In what could signal a significant shift in Maharashtra's political dynamics, Uddhav Sena MP Sanjay Raut addressed speculation surrounding a possible reunion between estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, stating that the recent interactions between the two were rooted in “emotional conversations” rather than concrete political deliberations.
“There is no alliance, only emotional talks are going on,” Raut told the media on Sunday, aiming to manage expectations while also acknowledging the growing warmth between the two leaders after years of public and personal estrangement.
Despite ruling out an official alliance at this stage, Raut emphasized the depth of their familial ties and left the door open for future collaboration.
“Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray are brothers. We have been together for years. Our relationship has not broken… Both brothers will decide,” he said, underlining that any formal political step would have to come from the two themselves.
Raut also noted that the Shiv Sena (Uddhav faction), which has been navigating a turbulent political climate since its split in 2022, is not averse to joining hands with Raj’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS)—provided it aligns with the broader interest of the state and its people.
“We have accepted what Uddhav Ji said: for Maharashtra, if we need to come together, we will,” Raut stated.
These remarks come in the wake of a rare moment of openness from Raj Thackeray, who, during a conversation with director Mahesh Manjrekar, surprised many by expressing his readiness to reconcile with Uddhav for the greater cause of Maharashtra.
“For me, the interest of Maharashtra is bigger; everything else is secondary. I can keep aside our minor disputes,” Raj said, signaling a willingness to overcome past grievances that date back nearly two decades.“I am ready to work with Uddhav, but the only question is whether he too is ready to work with me,” he added, throwing the ball into his cousin’s court.
Sanjay Raut reiterated this sentiment during his media interaction, subtly criticizing the BJP for what he described as attempts to undermine the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray and dilute the pride of Maharashtra.
“Uddhav Ji said that there are a few parties who claim to be well-wishers of Maharashtra, but they are the enemies of Maharashtra. They broke Bala Saheb's Shiv Sena to attack the pride of Maharashtra,” said Raut.“With such parties, we shouldn't have any relations. Only then can we be true Maharashtrians. This is not a condition, but a reflection of the feelings of the people.”
This symbolic thaw between the Thackeray cousins comes at a politically volatile time. The Devendra Fadnavis-led BJP government in Maharashtra has triggered controversy with its decision to implement Hindi as a compulsory third language from Classes 1 to 5, under the National Education Policy (NEP). The decision has sparked widespread protests and debates, with many accusing the Centre and the state BJP leadership of attempting to impose Hindi and marginalize regional languages, especially Marathi.
For many political observers, the renewed warmth between Uddhav and Raj—both seen as defenders of Marathi identity and federal values—could evolve into a formidable political front, especially in the lead-up to the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections. If the cousins can overcome their historical tensions, they could potentially unify a fractured voter base and challenge the BJP-Shinde alliance from a position of cultural and emotional strength.
The history between the two is long and complicated. Raj Thackeray left the Shiv Sena in 2005 following differences with Uddhav and launched the MNS in 2006, presenting himself as the true ideological heir of Balasaheb’s fiery, regionalist brand of politics. Over time, both parties have struggled to recapture the widespread support that the original Shiv Sena once commanded across Maharashtra.
Now, as both Uddhav and Raj look to rebuild their respective political legacies—amid shifting alliances, growing centralization of power, and rising linguistic nationalism—a reunion may not just be politically strategic but also emotionally resonant for a large segment of Marathi voters who remain loyal to the Thackeray name.
While the path ahead remains uncertain, the emotional overtures from both sides hint at a possible reimagining of the Thackeray brand of politics, grounded in regional pride but adapting to new political realities.
