Raj thackeray Uses Wit to Critique Maharashtra Politics, honors Bal Thackeray’s Legacy
A sharp commentary on the current political climate in Maharashtra, delivered wiht trademark humor, marked Raj Thackeray’s address in Mumbai on Thursday. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief spoke ahead of a planned joint appearance with his cousin, Uddhav Thackeray, at an event commemorating the birth centenary of the late Shiv Sena founder, balasaheb Thackeray.
The Thackeray brothers came together at Shanmukhanand Hall following recent civic body elections,participating in a special programme dedicated to the memory of Balasaheb Thackeray. The event served as a rare public display of unity between the cousins amidst a backdrop of shifting political alliances.
Opening his speech, Raj Thackeray employed a lighthearted anecdote to address the post-election atmosphere. He recounted a story about the contrasting health of Uddhav thackeray before and after the elections, noting a curious reversal. “While Uddhav Thackeray was unwell ahead of the elections, the situation reversed after the polls, leaving him sick instead,” he quipped, drawing laughter from the audience.
The MNS chief then shared a personal story involving his family physician, Dr. Yadav, preemptively addressing potential misconceptions. He jokingly clarified that, despite the name, Dr.Yadav is Marathi, not North Indian.He recounted recommending the doctor to Uddhav Thackeray, who reportedly recovered within two days. Though, Raj Thackeray added with a wry smile, “I have been taking the same medicines for a week without any betterment. I think even my doctor has jumped ship and changed parties!” This remark, widely interpreted as a jab at the fluid political loyalties within maharashtra, resonated strongly with the crowd.
turning to a more somber tone, Raj Thackeray expressed his belief that Balasaheb Thackeray would have been disheartened by the present state of affairs. He described a political landscape where principles seem to be compromised, stating that people were being “sold on the ‘chawdi’ cross roads.” He further characterized the current situation as “indecent and repulsive,” signaling a deep concern over the erosion of political integrity.
Raj Thackeray also shared a post he had written on X (formerly Twitter), expressing his sentiments in remembrance of Balasaheb Thackeray as his birth centenary year commenced.
The joint appearance of the Thackeray cousins,following a period of political distance,underscores the enduring legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray and the complex dynamics within maharashtra’s political landscape. The event served not only as a tribute to a towering figure in state politics but also as a moment for reflection on the challenges facing the region today.
Published By: Akshat Trivedi
Published On: Jan 23, 2026
Why: Raj Thackeray delivered a speech critiquing the current political climate in Maharashtra and honoring his uncle, balasaheb Thackeray, during the commencement of his birth centenary year.
Who: The key figures involved are Raj thackeray (MNS chief), Uddhav Thackeray (former Chief Minister), and the late Balasaheb Thackeray (Shiv Sena founder). Dr. Yadav, Raj Thackeray’s physician, was also mentioned.
What: Raj Thackeray used humor and anecdotes to criticize the shifting political loyalties and perceived decline in principles within Maharashtra politics. He and Uddhav Thackeray jointly appeared at an event commemorating Balasaheb Thackeray.
How did it end?: The event concluded with a joint appearance by the thackeray cousins, symbolizing a temporary unity amidst political differences. Raj Thackeray’s speech served as both a tribute to his uncle and a commentary on the current state of Maharashtra politics, expressing concern over its integrity. The event highlighted the enduring legacy of Balasaheb thackeray and the complex political dynamics of the region.
