Man who took Yuva Sena to victory in Mumbai University

Varun Sardesai interacts with media after win. PICS/ASHISH RAJE

With Yuva Sena candidates winning in the recent Mumbai University Senate elections, Varun Sardesai, 31, a confidante of Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray's son Aaditya, has announced his arrival on the city's political scene. A rising star in Yuva Sena, Sardesai played a pivotal role in securing a significant win for Sena (UBT) in the Mumbai University Registered Graduates Senate elections. Cousin to Aaditya, He has quickly risen through the ranks of Sena, gaining a reputation as a firebrand leader with a sharp political mind.

Addressing the media after the win, Sardesai said, "This is our first win in the university senate after the Shiv Sena split, and despite several attempts by the ruling party to sabotage the process" A civil engineering graduate from a university in the US, Sardesai is the son of Aaditya's maternal aunt. Going forward, his relation to the Thackerays won't be his only identity. It's his strategic acumen and aggressive leadership that has propelled him to prominence within the Yuva Sena. Over the past few years, Sardesai has spearheaded several high-profile protests, solidifying his position as a powerful voice within the party.

Alpesh Bhoir, winning candidate of Yuva Sena

One of Sardesai's most notable moments came in April 2023, when he led a massive protest against Independent lawmakers MP Navneet Rana and MLA Ravi Rana. The Ranas had publicly challenged the Thackerays by vowing to chant the Hanuman Chalisa outside their residence, Matoshree. Sardesai quickly mobilised thousands of Sainiks to gather outside the Ranas' house in Khar, staging a 48-hour protest that forced the duo to back down. This high-stakes showdown showcased his ability to rally the party's base in moments of crisis.

He has also led protests against key political opponents, including a noisy demonstration outside Union minister Narayan Rane's bungalow in response to his anti-Uddhav Thackeray remarks. His willingness to confront senior politicians has earned him respect and a reputation for fearlessness.

Behind the scenes, Sardesai has been instrumental in shaping Yuva Sena's election strategies for years. Although officially appointed as the youth wing's secretary in 2018, insiders reveal that his influence dates back much earlier. He has played a key role in crafting election strategies, managing data collection, and overseeing party surveys - skills that have helped him drive victories across multiple elections.

However, his journey has not been without hurdles. Following the Sena split, Sardesai faced criticism from several within the Yuva Sena, including a close aide of Thackeray who defected to the Shinde faction, accusing him of excessive interference in the organisation's daily affairs.

"Varun Sardesai's contribution has been 100 per cent, all under the guidance of our Aaditya-saheb. From nominations to registrations to follow-ups, and promoting the work we've done over the years, Varun has been a strong pillar for us throughout. Despite the delays and multiple election cancellations, he has stood by us unwaveringly. Not only did he support us as candidates, but he also worked tirelessly, running around to ensure this victory was possible," said Pradeep Sawant, one of the Yuva Sena's winning candidates.

"Despite his close ties to Matoshree, Varun is a grassroots leader who works closely with the cadre, which speaks volumes about his leadership potential. He has a long political journey ahead," Sawant added. With his recent success in the Mumbai University Senate elections and his increasing role within the party, Sardesai is emerging as a key player in the future of Shiv Sena. As he continues to rise, his blend of grassroots activism, strategic thinking, and bold leadership will likely make him one of the most influential young politicians in Maharashtra's political landscape. Currently, there is a buzz in political circles that Sardesai is eyeing a ticket from Shiv Sena (UBT) and MVA to contest from the Bandra East constituency for upcoming state assembly elections.