Mumbai: Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray
today described completion of 50 years of Maharashtra state as
a golden moment in the country`s history.
"This is not only a golden moment in the state`s
history but also a golden moment in the country`s history,"
Thackeray said after making a rare public appearance to
inaugurate the Shivaji Park mural and Samyukta Maharashtra
Museum in Dadar here this evening.
Thackeray asked youth to read Maharashtra`s history to
get acquainted with the glorious past of the state.
Maharashtra was formed on May 1, 1960.
In an apparent criticism of nephew Raj Thackeray, the
Sena chief said "one cannot understand history merely by
offering flowers at Hutatma Chowk (martyrs memorial)."
Asked to comment on the status of Marathi people 50
years ago and now, Thackeray said, "Marathi people should
introspect on the issue."
The Rs 6.35 crore redevelopment and beautification of
the 27.91-acre park includes landscaping, reconstruction of
the parapet and walkway, and installation of murals and
lampstones. The murals depict Shivaji`s coronation ceremony
and his ride on an elephant.
The Samyukta Maharashtra Museum showcases the history
of united Maharashtra`s struggle, and the death of 105
martyrs. It includes newspaper clippings, rare photographs,
maps and other memorabilia from the 1960s when Mumbai and the
state witnessed a bloody struggle.
PTI
