Rashmi Thackeray, formerly known as Rashmi Patankar, is a prominent Indian journalist, the editor-in-chief of Saamana and Marmik, two influential Marathi newspapers. She is also the wife of Uddhav Thackeray, the former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, and the mother of Aaditya and Tejas Thackeray. While she may not always be in the public eye, Rashmi plays a crucial role both in the media and in her family’s political journey.
Early Life and Family
Rashmi Patankar hails from a middle-class family in Dombivli, a suburb in Mumbai. Her father, Madhav Patankar, was a businessman. Growing up in a Maharashtrian household, Rashmi was keen on becoming financially independent from an early age. She attended V.G. Vaze College in Mulund, where she completed her Bachelor of Commerce degree.
In 1987, she joined the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) as a contract employee. During her time at LIC, Rashmi met Jaywanti Thackeray, the sister of Raj Thackeray and the niece of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. Through Jaywanti, Rashmi met Uddhav Thackeray, the youngest son of Bal Thackeray, and the two soon became close.
Rashmi’s Career and Education
Rashmi’s journey into the professional world began with her role at LIC in 1987. Her ambition and determination to secure a stable job were evident from a humble background. After completing her studies at V.G. Vaze College, she worked at LIC to support herself and to become financially independent.
However, her marriage to Uddhav Thackeray in 1989 propelled her into the public sphere. Though Uddhav was already involved in his family’s political endeavors, Rashmi remained relatively low-profile at the time. Over the years, she became an integral part of the Thackeray family, supporting her husband’s political career and contributing to the success of their media ventures, Saamana and Marmik.
In 2020, Rashmi Thackeray took over as the editor-in-chief of Saamana, following Uddhav Thackeray’s resignation from the position after assuming the role of Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Her appointment marked a significant moment for the Shiv Sena, as she became one of the most influential figures in the party, albeit unofficially. Uddhav has publicly acknowledged her importance, jokingly referring to her as the “second most important person” in the party after him.
The Love Story of Rashmi and Uddhav Thackeray
The love story between Rashmi Patankar and Uddhav Thackeray began unexpectedly. While working at LIC, Rashmi became friends with Jaywanti Thackeray, who introduced her to Uddhav. Uddhav, who was then running a small advertising agency and pursuing his passion for photography, found an immediate connection with Rashmi. Their friendship blossomed into love, and after dating for some time, the couple married on December 13, 1989.
Rashmi’s support played a key role in Uddhav’s political career. According to various reports, Rashmi has been a strong motivator for Uddhav, helping him realize his dream of becoming Maharashtra’s Chief Minister. Her political acumen and steadfast support have been instrumental in Uddhav’s rise in the political world.
Rashmi Thackeray’s Influence in Politics
While Rashmi has always remained out of the limelight, she is considered a quiet yet significant influence in Maharashtra’s political landscape. Reports suggest that she played a crucial role in Uddhav’s decision to ally with the UPA (United Progressive Alliance) to secure his position as Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Her strategic thinking and guidance have made her a trusted advisor to her husband.
On March 1, 2020, Rashmi Thackeray formally took over as the editor of Saamana, the mouthpiece of the Shiv Sena. Although this appointment was seen as a formality after Uddhav stepped down from the role to avoid any conflict of interest, it underscored Rashmi’s growing influence within the party. As per the India Today report, Uddhav himself acknowledged her role, stating that the newspaper would maintain its editorial independence, while humorously clarifying that Rashmi wouldn’t be criticizing his government through the newspaper.
The Thackeray Family: Sons Aaditya and Tejas
Rashmi and Uddhav Thackeray have two sons: Aaditya and Tejas Thackeray. Both sons are prominent figures in Maharashtra’s political and social circles.
Aaditya Thackeray
Aaditya Uddhav Thackeray, born on June 13, 1990, is an Indian politician and a rising star in the Shiv Sena party. He has held various important positions, including the Cabinet Minister for Tourism and Environment in the Maharashtra government. Aaditya made history by becoming the first member of the Thackeray family to contest and win elections, representing the Worli constituency in Mumbai.
Aaditya is known for his progressive views and has been a vocal advocate for environmental conservation, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation. He has also written a book of poetry and engaged in social activism. His efforts to ban single-use plastics in Maharashtra earned him widespread recognition.
Tejas Thackeray
Tejas Thackeray, the younger son of Uddhav and Rashmi, prefers to keep a lower profile compared to his elder brother. A wildlife conservationist and researcher, Tejas has a deep interest in nature and animal protection. Despite his family’s political background, Tejas remains relatively out of the media spotlight, focusing instead on his passion for wildlife conservation.
