Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has welcomed the signs of reconciliation between estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, whose two-decade-long political rivalry may be softening amid a heated controversy over the state’s language policy.
Reacting to questions about a potential rapprochement between the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), Fadnavis said, “If the two come together, we will be happy about it, because if people settle their differences, it is a good thing. What else can I say about it?”
The apparent thaw in relations comes as both leaders voice strong opposition to the state government’s decision to make Hindi a compulsory third language in schools from Classes 1 to 5. The policy has drawn criticism from several regional parties who fear it threatens the prominence of Marathi in its home state.
Interestingly, the language row has emerged as common ground for the Thackeray cousins—once inseparable political allies until their fallout in 2005, which led to the formation of the MNS and a bitter rivalry that shaped Maharashtra’s political landscape.
In a recent podcast with filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar, Raj Thackeray hinted at a willingness to set aside personal differences for a larger cause. “When major issues arise, the disputes and quarrels between us are small. For Maharashtra and the Marathi people, the conflicts between us are insignificant,” he said, indicating openness to collaboration.
Uddhav Thackeray, in turn, responded with cautious optimism, stating, “I am also ready to set aside the small quarrels and come together in the interest of the Marathi community.”
However, he issued a subtle warning directed at Raj’s ties with the BJP-led NDA. “First, decide that you won’t invite home and serve food to those who act against Maharashtra’s interests, and only then talk about the welfare of the state,”Uddhav said, criticizing MNS’s past alignment with the BJP during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
He also reminded Raj of the consequences of political inaction. “When I was saying during the Lok Sabha elections that industries were being moved from Maharashtra to Gujarat, if there had been opposition at that time, then the BJP government wouldn’t be at the Centre today,” he added.
Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut clarified that there is no formal alliance under discussion yet. “There is no alliance, only emotional talks,” he said, referring to the personal bond between the Thackerays.
“They are brothers. We’ve been together for years. That bond has never truly broken. Whether they come together politically will be their decision,” Raut added.
He stressed that Uddhav Thackeray has not placed any formal conditions for unity, saying, “Uddhav Ji has only voiced what the people of Maharashtra feel—that any party claiming to be a well-wisher of Maharashtra should not align with those who damaged Balasaheb Thackeray’s legacy and hurt Maharashtra’s pride.”
While no official alliance has been announced, the evolving political chemistry between Uddhav and Raj could mark a turning point in Maharashtra’s regional politics—united, perhaps, by a shared stand on preserving Marathi identity.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com