With the rumors of a potential reunion of the estranged Thackeray cousins after twenty years, Maharashtra is facing a historic moment in its political history. Amid worries about purported dangers to Marathi culture and identity, former chief minister Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, who left the Shiv Sena in 2005 to form his own party, have both alluded to a reunion.
A patch-up could result in the Thackerays running alongside the BJP in the next Mumbai local body elections, despite the fact both the Congress and the BJP have stated that they would welcome such a reunion. The NCP and Congress are hopeful because they are aware of this.
The Reunion Buzz
The Thackeray cousins have conveyed a strong message to Maharashtra’s voters – that the state’s interests and Marathi culture are above political rivalries. Speaking at separate events, they hinted it was beneficial for the state if they came together again.
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray said the differences between them are “minor” and impacting the Marathi people.
“The disputes and fights between Uddhav and me are minor — Maharashtra is much bigger than all that. These differences are proving costly for Maharashtra’s existence and the Marathi people. Coming together is not difficult. It’s a matter of will. It’s not just about my desire or selfishness,” Raj Thackeray said, adding that he would not let his ego come in between if the state wants them to come together.
His reunion with Uddhav Thackeray would mean a departure from his unconditional support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 2024 national elections.
Uddhav Thackeray, who heads the Shiv Sena (UBT) after the 2022 split, had a condition for reuniting with his cousin.
“I’m ready to put aside petty disputes, but there is a condition. We cannot keep switching sides where we are supporting them one day, opposing them the next, and then compromising again. Anyone who acts against Maharashtra’s interests — I will not welcome them, invite them home, or sit with them. Let this be clear first,” he said.
From the Uddhav Thackeray camp, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut hinted at both leaders being ready to set aside their issues and reconcile. However, he reiterated the condition that his party’s chief had laid down: Raj Thackeray should not give space to Maharashtra and Shiv Sena (UBT)’s “enemies”.
A reunion of the Thackeray cousins would reshape Maharashtra’s politics, which has seen alliances shift over the past few years. Elections to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, pending for three years, could be held this October, and if the cousins reunite, their fight against the BJP-led NDA will test their joint working skills and pave the way for future tie-ups.
