Raj Thackeray, chief of the Maharashtra Navanirman Sena (MNS), has strongly criticized the growing communal tensions surrounding the issue of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Sambhaji Nagar (formerly Aurangabad). Speaking at his annual Gudhi Padwa rally in Mumbai, Thackeray urged people to seek historical knowledge from books instead of WhatsApp forwards, emphasizing the need for a more informed society rather than one swayed by misinformation.

Aurangzeb’s Tomb Controversy and Communal Tensions

The Aurangzeb tomb controversy has led to rising tensions in Maharashtra, with right-wing groups such as the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal demanding that the monument be removed from the state and that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) withdraw its protection from the site. The issue has sparked violent protests in Nagpur, with clashes erupting between different factions over the perceived historical and political significance of Aurangzeb’s legacy.

Speaking on the matter, Thackeray asserted that it was the Marathas who ultimately defeated their enemies, saying, “Don’t we want to let the world know that those who sought to destroy the Marathas were wiped out instead?” His statement aimed at redirecting the narrative away from communal disputes and towards historical pride and awareness.

Criticism of Movie-Influenced Political Awakening

Referring to the recent wave of political sentiments fueled by films, Thackeray criticized those who suddenly express Hindu pride after watching Bollywood movies. He mocked the notion that people learned about Sambhaji Maharaj’s sacrifice from Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal and Aurangzeb’s cruelty from Akshaye Khanna, instead urging them to delve into authentic history books rather than relying on cinema for historical education.

In a direct challenge to the right-wing discourse, Thackeray also reminded people that Afzal Khan, the Bijapur general, was buried near Pratapgad Fort with permission from Chhatrapati Shivaji himself. He warned against manipulating history for political gains, calling for a more nuanced and factual understanding of historical events.

Aurangzeb’s Birthplace and Historical Manipulations

Further adding to his argument, Thackeray pointed out that Aurangzeb was not even born in Maharashtra but in Dahod, Gujarat. This statement was aimed at questioning why his tomb’s presence in Maharashtra is suddenly becoming a political flashpoint. He accused political groups of distorting historical narratives for personal or ideological gains, urging people to think critically instead of blindly following communal rhetoric.

Lessons from Turkey’s Modernization

Thackeray also touched upon the role of religion in governance, arguing that religion alone cannot drive a nation’s progress. Citing Turkey as an example, he pointed out how the country reformed and modernized itself while maintaining its cultural heritage. He emphasized that India should focus on economic and social development rather than getting entangled in religious disputes.

Political Reactions and Impact on Maharashtra’s Politics

Thackeray’s speech comes at a time when Maharashtra’s political landscape is highly polarized. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had previously cited the movie ‘Chhava’ as a reason behind the charged emotions surrounding the Aurangzeb tomb issue. However, Thackeray dismissed such justifications, urging leaders to address real issues like unemployment, education, and economic growth rather than focusing on historical controversies to divide people.

Call for Rational Thinking and Historical Awareness

In conclusion, Thackeray’s speech was a strong message against the misuse of history for political gains. He called upon Hindus to be rational, well-informed, and proactive in addressing present-day challenges rather than being influenced by films or social media misinformation. His emphasis on reading history from authentic sources rather than relying on WhatsApp forwards was a direct challenge to communal narratives that distort historical facts.

As Maharashtra continues to witness tensions over historical figures, Thackeray’s call for historical accuracy, rational thinking, and real progress is expected to influence the ongoing political discourse in the state.

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