National News: A significant and emotional moment emerged in Maharashtra’s political arena today as Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray and MNS chief Raj Thackeray appeared together on the same stage after 19 years. The occasion was the 'Victory Rally' at NSCI Dome in Worli, organized in defense of Marathi language and identity (Asmita) following the controversy over the state’s three-language policy.
What began as opposition to the Fadnavis-led government's directive mandating the teaching of Hindi, English, and Marathi in schools has now snowballed into a full-fledged cultural movement. In a surprising turn of events, the brothers—who had parted ways politically nearly two decades ago—came together, united by their shared sentiment for the Marathi language and ethos.
Marathi Pride Brings Back Brotherhood
The last time Raj and Uddhav were seen campaigning together was during the 2005 state elections. However, political and ideological rifts eventually prompted Raj Thackeray to part ways with Shiv Sena and establish the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) later that same year.
Today, those divisions seemed to dissolve, at least symbolically, as the two reunited for the cause of Marathi linguistic identity.
The event also had a family dimension—Raj was joined by his wife, Sharmila, and son, Amit Thackeray, while Uddhav arrived with his wife, Rashmi, and son, Aaditya Thackeray, making it a rare public appearance by both families together.
#WATCH | Mumbai: Brothers, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray share a hug as Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) are holding a joint rally as the Maharashtra government scrapped two GRs to introduce Hindi as the third language.
(Source: Shiv Sena-UBT) pic.twitter.com/nSRrZV2cHT
— ANI (@ANI) July 5, 2025"Balasaheb Couldn't Unite Us, But Fadnavis Did"
In a fiery speech, Raj Thackeray launched a scathing critique of the Maharashtra government. "Today, we are showing how Marathi people can stand united. Balasaheb Thackeray couldn't unite us—but Fadnavis did."
He went on to question the rationale behind imposing Hindi on schoolchildren, asserting that this movement is not political but purely cultural.
"Why is the issue of language being brought up again and again—especially in Maharashtra? You cannot impose a language on anyone." Raj warned against efforts to divide Maharashtra or detach Mumbai, stating firmly that such attempts will not succeed.
Government U-Turn Seen as Victory for Marathi Asmita
The rally follows the Fadnavis government’s controversial order to implement a three-language education policy in schools. After facing significant backlash from various cultural and political quarters, the government reversed its decision—a move the Thackeray brothers are presenting as a moral and cultural victory for Marathi speakers.
Celebration at NSCI Dome, Tribute at Shivaji Park Next
Thousands of enthusiastic supporters from both MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT) gathered at NSCI Dome with banners, placards, and slogans like "Ahamchi Oakh Marathi" (Our Identity is Marathi). The rally transformed into a vibrant cultural celebration, resonating with themes of pride, heritage, and defiance against linguistic marginalization.
Following the rally, the Thackeray brothers are expected to visit the memorial of Balasaheb Thackeray at Shivaji Park, where they will pay tribute to their political patriarch.
"Symbol of Unity": Sanjay Raut
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut called the moment a historic emotional reunion, saying, "This is more than politics—it is a celebration of Marathi pride. For the public, it's like a festival. Two towering leaders from the Thackeray family, once separated, have come together to guide the "Marathi Manus."
Beginning of a New Political Chapter?
With the Thackeray brothers reuniting on a cultural platform, political observers are speculating whether this signals the beginning of a broader realignment. Could this reunion pave the way for a strategic alliance between MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT) ahead of upcoming state or national elections?
Whether symbolic or strategic, today's event has stirred the political climate in Maharashtra—reminding all that Marathi identity remains a force to reckon with.
