The first death anniversary of Bal Thackeray is all set to become a Shiv Sena show of strength.
According to party leaders, more than five lakh followers of the leader will arrive in the city to pay homage on Sunday. Top leaders of the Sena, along with those of allies, the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Republican Party of India, will be present at Shivaji Park in Dadar, where Bal Thackeray’s funeral was held.
A number of leaders from other parties, including the late leader’s estranged nephew and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray, are also expected to pay their homage.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has developed a memorial site at Shivaji Park, without using cement, as it falls within a Coastal Regulatory Zone and heritage area. The small, landscaped garden will be opened for the public on November 17.
“People will come on their own and no invitations have been sent to anyone. All those who loved Balasaheb will come on Sunday. We expect more than five lakh Shiv Sainiks to visit the memorial,” said Subhash Desai, MLA and senior Sena leader.
Blood donation camps and social initiatives have been arranged by the party across Maharashtra.
