Bal Thackeray birth anniversary: From cartoonist to controversial politician

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Bal Keshav Thackeray, also known as Balasaheb Thackeray, was born on January 23, 1926. Renowned as a political figure and cartoonist, he founded the Shiv Sena, a significant political party in India, to champion the interests of Maharashtrians in the state's politics. His father, Keshav Sitaram Thackeray, was involved in the Samyukta Maharashtra movement, influencing Balasaheb's philosophy. Starting his career as a cartoonist for the Free Press Popular Journal, he later established his political weekly, Marmik.

Thackeray, often called 'Tiger,' played a pivotal role in Maharashtra politics, implementing notable changes and making controversial decisions that impacted the country's political landscape. He gained fame for his political cartoons, initially signing them as 'Mava' in the Free Press Journal. Thackeray introduced the concept of 'Marathi Manoos,' becoming the symbol of Marathi pride and earning widespread adoration, leading to his moniker as the 'Tiger of Maharashtra.'

The Samyukta Maharashtra Movement aimed for a separate state for Marathi-speaking people, achieving success in 1960 with the formation of Maharashtra. However, Shiv Sena's establishment in 1966 altered the political dynamics, introducing attitudes towards non-Marathi speakers. Thackeray's affinity for Adolf Hitler and controversial remarks about Muslims stirred debate. He expressed admiration for Hitler's artistic abilities while acknowledging the wrongs committed, and his comments on Muslims faced criticism for being inflammatory. Thackeray said, "They [Muslims] are spreading like a cancer and should be operated on like a cancer."

Thackeray's association with the Shiv Sena led to the party gaining support from Hindu leaders and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The banning of Salman Rushdie's book, "The Moor's Last Sigh," in Maharashtra due to its mockery of Thackeray and Shiv Sena reflected the political climate. Thackeray's statements on forming Hindu suicide bomb squads to combat terrorism in 2008 through the Shiv Sena's mouthpiece, Saamana, also drew attention.

On his birthday, it is essential to recognize the complex legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray, encompassing both his contributions to Maharashtra politics and the controversies surrounding his statements and actions.