Pune: Raj Thackeray’s Call for Respectful Discourse in Marathi Industry; Says ‘I Will Bow Down to Sharad Pawar’

Varad Bhatkhande

Pimpri, 7th January 2024: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray’s recent statement regarding Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Sharad Pawar has sparked discussions across political circles. During an interview at the 100th Akhil Bharatiya Natya Sammelan in Pimpri Chinchwad, Thackeray expressed his willingness to show respect to Pawar.

Thackeray emphasized the need for mutual respect among artists in the Marathi film industry. He highlighted the importance of addressing each other with dignity, contrasting it with the current trend of using derogatory terms. Thackeray suggested that this lack of respect might be a reason why Marathi cinema lacks the presence of stars compared to other states.

Drawing a parallel, Thackeray pointed out the camaraderie among actors in other states, citing the example of Rajinikanth and Ilaiyaraaja, who share a respectful relationship despite other circumstances. Thackeray encouraged Marathi artists to adopt a similar approach, addressing each other with respect both in public and on movie sets.

In a notable statement, Thackeray declared, “In political terms, if Sharad Pawar comes here, I will bow down to him. That is our culture.”

Thackeray acknowledged Pawar as a senior leader in Maharashtra and expressed his commitment to discussing political matters on the platform, all while maintaining a respectful demeanour.

Thackeray’s comments reflected his belief in upholding cultural traditions and giving due respect to individuals, even in the political realm. The statement on bowing down to Pawar is likely to be observed closely by political observers, considering the historical rivalry between the Thackeray-led MNS and the NCP.