09 March,2026 12:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Raj Thackeray noted that significant changes have taken place in the past two decades and a new generation of voters has emerged in the state. File Pic
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray announced a massive membership drive to mark 20 years of MNS and called on the Marathi youth to join his party.
In a post on X on Sunday, Raj Thackeray wrote, "On March 9, 2026, is the 20th anniversary of our party. This is the anniversary of a party and an ideology that has aggressively fought for the Marathi people and the Marathi language. On this occasion, party membership registration will begin from March 10, 2026. On March 9, I will go to Raigad and pay my respects to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and initiate the membership registration drive. This Raigad not only hosted the Maharaj's residence but is also the fort that witnessed the 'Shivrajyabhishek'. We are starting our membership registration at such a sacred place."
Raj Thackeray said the idea behind the party was to strengthen the identity of Marathi culture and ensure that the voice of Marathi citizens is heard.
He stated that when the party was formed, issues related to Marathi language, culture and identity were not receiving enough attention.
According to him, through various protests, campaigns and elections over the past 20 years, the party has consistently raised these concerns and worked to protect the interests of Marathi-speaking people.
Raj Thackeray said that today, whenever injustice is faced by Marathi citizens, many people ask where MNS is, which shows the impact the party has created.
In an another post on X, Raj Thackeray noted that significant changes have taken place in the past two decades and a new generation of voters has emerged in the state.
He said many young people across Maharashtra have the ambition and determination to succeed in the modern world, especially at a time when the world is moving towards a fourth industrial revolution.
Thackeray emphasised that Maharashtra should lead this transformation while ensuring that development and progress take place in the Marathi language as well.
Thackeray announced that the party will begin a new membership registration drive from March 10, 2026.
He invited young men and women across Maharashtra to join the party and contribute to building a stronger future for the state.
He said that the party welcomes individuals regardless of their political ideology, caste or religion, as long as they share a passion for Maharashtra and its progress.
Thackeray urged supporters to take advantage of the membership opportunity and participate actively in the party's activities.
He added that those who join the organisation will not only become party members but also work as dedicated supporters committed to the development of Maharashtra.
