PERSONAL INFORMATION
Real name: Sarla Vaidya [1] Google books-Bal Thackeray & The Rise of the Shiv Sena Note: She changed her from Sarla Vaidya to Meena Thackeray after her marriage to Bal Thackeray on 13 June 1948.
Other name(s): Maa-saheb [2] Google books-Bal Thackeray & The Rise of the Shiv Sena , Maa [3] India Today
Profession: Homemaker
Date of Birth: 6 January 1932 (Wednesday)
Age (at the time of death): 63 Years
Zodiac sign: Capricorn
Nationality: Indian
Hometown: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Marriage Date: 13 June 1948
Age: 63 Years
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FAMILY & RELATIONSHIPS
Marital Status (at the time of death): Married
Husband/Spouse: Bal Thackeray (Cartoonist, Politician)
Children: Son(s) – Bindumadhav Thackeray (filmmaker), Jaidev Thackeray, Uddhav Thackeray (politician)
Siblings: Sister – Kunda Thackeray (aka Madhuwanti) Note: Kunda Thackeray is married to Bal Thackeray’s brother Shrikant Thackeray.
Husband: Bal Thackeray
OTHER INFORMATION
Date of Death: 6 September 1995
Place of Death: Karjat, Maharashtra
Death Cause: Heart Attack [4] India TV
Religious Views: In an interview, Bal Thackeray talked about his wife, Meena, and said, “My wife was so pious, so devoted, so religious. But it came to nothing. After she went to a Ganesh Chaturthi function in Bombay, we forgot the emergency bottle of her medicine and went to Karjat. Here was a test for gods and goddesses. It was the duty of God to remind her of the emergency bottle. If not, then you and your faith are led astray.”
Address: Matoshree, Bandra-east, Mumbai
Legacy: • Maasaheb Meenatai Thackeray Smarak outside Shivaji Park, Mumbai • Minatai Thakare Stadium in Nashik, Maharashtra • Maasaheb Meenatai Thackeray Hospital, Nerul, Navi Mumbai • Meenatai Thackeray Blood Bank – Siddharth Hospital, Siddharth Nagar, Prabhodhan Kridabhawan Marg, Goregaon (W) Mumbai • Meenatai Balasaheb Thackeray Banquet Hall, Mira-Bhayandar, Maharashtra • Maasaheb Minatai Thakre Maternity Home, Sion Chunabhatti, Mumbai
INTERESTING BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Meenatai Thackeray, affectionately known as Meena Thackeray, was an integral figure in the life of Bal Thackeray, the prominent Indian politician who established the Shiv Sena, a right-wing political party advocating for Marathi and Hindu nationalism, primarily in Maharashtra. While she never delved into active politics herself, her influence was felt deeply behind the scenes as she supported her husband in shaping the party and its vision. Meena played a pivotal role in the establishment of the women’s wing of Shiv Sena, known as the Mahila Aghadi, which was founded in 1985. This initiative reflected her commitment to empowering women within a political landscape that was often dominated by male voices.
In the early 1990s, Balasaheb and Meenatai Thackeray embarked on a compassionate mission that showcased their deep-seated values of social responsibility. Inspired by the poignant narrative of a black-and-white film detailing the life of Gadge Maharaj, a revered Indian mendicant-saint and social reformer, they laid the foundation for the Ramadham Old Age Home near Khopoli, Maharashtra, in 1990. Their vision for the old age home was rooted in the desire to create a haven for the elderly, reflecting their belief in providing care and shelter for those in need. This initiative resonated with the couple’s understanding of community service and compassion, highlighting Meena’s unwavering support for charitable endeavors.
Although her contributions were often overshadowed by her husband’s public persona, Meenatai Thackeray’s legacy is one of quiet strength and dedication. Her work with the Shiv Sena, especially in the context of women’s empowerment, laid the groundwork for future generations of women in politics. The significance of her role extends beyond the political realm, as she was a steadfast partner in Bal Thackeray’s journey, providing emotional and strategic support during critical moments in the party’s evolution.
In contemporary times, Meena Thackeray’s life and influence have been recognized in popular culture, most notably through the portrayal of her character by actress Amrita Rao in the 2019 Bollywood biographical film ‘Thackeray.’ This cinematic representation serves to enhance the public’s understanding of her multifaceted identity—not just as the wife of a powerful politician but as a woman who played a crucial role in shaping the socio-political landscape of Maharashtra. Her story remains a testament to the unsung contributions of women in political narratives, ensuring that her legacy, though understated, continues to inspire and resonate with many.
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Note: All biographical information compiled from publicly available sources.