Watch Thackeray

Thackeray is a biographical drama film based on the life of Balasaheb Thackeray, the founder of Shiv Sena, a right-wing political Indian party. The movie stars Nawazuddin Siddiqui in the lead role, portraying the character of Bal Thackeray. The film was released on January 25, 2019, and was directed by Abhijit Panse.

The story of Thackeray begins with the early life of Bal Thackeray, who was born in Pune in 1926. As a young boy, he joins a local gang and later becomes a cartoonist for the Free Press Journal. He then moves on to work as a political cartoonist for a couple of other newspapers. He was a supporter of the Indian National Congress Party until the Emergency in 1975. He resigns from his journalism job and forms his political party, Shiv Sena, to fight against the injustice done to the Marathi people in Mumbai.

The movie showcases Bal Thackeray's journey from a cartoonist to a political leader, and how he fought for the rights of Marathi people. The film does not paint Bal Thackeray as a saint, but rather displays him as a complex character with multiple shades. The film does not shy away from showing the violent nature of Shiv Sena, and how they used violence to gain power.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui's performance as Bal Thackeray is commendable, and he does complete justice to the character. The actor has been applauded for his excellent portrayal of the right-wing leader, displaying the character's mannerisms, style of speech, and his ideology. Amrita Rao plays the role of Meena Tai Thackeray, Bal Thackeray's wife. She supports her husband's vision and stands by him through the thick and thin.

Prakash Belawadi plays the role of the main antagonist, who is portrayed as a corrupt politician using religion for political gain. The film also showcases the rise of Shiv Sena and how its members saw Bal Thackeray as a messiah of the Marathi people. The film also highlights Bal Thackeray's friendship with Mohammad Ali Jinnah and how it affected his image in the later part of his life.

Thackeray is not just a biopic but also a commentary on the politics of today. The film has some intense and overwhelming dialogues that are apt and necessary. The cinematography of the film is also notable, with a rustic feel and old-world charm. The movie also features some catchy Marathi songs that stay with the audience even after the movie is over.

Overall, Thackeray is an engaging and impactful movie. It showcases the story of a man who had a vision, a man who fought against the system to serve his people, a man who changed the lives of Marathi people forever. The movie is not just for Balasaheb Thackeray fans but is also for those interested in politics and the rise of a political party. Thackeray is a must-watch movie for those who want to understand the politics of Maharashtra and the story behind the rise of Shiv Sena.