Marathi: “Army of Shiva” (Show more) Shiv Sena, right-wing Hindu nationalist political party in India founded by Bal Thackeray on June 19, 1966. Its largest following is in Mumbai (Bombay) and other parts of Maharashtra state. Initially the ideology of Shiv Sena focused on Maharashtrian pride and favoring regional exclusivity and priority for Maharashtrians. The party was opposed to the perceived economic and cultural threat of migrants moving to Mumbai, particularly from southern India. This xenophobic and exclusivist ideology later shifted into a right-wing anti-Muslim and anti-communist strand that developed into a Hindu nationalist ideology. The members and followers, called Shiv Sainiks, are considered to be ...(100 of 849 words) Access the full article Help support true facts by becoming a member. Subscribe today!