Mumbai: In the early 90s, Raj Thackeray emerged as the new youth leader of Shiv Sena and since then he has played a crucial role in scripting the rise of Shiv Sena across Maharashtra.
Raj Thackeray, modelled on his uncle Bal Thackeray, is a gutsy, flamboyant, street hero with the trademark hairstyle and glasses.
Bal Thackeray has gone on record saying that he is a fan of Hitler and Raj, has also said that when it comes to organisational skills, there are a few who can rival the Nazi dictator's abilities.
Raj started building his base in the Shiv Sena from 1990 onwards. A cartoonist, like his uncle, Raj soon endeared himself to the Sena members but was sidelined when Uddhav Thackeray was appointed as Executive President of the party in 2002.
This was the beginning of the rift. Raj had to be content being the President of the Sena's student wing.
In 1996, he was linked with the Ramesh Kini murder case. Former Maharashtra deputy chief minister Chhagan Bhujbal had accused him of playing a major role in the murder but the courts dismissed all charges against Raj.
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In 2003, Raj launched his Parprantiya Hatao campaign to stop the influx of outsiders into Mumbai in response to Uddhav's Mee Mumbaikar (I Mumbaiite) movement, to give Sena a fresh look.
In the run up to the 2004 assembly elections, Raj's choice of candidates was also overlooked.
When senior Sena leader Narayan Rane?with whom Raj shared his concerns?quit Shiv Sena, Raj found himself further ignored.
Matters became worse when in August, Vinayak Raut a Sena MLA criticised Raj by calling him a coward in party mouthpiece Saamna, when Raj cut short his tour of the Konkan where Narayan Rane was one of the contestants.
An angry Raj, retaliated by demanding the removal of incompetent leaders, clearly pointing at Uddhav. Bal Thackeray intervened to make peace but it did not last long.
Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, both claimants to the Sena throne are a study in contrasts.
45 year old Uddhav Thackeray, the shy introspective wildlife photographer is low on charisma and high on blood. He's the son, while Raj is only the nephew.
The intra-party rivalry has seen a near vertical split in the party with hardliners moving towards Raj and moderates moving towards Udhav.
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