Raj Thackeray: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena Leader Born June 14, 1968, Raj Thackeray is the founder and president of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), a regional political party in Maharashtra. His political career is intrinsically linked to his lineage; he is the nephew of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. Thackeray's political career is marked by a focus on Marathi pride and regional identity. He broke away from the Shiv Sena, forming the MNS in 2006, capitalizing on anxieties surrounding migration and economic competition. His early campaigns saw him target north Indian migrants, leading to significant controversies. While the MNS has not achieved widespread electoral success, it holds influence in local politics, especially in Mumbai. Key policy positions of the MNS revolve around protecting Marathi interests, promoting local businesses, and addressing urban infrastructure concerns. The party advocates for stringent regulation of migration and often employs aggressive rhetoric to further its objectives. While Thackeray's political contributions remain a subject of ongoing debate, his influence on Maharashtra's political landscape, particularly its regional dynamics, is undeniable. His populist approach and sharp rhetoric have shaped political discourse, even if the MNS's electoral impact has been limited. His defining characteristic is a strong emphasis on Marathi identity and assertive regionalism.