Mumbai, India – In a significant political development, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Raj Thackeray, brothers estranged for two decades, shared a public platform today.
The reunion took place during a celebratory event marking the successful thwarting of an alleged attempt to impose Hindi in primary schools in Maharashtra.
The coming together of the Thackeray brothers, who are cousins, has fueled speculation about potential shifts in Maharashtra’s political landscape, especially with upcoming elections for the Mumbai Municipal Corporation and other local bodies.
Speaking at the event, Uddhav Thackeray emphasized the purpose of their reunion. “We have come together to stand united… to protect Marathi,” he stated, underlining the shared commitment to their linguistic identity.
Raj Thackeray, speaking after sharing the stage with Uddhav, made a notable comment directed at Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, stating, “What Balasaheb couldn’t do, Fadnavis did.” This cryptic remark likely refers to the government’s decision to withdraw the three-language formula, which Raj Thackeray hailed as a victory for Marathi identity.
In a scathing attack on the central government, Raj Thackeray questioned the sudden emphasis on Hindi. “Why is Hindi being given so much importance all of a sudden? This is not love for the language, but an agenda. There is an attempt to impose Hindi on us. We will not tolerate this,” he declared. He further highlighted the hypocrisy, stating, “When our children study in English medium, questions are raised about our Marathi identity. But when BJP leaders studied in missionary schools, no one even raised a finger against their Hindutva. This hypocrisy will not be allowed.”
Raj Thackeray is the son of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray’s brother. His departure from the Shiv Sena in 2005 came after Bal Thackeray decided to name Uddhav as his successor.
Shiv Sena workers are now hopeful that this newfound unity between the Thackeray brothers will persist in the upcoming elections for the Mumbai Municipal Corporation and other local self-government bodies, potentially creating a formidable front.
