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Raj and Uddhav Thackeray: Is a political reunion for Maharashtra on the horizon?

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21st April, 2025 20:26 IST

The political climate in Maharashtra is abuzz once again with talk of a potential thaw in relations between estranged cousins Raj Thackeray, chief of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), and Uddhav Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT).

The fresh speculation stems from Raj’s recent appearance on filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar’s podcast, where he signalled a readiness to bury the hatchet for the sake of Maharashtra’s larger interests.

A call for unity

During the widely viewed podcast, Raj Thackeray struck a conciliatory tone, downplaying personal differences with Uddhav and underlining the need for unity among Marathi political forces.

“When important issues are at stake, our disputes are insignificant,” he remarked. “If the people of Maharashtra want us to come together, that voice must be heard. I hold no ego on such matters.”

Raj also proposed the idea of forming a broader front of Marathi-centric parties to safeguard the state’s cultural and political identity, asserting that his motivations are rooted in the public good, not personal gain.

Uddhav’s conditional response

Responding to Raj’s overture, Uddhav Thackeray welcomed the spirit of reconciliation but laid down clear conditions. He warned against any association with those who work against Maharashtra’s interests and took a veiled jab at Raj’s past political alliances — particularly his support for the BJP in recent elections.

“Unity is welcome, but not at the cost of compromising Maharashtra’s self-respect,” Uddhav stated. “Political consistency matters, especially when trust is at stake.”

Diverging reactions within parties

The possibilities have triggered mixed reactions across both camps. MNS leader Sandeep Deshpande voiced reservations, citing past betrayals and expressing doubt over Uddhav’s sincerity.

On the other hand, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut struck a more optimistic note, encouraging both parties to move beyond past grudges. “If the cause is Maharashtra, we must look forward,” he said.

Reflecting this sentiment, the Shiv Sena (UBT)’s mouthpiece Saamana published an editorial urging the cousins to come together for the state's welfare. Praising Raj for consistently raising issues related to Marathi identity, the editorial criticised the BJP for attempting to dilute Marathi dominance in Mumbai and warned that failure to unite would be a historic mistake.

BJP and Shinde watch cautiously

In the backdrop, the BJP and the -led Shiv Sena are closely monitoring developments. Shinde who is already being elbowed by ally BJP had a meeting with Raj Thackeray last week raising eyebrows. This was seen by many as an effort to retain MNS within the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance.

Still, the Shiv Sena (UBT) remains wary of Raj’s political flip-flops. Uddhav’s camp has reiterated that any alliance must be built on clarity and a shared long-term vision — not opportunism.

Opposition parties react

Congress leaders have largely brushed off the idea of a Thackeray reunion, labeling it a political maneuver for survival. In contrast, the NCP has welcomed the possibility of Marathi unity, citing its potential to bring more stability to Maharashtra's political landscape.

What lies ahead

As Raj Thackeray remains overseas, he has instructed MNS leaders to refrain from commenting publicly until his return later this month. While no formal meetings between the two Thackerays have been confirmed, the exchange of views has undoubtedly set the stage for further developments.

Whether this moment marks the beginning of a political reconciliation — or merely another chapter in the ongoing Thackeray family saga — will become clearer in the weeks ahead. For now, Maharashtra watches and waits.

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