Shivaji Rao Phadke, commonly known as Bal Thackeray, was an influential Indian politician and the founder of the Shiv Sena party in 1966. Born on January 23, 1926, in Pune, Maharashtra, he became a prominent figure in Maharashtra's political landscape, advocating for the rights of the Marathi-speaking population. His charismatic leadership and strong oratory skills helped him gain a significant following. Thackeray was also a cartoonist and used his artistic talents to express his political views. He was known for his staunch Hindutva ideology and played a crucial role in shaping regional politics in Maharashtra. His legacy continues to influence the state's political dynamics even after his death on November 17, 2012.