Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Apr 19: In a dramatic shift in tone, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray — two cousins estranged by political rivalry — hinted at a potential thaw in relations, suggesting they might join forces to protect Maharashtra’s cultural legacy and linguistic pride.
The unexpected overture came as both leaders, addressing separate audiences, slammed the state government’s move to introduce compulsory Hindi education from Classes 1 to 5 in Marathi and English-medium schools — a decision they believe undermines the prominence of Marathi at a time when it has been recognized as a classical language by the Centre.
MNS chief Raj Thackeray, speaking in an interview with actor Mahesh Manjrekar, struck a conciliatory note. “The issues between Uddhav and me are trivial when compared to the larger challenges facing Maharashtra. We can’t let personal differences cost the state its identity,” he said. He even proposed the idea of all Marathi-aligned political forces uniting under one banner to serve the state better.
Clarifying his past exit from Shiv Sena, Raj remarked that he had left on principle, not out of disloyalty. “I didn’t rebel like others. I walked away when I had support because I couldn’t work under anyone but Balasaheb Thackeray. I have no issue working with Uddhav — the real question is, does he feel the same?”
At a separate event held by the Bhartiya Kamgar Sena, Uddhav Thackeray echoed Raj’s sentiments and extended a conditional olive branch. “I’m ready to bury old conflicts for Maharashtra’s sake,” he declared. “But we must be consistent. One cannot keep flip-flopping alliances. Those who act against the state’s interests have no place in this unity.”
While neither leader confirmed a formal alliance, the door appears open. MNS general secretary Sandeep Deshpande welcomed the tone but urged clarity. “Raj has asked the right question — does the other side really want this unity? Until that’s clear, these remain just words.”
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve added his voice to the chorus calling for unity among Marathi-speaking people. “Political differences aside, Uddhav and Raj are brothers. If they come together for Maharashtra, it will be a turning point.”
Though the road to reconciliation remains uncertain, the intent to place Maharashtra’s interests above political egos could signal a powerful new chapter in the state’s political narrative.