In a candid interview ahead of the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election, Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray asserted that the contest is not merely political but a defining struggle for Maharashtra Dharma — a term he used to describe the duty to safeguard the state’s cultural identity and Marathi pride.
“This battle is not about power or positions; it is about Maharashtra Dharma — about protecting the soul, culture and dignity of Maharashtra and the Marathi people,” Thackeray said during the interview.
Thackeray, emphasized that the January 15 municipal polls represent “a battle for survival… not just for us but for the Marathi people in Mumbai,” framing his party’s campaign in terms of preserving local heritage and community interests.
Alliance with Raj Thackeray on Maharashtra Dharma
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader highlighted his recent political collaboration with cousin Raj Thackeray, head of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, as rooted in shared cultural values rather than opportunistic politics. The two leaders have stressed that their alliance reflects a united stand for Maharashtra Dharma — protecting the state’s ethos after years of factional splits and political upheavals.
Both leaders have accused the ruling Mahayuti administration of undermining Marathi identity and neglecting local development, even warning that Mumbai’s cultural character is at risk if proactive measures aren’t taken.
Focus on Marathi Pride and Civic Issues
Thackeray’s campaign messaging revolves around prioritizing the interests of Marathi-speaking residents, development of local infrastructure, cleanliness, and asserting Mumbai’s unique identity amid rapid urban change. He also criticized other political parties for driving a wedge between cultural priorities and municipal governance.
Political Context Ahead of BMC Polls
The BMC election is seen as a litmus test for the Shiv Sena (UBT) after major splits in the party and shifting electoral dynamics over the past few years. Opposition parties contend that the Maharashtra Dharma narrative is a strategy to consolidate regional votes, while supporters of Thackeray argue it reflects genuine concern for the state’s heritage.
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Looking Ahead
With less than a week to go before voting, political debates in Mumbai are intensifying around cultural identity, urban governance, and the future of local leadership. As the campaign enters its final phase, Maharashtra Dharma remains a central talking point among voters and political strategists alike.
