Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tribute to Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray on his birth centenary, describing him as a towering personality who deeply shaped Maharashtra’s socio-political landscape. The Prime Minister said Thackeray’s vision for the state’s progress continues to inspire generations and that efforts will always be made to realise his ideals.

In a post on social media platform X, PM Modi said that Balasaheb Thackeray was a figure who left a profound imprint on Maharashtra through his sharp intellect, powerful oratory and unwavering ideological commitment. He noted that Thackeray shared a unique bond with the people and remained closely connected to social and cultural issues.

The Prime Minister highlighted that apart from politics, Thackeray had a keen interest in culture, literature and journalism. He said Thackeray’s work as a cartoonist reflected his sharp observation of society and fearless commentary on contemporary issues. PM Modi added that Thackeray’s vision for Maharashtra’s development continues to guide public life.

Balasaheb Thackeray was born on January 23, 1926, in Pune and passed away on November 17, 2012, in Mumbai. An Indian journalist, cartoonist and politician, he founded the Shiv Sena, which went on to become a dominant force in Maharashtra’s politics. Known for advocating a strong pro-Hindu ideology, Thackeray left a lasting impact on the state’s political and cultural identity.

He began his professional career in the early 1950s as a cartoonist in Mumbai, with his work also appearing in international publications, including Japan’s Asahi Shimbun and the Sunday edition of The New York Times. Over time, his political observations drew him increasingly towards active politics.

In the 1960s, Thackeray launched the Marathi-language weekly Marmik along with his brother. Through the publication, he criticised what he saw as the growing influence of outsiders in Maharashtra, arguing that local residents were being deprived of employment opportunities. This line of thought later formed the foundation of the Shiv Sena in 1966, built around the slogan “Maharashtra for Maharashtrians”.

Despite never holding a constitutional post or contesting elections, Thackeray was regarded as one of the most influential figures in Maharashtra for decades. Revered by supporters as Hindu Hridaysamrat, his authority was such that during the Shiv Sena-BJP government in 1995, Bombay was officially renamed Mumbai, after Goddess Mumbadevi.

Senior Congress MP Shashi Tharoor is likely to skip an important meeting of the party’s Kerala leadership scheduled for Friday afternoon, with sources indicating that the four-time Lok Sabha member is upset over a perceived lack of due respect during Rahul Gandhi’s recent visit to Kochi.

The meeting, set to be attended by senior leaders including Rahul Gandhi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, is aimed at reviewing preparations for the Kerala Assembly election later this year. Tharoor, who represents Thiruvananthapuram, is expected to be absent.

Sources said the diplomat-turned-politician has been unhappy with the party’s handling of his role during the Kochi visit, adding to existing strain between him and the Congress’ central leadership.

Tharoor has in recent months found himself under scrutiny within the party following remarks that were seen as appreciative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. These include comments on the Prime Minister’s response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and subsequent military strikes on Pakistan, as well as occasional critical observations aired through media interactions.

The tension resurfaced on Thursday after Tharoor shared a selfie with former BJP MP and current India men’s cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir. In his post, Tharoor praised Gambhir for handling what he described as “the second-hardest job in India,” after the Prime Minister’s role.

The post drew a sharp response from a BJP spokesperson, who linked Tharoor’s comments on cricket fans questioning coaching decisions to the opposition’s criticism of the Prime Minister. The BJP leader accused the opposition of prioritising family interests over national concerns and suggested that Tharoor’s remarks once again highlighted divisions within the Congress.

The episode underscores the continuing unease between Shashi Tharoor and the Congress leadership, a rift that political rivals have frequently highlighted in public discourse.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tributes to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary, observed as Parakram Diwas, recalling the freedom fighter’s fearless leadership, unwavering patriotism and enduring contribution to India’s independence struggle.

In a series of posts on X, the prime minister said Netaji’s ideals continue to inspire generations to build a strong and self-reliant India. He also outlined steps taken by his government to preserve and promote Bose’s legacy, while criticising previous governments for neglecting his historical contribution.

“On the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, which is commemorated as Parakram Diwas, we recall his indomitable courage, resolve and unparalleled contribution to the nation,” PM Modi said, adding that Bose symbolised fearless leadership and deep patriotism.

Recalling personal inspiration and early initiatives

The prime minister said Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose had always inspired him and recalled launching the e-Gram Vishwagram Yojana in Gujarat on January 23, 2009, during his tenure as chief minister, as a tribute to the freedom fighter.

He noted that the scheme, aimed at transforming Gujarat’s IT landscape, was launched from Haripura, a place closely associated with Bose. PM Modi said he vividly remembered the public reception and procession organised along the same route where Netaji had once travelled.

PM Modi also recalled a major programme organised in Ahmedabad in 2012 to mark Azad Hind Fauj Day, which was attended by people inspired by Bose, including former Lok Sabha Speaker P A Sangma.

Criticism of past governments

The prime minister said remembering Netaji’s contribution did not “fit the agenda of those who ruled the nation for decades,” alleging that efforts were made to forget his role in India’s freedom movement.

“Our beliefs are different. At every possible juncture, we have popularised his life and ideals,” he said, describing the declassification of files and documents related to Netaji Bose as a landmark step.

Key initiatives highlighted

PM Modi said 2018 marked a significant year, citing the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Azad Hind government at the Red Fort and the 75th anniversary of Bose unfurling the tricolour in Srivijayapuram, now Port Blair.

He also noted that three prominent islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands were renamed, including Ross Island, which was renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep.

At the Red Fort, the Kranti Mandir museum houses historical material related to Netaji Bose and the Indian National Army, including the cap worn by the leader, the prime minister said.

Statue near India Gate and Parakram Diwas

The prime minister said Netaji’s birth anniversary was officially declared as Parakram Diwas to honour his legacy. He also referred to his 2021 visit to Netaji Bhawan in Kolkata, from where Bose made his historic escape.

Highlighting a symbolic move to shed colonial mindset, PM Modi said the decision to install a grand statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose near India Gate reflected the government’s reverence for the freedom fighter.

“This grand statue will inspire people for generations to come,” the prime minister said.