In Maharashtra, the political landscape is electrified as Shiv Sena (UBT), led by Uddhav Thackeray, gears up for the monumental 2024 Maharashtra Assembly Elections. Kedar Dighe, a name that resonates deeply within the party’s roots, is their candidate. As the nephew of the legendary Shiv Sena leader, Anand Dighe, Kedar is stepping forward to challenge the incumbent Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, seeking re-election. It’s a battle for loyalty, legacy, and the true essence of Shiv Sena’s spirit.
In the pivotal Thane assembly constituency of Kopri-Panchpakhadi, where Shinde will contest, Shiv Sena (UBT) has put forth 43-year-old Kedar, who carries family ties and a political mentorship with Shinde. For many supporters, his candidacy isn’t merely about placing a new name on the ballot—it’s about reigniting the values that once made Shiv Sena a formidable force.
To Shiv Sena (UBT), Kedar embodies a return to its foundational principles—Marathi pride, grassroots activism, and an unyielding dedication to social justice. His presence reminds us of Shiv Sena’s original spirit, and his campaign is grounded in the hope of rekindling that long-standing flame.
At a charged political rally, Kedar stirred the crowd by invoking the powerful memory of his uncle, saying, “My uncle stood for the people, for every Marathi voice yearning to be heard. I carry his spirit and dedication and am here to ensure that legacy endures.”
This message of unwavering loyalty strikes at the heart of Maharashtra’s Marathi-speaking community, for whom Shiv Sena represents far more than a political affiliation—it’s an indelible part of their identity.
As Kedar prepares to take on Shinde, this is seen as an electoral face-off and a battle for Shiv Sena’s true soul. For Maharashtra, this political contest embodies decades of history, deep ideological rifts, and an emotional pull between loyalty and legacy. With both factions rallying their supporters, echoes of the past grow louder, setting the stage for what many believe will be one of Maharashtra’s most defining elections.
Kedar’s entry into the political ring is a profound call to the legacy of his uncle, Anand Dighe—a revered leader whose fierce commitment to the Marathi cause made him an icon within Shiv Sena. Anand was more than a politician; he symbolized loyalty, pride, and relentless service to Maharashtra. His untimely death in 2001 left a gap that has never truly healed. Kedar’s candidacy now rekindles cherished memories, evoking a sense of continuity and belonging among Shiv Sena’s oldest supporters.
The name ‘Dighe’ still holds a place of honor in Maharashtra, resonating deeply with those who remember the late Anand Dighe’s relentless dedication to the people. Kedar, closely tied to this legacy, is viewed by many as the spark needed to revive the unity, pride, and enthusiasm that Shiv Sena once embodied. With Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT) endorsing him, Kedar represents a bridge between the party’s storied history and a renewed vision for the future—one that appeals to both seasoned loyalists and a younger generation yearning for authentic leadership in turbulent times.
At a recent rally, Kedar’s words struck a powerful chord. “I carry my uncle’s spirit, his ideals, and his love for Maharashtra in my heart,” he declared, voice thick with emotion. “This battle isn’t just about winning an election; it’s about upholding the values he cherished. I’m not here for power; I’m here for the people, for every Marathi manoos who feels marginalized and unheard.”
For many, the Dighe name conjures memories of an admired, almost legendary figure. Anand Dighe’s commitment to Shiv Sena, charisma, and loyalty to Balasaheb Thackeray made him a household name, a symbol of fierce devotion to the Marathi cause, and a leader who stood shoulder to shoulder with the people. His influence extended beyond policy; he embodied pride and connection.
Shiv Sena (UBT) announced on October 23 a list of 65 candidates for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections on November 20, with votes counted on November 23. Among these is Kedar, a formidable challenger to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in Kopri-Panchpakhadi—a move many see as a strategic masterstroke. Shinde, a former protégé of Anand Dighe, has often claimed to be the “true adherent” of Dighe’s legacy, adding complexity to this high-stakes battle.
This contest in Kopri-Panchpakhadi has emerged as one of the most anticipated showdowns of the 2024 election. The late Dighe, instrumental in growing the Shiv Sena’s presence in Thane, continues to hold sway over the district. Shinde has frequently credited Dighe as a defining influence on his life and political journey. Now, with Kedar presenting himself as the torchbearer of his uncle’s legacy, an emotional appeal resonates strongly with supporters of the late leader.
As campaigns heat up, both factions draw deeply from their roots, alliances, and legacies. For Shiv Sena (UBT), fielding Kedar is symbolic and strategic, placing a fresh yet historically grounded contender at the forefront. With Maharashtra’s political landscape in flux and alliances shifting, this election promises to reshape the state’s future, possibly echoing transformations not seen since the 1970s.
Meanwhile, Shinde’s Shiv Sena intensifies its stance against Shiv Sena (UBT), accusing them of abandoning Balasaheb Thackeray’s vision of Hindutva for political gain. Shiv Sena (UBT) aims to expose the Shinde faction’s “betrayal” by aligning with the BJP. Both factions are set to clash across 47 of Maharashtra’s 288 constituencies, marking one of the most significant electoral contests the state has witnessed in recent history.
Shinde has long credited Anand Dighe as his political mentor, financing two Marathi films, Dharmaveer and Dharmaveer-2, to honor the legendary Shiv Sena leader and showcase his close bond with him.
DHARMAVEER: A HAGIOGRAPHY OF ANAND DIGHE
The release of Dharmaveer: Mukkam Post Thane felt like a powerful reminder to Maharashtra of Anand Dighe’s enduring legacy. Produced by Mangesh Desai under Zee Studios, the film presents a hagiography of the late Shiv Sena stalwart. It portrays Dighe as a leader who ruled Thane with an iron fist, fueled by Hindutva principles and a fierce devotion to Shiv Sena’s cause. For many, the film subtly positioned Shinde—Dighe’s protégé and now Maharashtra’s Chief Minister—as the rightful inheritor of that legacy.
Released on May 13, 2022, Dharmaveer arrived just in time to fuel Shinde’s rising star. Within weeks of its debut, Shinde would go on to break away from Shiv Sena in a move that ultimately led him to the Chief Minister’s seat, supported by the BJP. For Shinde’s followers, the timing felt almost prophetic, transforming Dharmaveer into a tribute not just to Dighe’s life but to Shinde’s new path as his protégé.
In Dharmaveer, Shinde’s character is amplified, portrayed as Dighe’s most loyal foot soldier, a figure of unwavering loyalty and fierce determination. Shinde’s name is prominently thanked in the opening credits, a nod to his central role. The film unapologetically celebrates Dighe’s controversial approach—instant justice, Hindutva-driven authority, and his magnetic appeal that captivated Thane, known as the “uncrowned king.” The narrative swings between past and present, weaving together scenes of thousands gathering to honor Dighe’s memory with flashbacks to his rise as a towering, almost mythical figure in Thane.
Anand Dighe, who passed away in 2001 at just 50, built his base during a time of political turbulence, blending religion, politics, and unorthodox methods to secure the loyalty of the masses. Though he never contested an election, Dighe’s influence was legendary, and his supporters bestowed upon him the title of “Dharmaveer” as he dedicated himself to the cause of Marathi pride.
Besides the more critical Thackeray (2019), Dharmaveer is an unapologetic celebration of Dighe’s larger-than-life persona. It offers an alternate history of recent political events, suggesting a narrative of continuity rather than a political takeover. For the filmmakers, and perhaps for Shinde’s supporters, it’s clear: Shinde, like Dighe, embodies the core values of Shiv Sena.
As the credits roll, a poignant message leaves viewers with the sense that Dighe’s story isn’t over. Dharmaveer is, without a doubt, an homage to a departed legend—but it’s also a powerful tribute to a living one. This suggests that Shinde’s ascent is not just political but almost fated, a passing of the torch from one Dharmaveer to another.
Shinde’s connection to Dighe has been a powerful element of his political narrative, reinforcing his roots in Thane. Meanwhile, Kedar Dighe, Anand’s nephew, has quietly built his career within Shiv Sena’s youth wing, Yuva Sena, led by Aaditya Thackeray. Yet, unlike Shinde, Kedar’s name remained out of the spotlight for years.
Sources reveal that Kedar twice sought a ticket to contest the Assembly elections but was sidelined, allegedly due to Shinde’s influence in the district. When Shinde’s dramatic rebellion split the party in 2022, Kedar stayed loyal to Uddhav’s faction, which appointed him Thane district head. Thane—Shiv Sena’s second bastion after Mumbai and the first city where the party triumphed in civic elections—has become a battleground for loyalty, splitting the ranks of its staunch Shiv Sena workers.
For Uddhav’s Shiv Sena (UBT), Kedar’s candidacy is more than a bid for power; it’s a strategic and symbolic stand to counter Shinde, who has leaned heavily on Anand Dighe’s legacy to gather support. After Shinde’s defection, Uddhav suffered a blow in Thane as most senior leaders and elected representatives, except for MP Rajan Vichare and his wife, shifted their allegiance. With Kedar stepping forward, Shiv Sena (UBT) aims to reclaim its heartland and confront Shinde’s influence head-on in the name of loyalty and legacy.
SHINDE VS. THACKERAY: THE RIVALRY RESHAPING MAHARASHTRA
The fierce rivalry between Shinde and Thackeray is more than a political divide; it’s a clash of ideologies and ambitions that has shaken the very foundation of the Shiv Sena. Once Thackeray’s close ally and a trusted leader within the party, Shinde’s 2022 revolt marked a seismic shift. Leading a dramatic exodus of Shiv Sena MLAs and backed by the BJP, Shinde formed his faction, ultimately rising as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister. His split from Thackeray was not just a change in leadership but a deep fracture in the party’s core values and identity.
To Shinde’s supporters, he represents a return to the Shiv Sena’s roots, championing Hindutva and aligning with the BJP to strengthen Maharashtra’s role within the national framework. In his eyes, the BJP alliance restores what he sees as the Sena’s original values—values he felt were compromised in Thackeray’s coalition with the Congress and NCP. Shinde has passionately committed to Maharashtra’s growth, promising new jobs, infrastructure advancements, and economic stability.
In stark opposition, Thackeray and his faction, Shiv Sena (UBT), view Shinde’s departure as a profound betrayal. For Thackeray, Shiv Sena was always about Marathi pride combined with a secular, pluralistic vision for Maharashtra—a delicate blend of cultural pride and political resilience. To Thackeray, partnering with Congress and NCP was a deliberate move to temper communal tensions and preserve Maharashtra’s unique identity. Shiv Sena (UBT) has placed its hopes in Kedar, a potent symbol of resistance and continuity, to stand against Shinde’s BJP-aligned vision.
As both factions rally their supporters, the stakes have never been higher. For Maharashtra, this rivalry transcends politics; it’s a battle for the very soul of Shiv Sena, and the outcome could define the state’s future.
EMOTIONAL FIRE DRIVING KEDAR’S CAMPAIGN
For Shiv Sena (UBT) and its followers, Kedar’s campaign is more than a bid for political power—it’s a stand for the heart and soul of Shiv Sena’s original ideals. Dighe’s run is fueled by nostalgia and a fierce commitment to the core values of Marathi pride, social justice, and loyalty to Maharashtra’s roots. In Kedar, supporters see both the legacy of his uncle, Anand Dighe and the strength to push back against Shinde’s powerful coalition. He is the fresh face of a deeply rooted tradition, bridging memories with present resolve.
Rally after rally, Kedar speaks with a fiery passion that unites supporters across generations. He draws on his uncle’s legacy, addressing issues close to people’s hearts: uplifting farmers, preserving Marathi culture, promoting fair development, and ensuring education for all. His campaign is a clarion call to protect Maharashtra’s heritage, emphasizing that his family’s loyalty to Shiv Sena’s core values will never falter.
“The people of Maharashtra deserve leadership that respects their heritage and champions their future,” Kedar declared recently. “This election isn’t just about me or Shinde; it’s about our values, Marathi Asmita (pride), and dignity. Together, we will build a Maharashtra that honors its past while paving the way for our children.”
WILL THE THACKERAY- DIGHE CARD BLOCK SHINDE’S RISE?
Thane is bracing for a high-stakes election battle as rival Shiv Sena factions clash in a contest that could redefine Maharashtra’s political future. The Mahayuti alliance, led by Chief Minister Shinde, will face off against the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), bringing the divide within Shiv Sena to the forefront. In Thane, a long-time Sena stronghold, this fight is pivotal for Maharashtra’s future, with the outcome expected to shape the state’s direction for the next five years.
These assembly seats, symbolic of the Thackeray legacy, are primed for a nail-biting contest where Sena (UBT) counts on its traditional support base. At the same time, CM Shinde’s faction leans on the Mahayuti’s development record. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) adds a twist, making this a thrilling three-way race that could determine the fate of the Thackerays and the future of Maharashtra itself.
ENDURING LEGACY OF ANAND DIGHE
Anand Dighe was more than a leader; he was a towering figure in Maharashtra’s political and social landscape, revered for his loyalty to Balasaheb Thackeray and his commitment to the Marathi cause. Dighe’s influence was profound, making him almost a mythical presence in Maharashtra—a respected and feared leader. Known for his ability to unify the masses, his principles have long been a guiding blueprint for countless Shiv Sainiks.
Today, his legacy lives on through his nephew, Kedar Dighe, who steps forward as a bridge between the past and present, carrying forward the values his uncle upheld fiercely. In a heartfelt appeal to voters, Kedar has pledged to honor Anand Dighe’s legacy of justice, Marathi pride, and genuine progress for the people of Maharashtra.
For Shiv Sena (UBT), Kedar is more than a candidate; he is a beacon of continuity, a symbol connecting the Shiv Sena’s foundational principles to a new generation. His entry has ignited hope among long-standing Sainiks. Many see him as a natural extension of Anand Dighe’s vision—a leader who can reinvigorate the movement and return it to its roots.
SHINDE AND THACKERAY: ALLIES TURNED RIVALS IN A DIVIDED SHIV SENA
The rift within Shiv Sena has become one of Maharashtra’s most defining political dramas. When Thackeray, Balasaheb’s son, took up the mantle, he navigated the party through challenging times, ultimately aligning with the Congress and NCP to assume the Chief Minister’s role. This coalition, however, disillusioned Eknath Shinde, a senior leader and trusted lieutenant, who felt the Sena was drifting from its core values.
Shinde led a dramatic rebellion in 2022, breaking away with a significant faction of MLAs in a bold and historic move. Supported by the BJP, he established his own Shiv Sena faction and assumed state control as Chief Minister. This division fractured Shiv Sena’s loyalists, forcing them to choose between allegiance to the Thackeray legacy and Shinde’s call to return to the party’s Hindutva roots.
Today, this divide defines Maharashtra’s political landscape. Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT) sees Kedar Dighe as a response to Shinde’s leadership—an answer grounded in traditional Sena values, Marathi pride, and a commitment to the working class.
“The people of Maharashtra deserve leadership that respects their heritage and champions their future. This election isn’t just about me or Shinde; it’s about Marathi Asmita (pride), and dignity”
Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Kedar Dighe
THE RACE FOR REDEMPTION: SHIV SENA (UBT) GEARING UP FOR A COMEBACK
Ahead of the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly election, Shiv Sena (UBT) is rallying its loyal base, preparing for a comeback by rekindling memories of the Sena’s legacy and framing Shinde’s faction as a ‘betrayal’ of those ideals.
With his youth and family legacy, Kedar has emerged as a compelling candidate for UBT. His campaign is marked by large gatherings and stirring speeches where he invokes his uncle’s memory and promises a vision for a modern Maharashtra. As a “voice of the people,” Kedar pledges to continue Anand Dighe’s legacy while tackling contemporary issues that resonate with the working class and rural communities, from job creation and infrastructure to cultural preservation. His campaign insists that Maharashtra deserves leadership rooted in its heritage—a clear contrast to Shinde’s BJP-backed governance.
Meanwhile, Shinde capitalizes on his experience as Chief Minister, emphasizing development projects and the stability he claims his administration has achieved. With robust financial backing from the BJP, Shinde’s campaign is equipped with significant resources. However, Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT) is banking on a powerful emotional appeal, drawing from memories of Balasaheb’s leadership and positioning Kedar as a torchbearer of that tradition.
The stage is set for a momentous election, where legacy and loyalty clash with ambition and progress, and Maharashtra’s future will hang in the balance.
VOTER SENTIMENT: LEGACY OR STABILITY?
Maharashtra’s voters stand at a crossroads, weighing loyalty to a cherished legacy against a promise of political stability. Sentiment is divided across bustling urban hubs like Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. For some, Kedar Dighe’s rise signals a return to the Shiv Sena’s foundational values, while others feel that Shinde’s leadership has ushered in the stability Maharashtra needs for progress.
In rural regions where Anand Dighe’s legacy endures, support for Kedar runs deep. His campaign touches on issues close to these communities’ hearts—from water scarcity and agricultural relief to healthcare and job creation. His team has crafted an image of him as a ‘people’s leader,’ someone who revives the grassroots spirit of Shiv Sena.
Yet, Shinde’s camp remains steadfast. His supporters argue that his BJP alliance has infused Maharashtra with resources essential for development and investment. To them, Shinde embodies a practical, progressive vision that can lift Maharashtra to new heights.
This divide has become a central theme in the election—more than a race for power, it’s a battle for the Shiv Sena’s identity. The question hangs heavily: Will the Sena’s future lie in Hindutva-driven governance under the BJP or in a return to Marathi pride under Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT)?
BJP AND CONGRESS: KEY PLAYERS IN THE OUTCOME
The BJP’s influence in the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly Election is undeniable. By backing Shinde’s faction, they bring extensive resources, strategic support, and appeal to urban and Hindu nationalist voters.
Meanwhile, Congress and the NCP indirectly support Kedar’s campaign alongside Shiv Sena (UBT). While not part of his rallies, their networks help expand his reach. Endorsing Kedar as a candidate who upholds Maharashtra’s secular identity, Congress hopes to rally voters to prioritize unity and diversity over polarization.
KEDAR’S CAMPAIGN: NEW FACE, TIMELESS MESSAGE
For Kedar, this election is a personal mission to uphold his family’s legacy. His campaign is laser-focused on grassroots issues, reaching out to the working class, rural voters, and those sidelined by Maharashtra’s urban surge. Championing economic empowerment, healthcare, education, and infrastructure, Kedar seeks to connect deeply with those who once revered Anand Dighe and see Kedar as a natural successor.
With enthusiasm, Kedar addressed a crowd in Thane: “I am not here for power. I am here because the people of Maharashtra deserve a leader who understands their struggles and stands with them.” These words resonate with many who see him as the bridge between Shiv Sena’s history and its potential future.
Kedar’s use of social media and digital platforms has furthered his appeal among younger voters. His messaging blends Marathi pride and modernization, positioning his campaign as a battle for Maharashtra’s soul amidst political division.
Still, the road is not easy. Kedar faces a seasoned opponent with substantial resources and strong BJP backing. Shinde’s organizational strength and record as Chief Minister make him a formidable competitor, especially with BJP support appealing to nationalist voters.
For now, Kedar’s challenge remains to expand his appeal beyond his uncle’s legacy. He must prove to voters that he is not just a torchbearer of the past but a leader for the future, articulating a vision that resonates with Maharashtra’s evolving landscape.
THE ROAD AHEAD FOR KEDAR DIGHE: CAN HE RISE TO THE CHALLENGE?
Kedar faces a formidable journey. As he steps into his uncle’s legacy, he must forge an identity that resonates with a new generation. His campaign focuses on people-first policies, from affordable housing and farmer support to educational reform. He envisions a Maharashtra that reflects Shiv Sena’s values while meeting modern needs. For Kedar, his legacy is both a strength and a duty—a reminder to stay rooted yet to be a voice for the youth and marginalized.
His emotionally charged speeches have struck a chord with those who feel Shiv Sena has lost its way. Kedar’s image as a ‘people’s leader’ echoes the charisma and warmth his uncle was famed for, a trait that may prove vital in winning over those alienated by today’s political climate.
