Shiv Sena supremo Balasaheb Thackeray passed away today at 3.30 pm at his residence Matroshree in Mumbai. He was 86. The moment demise was confirmed by the doctors, a large number of Shiv Sena activists thronged Matroshree. It may be noted that Bal Thackeray had been in and out of hospital since  July 2012 due to breathlessness. The doctors said that it was due to multiple organ failure, Thackeray passed away. Last rites of Bal Thackeray would be conducted on Sunday at 3 pm.

In the wake of Bal Thackeray's demise, Maharashtra Government beefed up tight security in Mumbai to ensure that no clashes take place. Bal Thackeray was born on 23 January in Pune to a social activist. He initially joined as a cartoonist and later started his own press to make his point. Eventually, he moved into politics and had set up Shiv Sena party in 1989 in order to safeguard the interests of maharashtrians.

Click here for a detailed profile of Bal Thackeray.

(AW Phani)