Remembering Bal Thackeray: 10 Rare Photos of Shiv Sena Supremo

The 8th death anniversary of one of Maharashtra’s most recognisable and influential figures, Bal Thackeray or Balasaheb Thackeray, is being observed on Tuesday. Balasaheb’s image with his rudrakhsh garland and thick-rimmed glasses is imprinted in public memory. The Shiv Sena chief lived a long, eventful, and influential life for over eight decades.

Born on June 19, 1926, to Keshav Sitaram Thackeray, the seeds for his future prominence resided in the home he was born at as his father was a journalist and cartoonist (the profession with which Balasaheb kicked-off his career). His father was also a social activist who advocated for Samyukta Maharashtra Movement. Here are his 10 rare photographs that might be of interest-

Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Bal Thackeray wave to the crowd during an election campaign rally in Mumbai (then Bombay).

Lal Krishna Advani, teh leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) sports a mammoth garland as Bal Thackeray and Manohar Joshi applaud during a rally held to kick off their election campaign in Mumbai (then Bombay).

Bal Thackeray with Atal Bihari Vajpayee during an election rally in the state capital.

The Shiv Sena lion sharing the stage with legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, singer Lata Mangeshkar and Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan.

Bal Thackeray sharing his bond with the now Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence.

Waving to all the media persons at Mayor's Bunglow in Mumbai. Also seen are Lal Krishna Advani and Pramod Mahajan.

Shiv Sena chief powdering Gulal on Manohar Joshi's forehead during Holi celebrations at Thackeray residence.

Gesturing the crowd after he cast his vote in the Indian Parliamentary elections at Mumbai (then Bobmay)

He addressing the media at his residence in Mumbai (then Bobmay)

A candid picture of Bal Thackeray with his grand son Aditya Thackeray from their family album. Aaditya it semes shares a very close bond with his grandfather and often seen feasting Shiv Sena fans with adorable throwback pictures on social media.