Maharashtra Politics at a Crossroads: Thackeray Cousins Hint at Historic Reunion

Maharashtra may be on the brink of a significant political shift, as whispers of a reunion between Uddhav Thackeray and his cousin Raj Thackeray gain momentum after nearly 20 years of estrangement.

Raj, who broke away from the Shiv Sena in 2005 to form the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), and Uddhav, the Shiv Sena (UBT) chief, are now speaking a similar language—one of unity for the sake of Maharashtra and its cultural identity.

Family First? Cousins Talk Collaboration

At separate events, both leaders struck a reconciliatory tone. Raj Thackeray stressed that personal differences between him and Uddhav are “minor” compared to the larger issues facing the Marathi community.

"Our disputes are trivial when compared to Maharashtra's future. Our rift has hurt the Marathi people. Coming together isn't difficult—it's just a matter of will,” he said, adding that ego should not come in the way of what’s best for the state.

Uddhav, for his part, said he's open to burying the hatchet—under one condition. “We can’t keep switching alliances. We must stand firm against those who act against Maharashtra’s interests,” he stated, in a subtle swipe at past political flip-flops.

Senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut supported the idea, saying both leaders are ready to move on, provided Raj distances himself from the party's ideological opponents.

What’s at Stake?

The potential reunion comes ahead of the long-delayed Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, expected later this year. A united Thackeray front could dramatically reshape the electoral landscape, particularly in Mumbai, where both have held sway.

Political Reactions:

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis struck a diplomatic note, saying reunions are always welcome but doubted their impact on BJP’s prospects. BJP state president Chandrashekhar Bawankule said Raj is free to choose his political path and the BJP won’t object.

Congress welcomed the idea, interpreting Raj’s recent comments as a sign he recognizes BJP's alleged attempts to dilute Maharashtra’s culture. NCP MP Supriya Sule called it “happy news,” saying Bal Thackeray himself would have approved.

But not everyone’s on board. Sena MP Naresh Mhaske questioned the sincerity of the move, citing past tensions between the cousins. Former Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam dismissed the alliance as politically ineffective, saying, “Two zeros don’t make a one.”