Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray strongly criticized efforts to stir communal tensions over Aurangzeb's tomb, emphasizing that history should not be interpreted through the lens of caste and religion.

During his annual Gudhi Padwa rally at Shivaji Park, Thackeray urged people to seek accurate historical knowledge rather than rely on WhatsApp forwards. He pointed out that while the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb aimed to eradicate the ideology of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, he ultimately met his end in Maharashtra.

He further noted that Afzal Khan, a general from the Bijapur Sultanate, was laid to rest near Pratapgad Fort, an act that would have required Shivaji Maharaj’s approval. His remarks came amid demands from right-wing groups to dismantle Aurangzeb’s tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, an issue that recently sparked violent protests in Nagpur.

"Rather than erasing history, we should highlight how these invaders tried to crush the Marathas but were defeated instead. Stop relying on social media for historical facts and turn to authentic history books," he advised.

Thackeray warned against being misled by political distractions and emphasized the distinct socio-political scenarios before and after Shivaji Maharaj’s rule.

"We are losing focus on real, pressing issues. If Hindus feel awakened only after watching movies, then this newfound consciousness is of no use. Did you learn about Sambhaji Maharaj’s sacrifice just because of Vicky Kaushal, or about Aurangzeb due to Akshaye Khanna?" he questioned, referring to the recent historical film ‘Chhaava,’ based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who was executed by Aurangzeb.

Clarifying Aurangzeb’s origins, Thackeray stated that he was born in Dahod, Gujarat. He accused certain groups of distorting history for political gain rather than genuine historical interest.

Discussing governance, Thackeray asserted that religious ideologies alone cannot drive a nation’s progress, citing Turkey as an example of a country that modernized itself. "Religion should remain a personal matter. Many Hindus identify themselves as such only during communal conflicts; otherwise, they remain divided by caste," he remarked.

He also targeted the BJP-led Maharashtra government, claiming that the popular 'Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin' scheme would eventually be scrapped. "I warned you before, but you chose to trust them over me," he said, referring to opposition criticism that the scheme's financial aid had not been increased as promised before the elections.

Reaffirming the MNS stance on language, Thackeray insisted that Marathi should be compulsory for official communications. "If you live here and refuse to speak Marathi, you will face consequences," he cautioned.

Thackeray also condemned environmental degradation under the guise of religious practices. Displaying a video, he claimed that bodies were being cremated and disposed of in the Ganga River. "What kind of faith justifies destroying nature? Despite spending Rs 33,000 crore on cleaning the Ganga, pollution persists. Isn't it time for self-reform?" he asked.

Highlighting the poor condition of Maharashtra’s rivers, he revealed that out of the 311 most polluted river stretches in India, 55 are in Maharashtra. "Mumbai once had five rivers; four are now gone, and the only remaining one, Mithi River, is on the brink of destruction," he warned, attributing the crisis to unchecked sewage, encroachments, and chemical waste disposal.

Concluding his address, Thackeray called for urgent corrective measures to protect Maharashtra’s cultural and environmental heritage.