communities as long as they honored Mumbai’s identity. His interpretation of Hindutva is characterized as different from contemporary political versions, advocating for a "liberal Hindutva" that emphasizes national allegiance over religious extremism.

In an editorial in their publication 'Saamana', the party noted that even a century after his birth, Thackeray's "lion’s roar" has played a vital role in maintaining the Marathi essence in Mumbai, stating that despite modern skyscrapers replacing old factories, altering the city's landscape, the Shiv Sena persists in safeguarding the "Marathi-ness" of the capital.

This editorial discusses the historical fight for a cohesive Maharashtra. As Indian states were reorganized linguistically, the Marathi-speaking community had to endure a prolonged struggle with Delhi to establish Mumbai as its capital. Thackeray emerged as a fierce defender of this initiative, famously declaring that the Shiv Sena would staunchly protect the state from any attempts to divide or erode its integrity.

“If anyone attempts to nibble away at Maharashtra, Shiv Sena shall not rest until they are confronted,” articulated the "Lion’s Roar" of Balasaheb Thackeray. His voice symbolizes the strength of Maharashtra, echoing today and ensuring the preservation of the Marathi identity in Mumbai. Even after a century, this roar continues to resonate throughout the land and sky,” the editorial expressed.

According to the editorial, Thackeray’s leadership arose during a time when the Marathi community felt disenfranchised and neglected. By founding the Shiv Sena, he sparked a movement aimed at restoring pride and political representation, not out of provincialism, but as a battle for jobs, dignity, and self-respect. Additionally, he focused on preventing the complete displacement of the Marathi workforce from Mumbai’s evolving environment.

Thackeray drew significant inspiration from Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the architect of modern Turkey. He frequently urged Indian Muslims to emulate Ataturk by shedding the "shackles of fanaticism" and religious bondage, advocating for India as their true homeland and resisting being treated merely as a "vote bank" by political entities.

The centenary year of the late Shiv Sena supremo, Balasaheb Thackeray, has begun, marking a significant milestone for a leader whose impact continues to resonate across Maharashtra. Known as 'Hinduhriday-samrat', Thackeray would have celebrated his 100th birthday today, an occasion marked enthusiastically by his supporters and Shiv Sainiks throughout the state,” concluded the editorial.