"It is sad that by my regular statements against everyone who utters the absolutely abhorrent phrase 'Mumbai is for all', I have managed to involuntarily unite all of Indians against regional chauvinism, while my true intentions were to awaken the people of Maharashtra against their exploitation by Hindi-speaking people. I reject the award considering it as an insult to me and to my dear Marathi Manoos." said Thackeray to reporters.
"I don't even have an iota for attraction for the Bharat Ratna award. I want to assure you that I will never accept any award that places me along with the likes of bhaiyas like Rajiv Gandhi, Lal Bahadur Shastri and many others. It's an insult, an absolute disgrace to be put in the same list with them. I would prefer to die than accept an award that has been previously given to unworthy, undeserving north Indians.” said Bal Thackeray.
Thackarey also announced the inception of Marathi Manoos award, which will be given every year to the person who has beaten and sent back maximum number of bhaiyas from Maharashtra. "The award is for the services to my motherland.” he said. “We will be announcing the winner on 1st of May every year, to coincide with the Maharashtra Day celebrations. We will try to do as much as possible to cleanse our motherland of these foreigners.” said Balasaheb in a roaring voice.
(Contributed by Anshul, Onionuttapam News)
