Thackeray Cousins' Reunion: What Uddhav-Raj’s surprise show of unity means for Maharashtra politics

With their joint appearance, the Thackeray cousins seem poised to revive “Brand Thackeray” and reclaim their hold over Marathi politics

In a significant development in Maharashtra's political landscape, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray appeared together publicly for the first time in nearly 20 years. The event, held at Mumbai's Worli Dome on Sunday, was billed as a celebration of Marathi identity and unity.

Thousands of party supporters gathered at the venue, witnessing what was seen as a symbolic reunion that could alter the dynamics of Marathi politics. Though no official alliance was declared, leaders from both camps hinted at growing closeness.

The cousins had parted ways politically in 2006, when Raj Thackeray launched the MNS after being sidelined in the succession battle within Shiv Sena. While both continued to advocate for Marathi pride, they followed different political trajectories.

Sunday's event stirred emotional reactions among senior leaders from both factions. Veteran Shiv Sena figures like Anil Parab, Bala Nandgaonkar, Kishori Pednekar and Sudhir Salvi hailed the moment as a potential return to the unity envisioned by the late Balasaheb Thackeray. “Water cannot be divided by striking it, and neither can blood,” Pednekar reportedly said, as cited by News18 report.

The reunion comes at a time when the Shiv Sena (UBT) is under pressure from Eknath Shinde’s breakaway faction, which currently holds sway in the state government with BJP's backing.

Political observers, as cited by News18 report, suggest that a united Thackeray front could consolidate the fragmented Marathi vote, especially in urban strongholds such as Mumbai, Thane, and Nashik.

While the rally was largely symbolic, the optics of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray standing side by side have sparked speculation about a broader political strategy. According to the analysts cited by News18, discussions of a formal alliance could materialise ahead of the next state elections.

The Worli event also featured speeches emphasising cultural pride and linguistic identity, themes that have traditionally resonated with both leaders’ support bases. The crowd’s response suggested a renewed enthusiasm for a united Marathi front.

Even as Chief Minister Shinde aims to position himself as the true heir to Balasaheb Thackeray’s vision, the renewed camaraderie between Uddhav and Raj may complicate that narrative, the News18 report added citing political observers. The emotional resonance of the family reunion, paired with growing public discontent over recent policy decisions, could shift public perception in the Thackerays' favour, the report added.