Maharashtra’s political atmosphere is charged with hope and anticipation, following the widespread attention to Raj Thackeray’s podcast. All this began after the Shiv Sena (UBT) amplified the buzz by sharing a video on X featuring Uddhav Thackeray. In the podcast Raj Thackeray can be heard expressing his readiness to resolve past disagreements for the sake of Maharashtra.
The video showcases a handshake between the cousins at their family residence, Matoshree in Bandra, Mumbai. The moment has effectively captured the prevailing sentiment within both the Sena (UBT) and MNS. The whole political arena of Maharashtra is under a mix of hopeful expectation and cautious skepticism.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reacts
Under the Hopeful and happy category comes Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Fadnavis voiced his approval of a potential reunion between Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray.
When asked about his thoughts on the Thackeray brother’s reunion he said, “If the two come together, we will be happy about it, because if people settle their differences, it is a good thing. What else can I say about it?…”.
Raj Thackeray’s Call for Marathi Unity
According to reports, in a candid interview with actor Mahesh Manjrekar, Raj Thackeray addressed the possibility of aligning with his cousin. “The disputes and disagreements between us are minor, compared to greater causes. Maharashtra is far bigger than our personal issues. These matters are trivial in the fight for the existence of the Marathi identity. Coming together or working together isn’t a difficult thing—it’s only a matter of will. And it’s not just about me. I believe all Marathi people across political parties should unite and form a single front,” Raj Thackeray was quoted as saying by Loksatta.
Uddhav Thackeray’s Response to the Overture
Uddhav Thackeray reciprocated the sentiment while addressing the party workers on Saturday, stating, “I too am ready to set aside minor disputes for the larger cause of the Marathi language and Maharashtra. I appeal to all Marathi people to come together for the benefit of the state.” While he did not directly name Raj, his words were interpreted as a clear signal of reconciliation.
Thackeray Cousins Hint at Unity for Marathi Cause
However, this alleged reunion comes nearly two decades after their political split. Raj and Uddhav Thackeray have ignited speculation of a possible alliance. This comes ahead of upcoming local body elections in Maharashtra. The speculations over the reunion rose after the public statements from both leaders, Both suggest a willingness to bridge their long-standing political divide for the sake of Maharashtra.
Meanwhile, the context surrounding these signals reveals a crucial narrative. The recent controversy surrounding the Mahayuti government’s decision to mandate Hindi in primary schools. The controversy has ignited intense debate across the state over the importance of Marathi language. The Opposition parties in Maharashtra, including the MNS, have strongly opposed this move.
A Potential Political Earthquake in Maharashtra
The rivalry between the Thackeray cousins, standing for thirty long years if ended, will make a huge difference in Maharashtra politics. Both were the former prominent figures within the Shiv Sena. Their potential political reunification could trigger a significant political upheaval.
Maharashtra, a state already destabilized by the Shiv Sena and Nationalist Congress Party splits in 2022 and 2023. However this reunion can be marked as the most substantial discussion of reconciliation since in Maharashtra. Raj Thackeray left the Shiv Sena to establish the MNS in the year 2005-06.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut Reacts
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut says, “Raj Thackeray has said that if there are any grudges between the two brothers, then I will keep my ego aside and will remove it (grudges) for the best interests of Maharashtra. On which Uddhav Thackeray has said that we are brothers and there are no grudges between us and if there are any, I will remove them. But, you should not give place in your home to the enemy of Maharashtra and Shiv Sena (UBT)…If you agree on this, we will surely talk”
Maharashtra leaders’ reaction
Several leaders from both parties have admitted that such a reunion is easier said than done. Many believe that significant challenges lie ahead for any potential alliance, including doubts about the long-term stability of such a partnership. The problem, a deep-seated lack of trust between the two cousins. The trust factor continues to cast a long shadow over their potential reconciliation.
“Twice in the past we attempted to forge an alliance with Uddhav Thackeray’s party, once in 2014 and then in 2017. On both occasions, he showed a willingness at first but later just stopped responding,” said MNS leader Sandip Desphande. “Joining hands should also be unconditional. You can’t tell us who we can invite into our home and who we can’t.”
