This comprehensive biography explores the life and career of Uddhav Thackeray, a prominent Indian politician and former Chief Minister of Maharashtra. From his early life and family background to his political journey and controversies, we delve into the details of his impactful career.

Wiki/Biography

Uddhav Thackeray was born on Wednesday, July 26, 1960 (age 64 as of 2024), in Mumbai, Maharashtra. His zodiac sign is Leo. He received his education at Balmohan Vidyamandir and later graduated from the Sir Jamsetjee Jeejebhoy School of Art, both in Mumbai. Initially, he pursued interests outside politics, working as a professional photographer and author. He even ventured into advertising, establishing an agency called “Chowrang,” which unfortunately did not succeed.

Physical Appearance

• Height (approx.): 5’9″
• Eye Colour: Dark Brown
• Hair Colour: Black

Family, Caste & Wife

Uddhav Thackeray hails from the Chandraseniya Kayastha Prabhu (CKP) caste. His father, Bal Thackeray, was a highly influential politician and founder of the Shiv Sena. His mother, Mina Thackeray, was a homemaker. He had two older brothers: Bindumadhav Thackeray (a businessman and filmmaker who passed away in a car accident on April 20, 1996), and Jaidev Thackeray. His cousin, Raj Thackeray, is a prominent politician and founder of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS).

He met his wife, Rashmi Thackeray (a businesswoman and member of the Shiv Sena’s women’s wing), during his college years. They married on December 13, 1988, and have two sons: Aditya Thackeray (a politician) and Tejas Thackeray (a wildlife researcher).

Career

Uddhav Thackeray’s entry into the Shiv Sena was initially low-key. He gradually rose through the ranks, holding various positions at both grassroots and state levels. A pivotal moment came in 2002 when Bal Thackeray entrusted him with overseeing the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. The Shiv Sena’s strong performance under his leadership propelled him into the spotlight.

In 2003, he became the Shiv Sena’s working president. Following Bal Thackeray’s death in 2013, he was elected as the Shiv Sena chief. The 2019 Maharashtra Assembly elections saw the Shiv Sena contesting in alliance with the BJP. However, post-election disagreements over seat and power-sharing, particularly regarding the Chief Minister’s post, led to a significant political shift.

This ultimately resulted in an alliance with Sharad Pawar and Sonia Gandhi, forming the “Maha Vikas Aghadi” government. Uddhav Thackeray was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on November 28, 2019. He resigned from this position on June 29, 2022, preceding a no-confidence vote.

Controversies

Throughout his career, Uddhav Thackeray has faced several controversies. These include a public threat made towards Sanjay Nirupam in 2011 and a public apology issued in 2016 concerning a controversial cartoon published in “Saamana.” More recently, a defamation case was filed against him and Sanjay Raut.

Address

Matoshree, Bandra, Mumbai

Facts/Trivia

• Initially hesitant about politics, he was encouraged by his wife.
• He enjoys wildlife photography and badminton.
• Like his father, his focus remained primarily on Maharashtra’s welfare.
• He published two photobooks: “Maharashtra Desh” (2010) and “Pahava Vitthal” (2011).
• He underwent an angioplasty in 2012.

Key Milestones in Uddhav Thackeray’s Career