Raj Thackeray Talks Travel, Family, And His Culinary Passions On This Sunday Brunch With Kamiya Jani

Raj Thackeray, the political leader and founder of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), joined Kamiya Jani, the Editor-in-Chief of Curly Tales, for an entertaining episode of Sunday Brunch. Kamiya Jani visited Raj Thackeray’s home at Shivaji Park, Mumbai, to enjoy a traditional Maharashtrian breakfast and engaging conversations with him and his son, Amit Thackeray. From hilarious travel misadventures to his relationship with Bala Saheb Thackeray, this conversation was as hearty as the brunch they shared. Read on to learn all about it!

Raj Thackeray Gets Candid During Sunday Brunch

Raj Thackeray warmly welcomed Kamiya into his home, a residence he moved into 4 years ago. He shared his love for Shivaji Park, describing it as the heart of Mumbai. Reflecting on his childhood, he reminisced about playing cricket and tennis at the park and his love for the area’s iconic vadapav and other street foods.

Raj Thackeray also shared fond memories of his childhood with his uncle, the late Balasaheb Thackeray, whom he was closer to than his own father. He remembered going to political rallies with Balasaheb and how his uncle had influenced his creative flair for daring sketches. Beyond politics, Raj was influenced by Balasaheb because he respected his bold outlook on life.

Raj recalled his childhood memories with Balasaheb, recalling how his uncle would personally drive him to Montessori school. He shared that despite Balasaheb’s towering presence in politics, he never pressured Raj to join the political arena. 

When asked about his food preferences, Raj expressed a love for Maharashtrian dishes like Sabudana Khichdi, Kanda Poha, and Batata Poha. Interestingly, he confessed to starting meals with dessert, a habit he’s maintained since childhood. He also shared memories of visiting iconic food spots across Maharashtra, such as the popular Kirti College Vada Pav stall and local eateries in Sindhudurg.

Also Read: Anupam Kher Says, ‘Failure Teaches You Much More Than Success’

He Revealed All About His Love For Travelling

Raj Thackeray revealed his love for travelling both within India and abroad. He shared how travelling abroad provides him with a sense of peace, away from the constant public attention he experiences in India. Despite his recognisable persona, he humorously explained that a change in attire and a beard often help him go unnoticed overseas.

One of the funniest stories he told about his travels was from Mount Titlis in Switzerland. He recalled spotting vada pav, a typical Maharashtrian snack, being sold at a café. He was having coffee when an Indian tourist recognised him and excitedly called out his name. It created a scene and people gathered to verify his identity. His family had already moved on, and he was surrounded by fans yelling his name.

Offering insights into his family life, Raj Thackeray revealed that his sister and wife meticulously plan family vacations. He also prefers to leave such details to them. Speaking of his love for dogs, he joked that his home would likely have 30–40 dogs by now if his mother had not been afraid of them.

The episode also included a fun rapid-fire segment where Thackeray revealed that he often misplaces his phone and finding it becomes a challenge. He also revealed that he doesn’t eat desserts secretly and more interesting tidbits.

This episode of Sunday Brunch offered a rare, unguarded side of Raj Thackeray. Check out the full video to see it for yourself!

Cover Image Courtesy: Internal