The political landscape of Maharashtra witnessed a significant event as Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray, estranged cousins and leaders of their respective political parties, shared a stage after nearly two decades. This reunion occurred at a public rally in Mumbai, organized to celebrate the Maharashtra government's decision to roll back the implementation of Hindi as a compulsory third language in primary schools.
The rally, held on July 5, 2025, at the NSCI Dome in Worli, Mumbai, was jointly organized by the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). The invitation for the event, titled "Marathicha Awaaz" (Voice of Maharashtra), featured the names of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray but omitted any party symbols. This united front was seen as a major development in Maharashtra's political scenario, especially with upcoming local body polls on the horizon.
Raj Thackeray's statement, "Something Balasaheb couldn't achieve, But Fadnavis...", during the rally, alludes to the political dynamics and potential shifts in alliances within the state. While the exact context of the statement requires further clarification, it underscores the significance of this unexpected reunion and its possible implications for the future of Maharashtra politics.
The decision to come together was spurred by the controversy surrounding the Maharashtra government's three-language policy, which initially mandated Hindi as a compulsory subject in primary schools. Both Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS, known for championing the cause of Marathi identity and language, vehemently opposed this policy. Following widespread protests and criticism, the government eventually withdrew the government resolutions (GRs) related to the policy's implementation. The Thackeray cousins hailed this as a victory for the Marathi people and decided to commemorate it with a joint rally.
This unexpected alliance has ignited speculation about a potential political realignment in Maharashtra. Both Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS have faced electoral setbacks in recent years. The Shiv Sena (UBT) saw a significant split in its ranks, leading to a diminished presence in the state assembly. The MNS, after a promising start in 2009, has struggled to maintain its electoral relevance.
Against this backdrop, the reunion of the Thackeray cousins has fueled rumors of a possible alliance ahead of crucial civic elections, including the Mumbai civic corporation. Some reports suggest that Uddhav Thackeray is open to forming an alliance with Raj Thackeray and even ceding some seats to MNS in the upcoming polls. However, formal discussions and decisions regarding any such alliance are yet to be announced.
The coming together of the Thackeray cousins is not without its critics. Narayan Rane, a BJP MP and former Chief Minister, accused Uddhav Thackeray of pushing Raj Thackeray out of the undivided Shiv Sena and now seeking reconciliation for political gain. Shobhaa De, a writer and columnist, criticized the "language Dadagiri" being carried out in Mumbai in the name of Marathi pride, suggesting that both parties are weaponizing language for electoral survival.
Despite the criticisms and skepticism, the reunion of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray marks a notable moment in Maharashtra's political history. Whether this alliance will translate into a long-term political partnership remains to be seen. However, the event has undoubtedly injected fresh momentum into the state's political landscape and raised intriguing possibilities for the future.
