Shiv Sena has almost become synonymous with Marathi identity, Bala Saheb Thackeray's political style and Hindutva. But with the state elections approaching, the party is seen to be undergoing a paradigm shift.
The party, led by Uddhav Thackeray who advanced the style of Balasaheb Thackeray, is now seen adapting to the changing tunes of Aaditya. Here are three examples of how Shiv Sena is indicating a makeover:
Attempt to Win North-Indian Support, Ft Gamcha
Shiv Sena, which was traditionally seen as anti-North Indians, now seems to be more open to them. The country's economic capital, Mumbai, is heavily inhabited by people from the North Indian states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. It is not surprising that political parties, therefore, make an attempt to win their votes. Recently at a public event, Aditya Thackeray, was seed donning a North-Indian style 'Gamcha' tied around his forehead. Before this, no other Shiv Sena leader, has ever been seen wearing a Gamcha.
Aaditya Ready to Break Family Tradition of Never Fighting Elections
Balasaheb Thackeray, who founded Shiv Sena on 19 June 1996, strengthened the party across the state but never fought the elections himself. After his death, Uddhav Thackeray took over the reins of the party. Although there were reports of him contesting the elections in his initial days, he never really ended up fighting on a poll ticket like his predecessor. But now, rumours are rife that Aaditya Thackeray might get down to the contest in the upcoming Vidhan Sabha elections. Sources also hint at junior Thackeray gracing the chief minister's seat if he wins. However, neither Aaditya nor his party members have confirmed the news of his fighting elections so far.
Focus on Social Media in Aaditya’s Campaign
From pitching for plastic ban to discussing various issues impacting the upcoming elections, Aaditya Thackeray has been busy campaigning on social media. And not just in English, he has also been tweeting in Hindi and Marathi languages to reach out to more people. Priyanka Chaturvedi, once Congress' social media warrior quit the party before Lok Sabha elections and joined the Shiv Sena. She has now been actively campaigning for the saffron party and publicising its promises on social media.
Meanwhile, Aaditya's father Uddhav Thackeray, who belonged to an older generation of Shiv Sena leaders, does not have any presence on Twitter.
(The story was first published on Hindi Quint.)
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