Mumbai: In a rare and politically significant moment, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray shared the stage for the first time in two decades, setting aside past differences to rally together for the cause of Marathi language and identity. The joint appearance took place in Mumbai’s Worli on Friday, in what was originally planned as a protest but turned into a celebratory rally after the Maharashtra government withdrew its controversial order mandating Hindi as a third language in state schools.
The cousins, estranged since their political split in the early 2000s, stood united over the recent language policy controversy, marking a symbolic return to shared ideological ground that once defined the Shiv Sena under Bal Thackeray’s leadership.
In a powerful address, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray invoked their grandfather’s legacy and took a dig at the BJP-led state government. “What Balasaheb couldn’t do, Devendra Fadnavis did,” Raj quipped, referring to the unexpected role the Deputy Chief Minister played in reuniting the cousins through the state’s contentious language circular.
Taking a swipe at the state government, he added: “Finally, they witnessed the power of Maharashtra and Marathi people and that’s what forced them to withdraw the GRs on the three-language formula.”
Raj further warned about the creeping imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra, hinting at possible long-term designs to dilute the state’s identity. “Do not impose Hindi on us. This is only the beginning. One day they might say Mumbai is not a part of Maharashtra,” he cautioned.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray echoed the sentiments with a combative tone. “Yes, we are goons; if we have to be goons to get justice, we will do goondagiri,” he said, reiterating the Sena’s traditional aggressive posture on issues of Marathi pride and rights.
Taking aim at the BJP’s legislative might, Uddhav declared, “You have power in the legislature. We have power on the street.” Both leaders celebrated the withdrawal of the controversial government resolution as a “victory of Marathi manoos” and pledged to continue defending the language and cultural interests of the state. “We have come together to stay together,” Uddhav said, suggesting that the reunion was not a one-time gesture but potentially a new chapter in Maharashtra politics.
The event witnessed an enthusiastic crowd of supporters waving saffron flags and chanting slogans, reminiscent of the old Sena rallies that once defined Mumbai’s political pulse.
While the BJP maintained that the original intent of the circular was misunderstood, the backlash it sparked appears to have realigned old political loyalties. With civic polls, including the BMC elections, looming large, the reunion of the Thackeray cousins could significantly alter the political dynamics in Maharashtra.
