Uddhav Thackeray Says Gen Z Was Called 'Cockroaches', Cites Shivaji Comparison

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday defended the country's younger generation, saying today's Gen Z is being labelled "cockroaches" in much the same way that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was once referred to as a "chuha" (rat) by the Mughals. Speaking at the launch of a book in Mumbai, Thackeray drew parallels between the struggles of historical figures and the recent student-led protests that culminated in the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. His remarks came amid ongoing political debate over the student movement and the language used against its participants.

Referring to the recent protests led by the satirical Cockroach Janta Party, Thackeray praised the determination of the young demonstrators and compared their resolve to that of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He noted that Shivaji Maharaj was only 17 years old when he captured Torna Fort, pointing out that he belonged to what is now described as the Gen Z age group. Thackeray also mentioned that the Cockroach Janta Party, which adopted a name based on an alleged insult, was founded by 30-year-old Abhijeet Dipke.

Addressing the audience, Thackeray said those who were mocked as "cockroaches" belonged to the same generation that has produced young achievers throughout history. He cited Sant Dnyaneshwar, who wrote the Dnyaneshwari at a young age despite facing significant opposition, to argue that youth have historically played a transformative role in society. According to Thackeray, both Shivaji Maharaj and Sant Dnyaneshwar overcame criticism and adversity to leave a lasting legacy.

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The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also referred to his father, Balasaheb Thackeray, claiming that if he were alive today, the present administration would have labelled him "anti-Hindu." He said Balasaheb had consistently emphasised that "humanity is religion" and argued that religion should unite people rather than become a political tool. Thackeray added that it took courage to publish a book on the Thackeray family and used the occasion to reiterate his party's ideological position.

Taking aim at his political opponents, Thackeray questioned the moral authority of those who, according to him, invoke religion for political gain. He asked whether those in power felt no shame in "looting the temple of that very Rama" in whose name they had secured public support. His remarks are expected to add to the ongoing political exchanges between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and opposition parties ahead of future electoral contests, as debates over governance, religion and youth participation continue to dominate the political discourse.

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