In a rare political reunion, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray came together on a public platform after nearly two decades, jointly addressing a “victory rally” against the Maharashtra government’s now-withdrawn three-language formula.
The rally, titled ‘Awaj Marathicha’ (Voice of the Marathi), was held to celebrate the rollback of government resolutions (GRs) mandating Hindi as a third compulsory language from Class 1 in state schools.
In a sharp political attack during his address, Raj Thackeray alleged that the language policy was a precursor to a larger plan aimed at separating Mumbai from Maharashtra.
“This decision was not just about language. It was a part of a larger conspiracy to alienate Mumbai from Maharashtra. But the Marathi people’s unity forced the government to backtrack,” said Raj Thackeray, with Uddhav seated beside him.
In a lighter tone, Raj took a dig at the political situation, saying:
“Even Balasaheb Thackeray couldn’t bring us together. But Devendra Fadnavis managed to do what no one else could—he united me and Uddhav,” drawing loud cheers from the crowd.
The event marked a symbolic and politically significant moment in Maharashtra politics, as both Thackeray cousins, who had parted ways in the early 2000s, were seen sharing the dais and political sentiment over a common cause.
The Maharashtra government had earlier issued two GRs introducing Hindi as a mandatory third language in state-run schools starting from Class 1. The move sparked widespread backlash, particularly from pro-Marathi groups, prompting a strong wave of protests and ultimately, a government rollback of the controversial orders.
Uddhav Thackeray, speaking later, emphasized the importance of preserving Marathi identity and culture, reiterating that the fight was not against any language but for the rightful status of Marathi in Maharashtra.
Political analysts see this unexpected Thackeray reunion as a possible realignment in regional politics, especially with growing sentiments over linguistic and cultural identity in the state.
