In the vibrant heart of Mumbai lies the Mumbai South Central constituency, a place steeped in political history. It was within these bustling streets that the Shiv Sena, a formidable political force, took its first steps. The year was 1966 when Bal Thackeray, the charismatic founder, laid the foundation of the party's ideology within the confines of his rented residence at Shivaji Park. Fast forward to today, and the spirit of the Sena is experiencing a renaissance, driven by a group of seasoned veterans—former Shiv Sainiks whose ages range from 70 to 80 years old.
Jestha Shiv Sainik Kaksh
Under the banner of the Jestha Shiv Sainik Kaksh (Senior Shiv Sena Wing) at Sena Bhavan in Dadar, these stalwarts are rallying behind the call to preserve the essence of the "authentic" Shiv Sena, now under the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray. Their mission is clear: to serve as guardians of "democracy and the Constitution" in a rapidly changing political landscape. Gathering for their inaugural meeting in October 2022 at Miranda Wadi, these veterans mark a symbolic resurgence of Sena's founding principles. Their strategic approach, outlined by Vishwanath Khatate (76), the venerable chair of the wing, emphasizes extensive outreach to former party affiliates and their extended networks. Their aim is to galvanize public awareness about contemporary issues and the imperative of informed voting.
Championing Marathi Identity Amidst Modern Challenges
Embedded within the fabric of their mission is the age-old commitment to champion the rights of the Marathi manus (Marathi people). They perceive a resurgence of relevance for this cause amidst perceived threats to the cultural heritage of Mumbai and Maharashtra. Drawing parallels with historical narratives, they express concerns about the perceived centralization of power away from Maharashtra under the current administration, accentuating the need for regional preservation. As the political landscape of Mumbai undergoes a seismic shift, these seasoned citizens rise early each day, traversing the bustling streets of Mumbai to reach Sena Bhavan and beyond by noon. Theirs is a journey fueled not by nostalgia alone but by a steadfast commitment to preserve the legacy of the Shiv Sena and uphold the values it was founded upon. In the face of internal rifts and external challenges, they stand united, their voices echoing through the corridors of power, a testament to the enduring spirit of Mumbai's political legacy.
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