Shiv Sena Chief Bal Thackeray and his estranged nephew Raj Thackeray once looked down on superstitious politicians. But age and ambition can bring about fundamental changes in men. As they chase the dream to control the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, the very same Balasaheb and Raj are relying on superstition.
For one, they have called in experts to ‘energise’ their homes. Sources say that Bal Thackeray has for some time believed in vaastu shastra and Feng Shui. There was a time when he suffered one setback after another. Raj set up his own political outfit, in the process weakening the Shiv Sena. Second, his health took a dip. So the family looked towards the alternative sciences for succour. Changes were made at Matoshree, Bal Thackeray’s residence. The silver, throne-like seat that he uses was shifted to face a certain direction. And both Matoshree and Raj’s Shivaji Park home feature Feng Shui talismans such as toads, wealth boats and laughing Buddhas.
Raj also believes in numerology. He launched his party, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, on 9 March 2006. Since then, he believes nine to be his lucky number. He makes most of his important moves on the ninth day of a month or on a date that adds up to nine. At times, he has fielded nine candidates in an election. He has also been advised to wear light blue or maroon clothes while making important announcements. In addition, he wears gemstones that supposedly enhance his luck.
Both the Thackerays have been consulting Bhayyu Maharaj, a spiritual guru to the state’s politicians. Raj has also been doing the rounds of temples across the state.
The poll results will show who positioned his toad better and whether nine is really better than, say, seven or eight.
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