MNS Chief Raj Thackeray Urges Against Communal Tensions Over Aurangzeb’s Tomb
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has appealed for calm and rational thinking amid ongoing communal tensions over the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. Speaking at his annual Gudhi Padwa rally at Shivaji Park, Thackeray urged people not to view history through the lens of religion or caste and instead focus on learning from authentic sources.
“Stop reading history on WhatsApp and rather delve into history books,” he said, highlighting the dangers of misinformation and urging the public to rely on factual historical accounts. Thackeray noted that while Aurangzeb had tried to erase the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, it was ironic that the Mughal emperor died and was buried in Maharashtra.
Calls for Communal Harmony Over Aurangzeb Tomb
He also pointed out that Afzal Khan, the Bijapur general killed by Shivaji Maharaj, was buried near Pratapgadh Fort—a decision that, he implied, may have had Shivaji’s approval. This historical reference came as a counter to the current demands by certain right-wing groups for the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb, a campaign that has led to unrest and violence in some regions.
Thackeray cautioned against allowing these provocations to distract from real, pressing issues in society. Taking a dig at how many derive their understanding of history from popular media, he asked, “Did you learn about Sambhaji Maharaj’s sacrifice because of Vicky Kaushal and about Aurangzeb because of Akshaye Khanna?”—a reference to the film ‘Chhaava’ based on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
Keep Religion Private, Focus on Progress
He further emphasized the importance of keeping religion a private affair, suggesting that true progress lies in moving beyond divisive politics and learning from global examples like Turkey’s secular transformation under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. “Religion should remain within the four walls of your home,” he remarked, underscoring the need for a modern, forward-thinking society.
Raj Thackeray’s address served as a strong reminder to reject communal narratives fueled by misinformation and to focus instead on unity, credible knowledge, and the genuine issues that affect people today.
