Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, on Friday, visited the under-construction memorial of party founder Balasaheb Thackeray, which is set to be completed by January 23, 2026. During his visit, Thackeray made a witty remark about the memorial’s inauguration, stating it would be done by “whoever is the Prime Minister then.”
A Political Twist
When asked who would lead the inauguration ceremony, Thackeray humorously pointed out the unpredictability of Indian politics. “Can anyone predict what will happen in politics tomorrow?” he said. “If there is an NDA government, their representatives might come. Whoever is in power at that time will attend. I was the Chief Minister during the foundation stone ceremony, but now I am not,” he added, referencing the ever-changing political landscape in Maharashtra.
Heritage and Challenges of the Memorial
The memorial, being constructed at the site of the former Mayor’s Bungalow near Swatantryaveer Smarak in Dadar, holds significant historical value. Thackeray emphasized the heritage of the structure, stating, “Four Shiv Sena mayors have lived in this bungalow. Many important meetings of Balasaheb Thackeray, including those of the Mahayuti alliance, were held here. Preserving the grandeur of this heritage structure while carrying out construction was a challenging task.”
The second phase of the memorial will focus on showcasing the life and contributions of Balasaheb Thackeray. Artists will bring his story to life through creative exhibits.
A Memorial Beyond Documentation
Thackeray shared the vision behind the memorial, highlighting that it is not just a documentation of Balasaheb’s life but a tribute to his values. “Often asked why he didn’t write an autobiography, Balasaheb said, ‘I am not a man of the closet; I am a man of the field.’ His life was like an open book,” Thackeray noted.
He added, “A memorial should reflect the principles he stood for and the legacy he left for Maharashtra, the nation, and Hindus. This memorial is meant to inspire future generations and uphold his vision.”
A Symbolic Timeline
The memorial is set for completion before Balasaheb Thackeray’s birth anniversary on January 23, 2026, marking a significant moment for the party and its supporters. Thackeray’s remarks and the progress on the memorial highlight the enduring influence of Balasaheb’s legacy in Maharashtra’s political and cultural history.