Thackeray referred to a significant moment in history—Babasaheb’s submission to the Dhar Commission on October 14, 1948—in which Ambedkar strongly advocated for the creation of a Marathi linguistic state. In his memorandum, Ambedkar argued that Mumbai was an inseparable part of Maharashtra, and this position was later elaborated in his essay "Maharashtra as a Linguistic Province."
“He directly challenged those who claimed Mumbai was never part of Maharashtra. Just as foreign invasions did not erase Hindu identity, the influx of non-Marathi speakers does not alter Mumbai’s original Marathi identity,” Thackeray emphasized.
In his detailed message, Raj Thackeray emphasized that Dr. Ambedkar not only supported but actively contributed to the movement for a united Maharashtra, with Mumbai as its capital.
“On this birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, we must remember how he stood firm in support of a united Maharashtra and countered every argument raised against Mumbai being a part of it,” Thackeray wrote.
He recounted how, during the early phase of the Samyukta Maharashtra movement, leaders like Comrade Dange, S.M. Joshi, and Acharya Atre had approached Dr. Ambedkar at his Delhi residence to seek his support. In response, Ambedkar had assured them that the Scheduled Castes Federation would back the movement “like the Rock of Gibraltar.”
Thackeray also highlighted that Rajgriha, Babasaheb’s residence in Mumbai, later became a hub for the movement’s meetings—often attended by Prabodhankar Thackeray, Raj Thackeray’s grandfather.
Reflecting on the present-day scenario, Thackeray expressed concern that Marathi language and people are being marginalized in Mumbai. He urged the Marathi community to reflect on the sacrifices of past leaders and not allow divisions to dilute the essence of the struggle for a united Maharashtra.
“If we forget these efforts and fail to unite as Marathi, then what was the point of that entire struggle?” he questioned.
Thackeray concluded his post with a passionate appeal:
“Let us unite as Marathi. Let the Marathi community pledge to break down the walls of caste and bring pride to this land. That would be the true tribute to Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar on his birth anniversary. Crores of salutes from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena to this great man!”
Raj Thackeray’s post, rich in historical context and assertive in tone, has sparked discussion across political circles and social media platforms. As Maharashtra continues to grapple with identity politics and language issues, his message has struck a chord with many and reignited conversations around regional pride and unity.