Uddhav Thackeray opts out of Ayodhya Ram temple ceremony despite speedpost invitation

• Uddhav Thackeray, despite receiving a speedpost invitation, opts not to attend the Ram Temple consecration in Ayodhya on January 22
• Alternative plans include visiting Veer Savarkar's birthplace in Nashik and participating in religious activities, aligning with the party's tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray's role in the Ram Mandir agitation
• Political campaign launch in Nashik on January 23 coincides with Balasaheb Thackeray's birth anniversary, with Uddhav Thackeray visiting the Kala Ram temple

Uddhav Thackeray, Chief of Shiv Sena (UBT), has declined the invitation to attend the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22, despite receiving the invite via speedpost. Party MP Sanjay Raut confirmed Thackeray's absence, citing his commitment to visit Nashik on the same day, where he will pay homage to Veer Savarkar's birthplace and participate in religious activities. The surprise delivery method of the invitation adds an intriguing element to the unfolding events.

While Thackeray will be absent from the Ayodhya ceremony, he has scheduled alternative plans in Nashik. The Chief will visit Veer Savarkar's birthplace in Bhagur, conduct aarti at the Shree Kalaram temple, and participate in religious activities at Goda ghat. These actions align with the party's intention to honor the late Balasaheb Thackeray's contributions to the Ram Mandir agitation. Sanjay Raut emphasized the historical significance of Nashik, where important resolutions are expected to be passed during the party's convention on January 23, marking Balasaheb Thackeray's birth anniversary.

Notably, on the political front, Shiv Sena (UBT) plans to launch its campaign in Nashik on January 23, coinciding with Balasaheb Thackeray's birth anniversary. Uddhav Thackeray will visit the Kala Ram temple in Panchavati, symbolizing Lord Ram's residence during his exile. In a strategic move, Thackeray invited President Droupadi Murmu to offer prayers at Nashik's Kalaram Temple on January 22, subtly differentiating her from the Ayodhya event attendees and taking a veiled dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Meanwhile, Ayodhya is gearing up for the grand event on January 22, with the city adorned in festive lights, celebrities arriving, and extensive security measures in place for the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony to be presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.