The gathering of Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray at Mumbai’s Shivaji Park during the MNS ‘Deepotsav’ was not just a festive celebration but also a significant political moment. Coming together publicly after years of estrangement, the Thackeray cousins shared the same stage under the glow of thousands of lamps, drawing attention across Maharashtra’s political spectrum. Their appearance carried emotional and political weight, signaling the potential mending of familial ties and the exploration of a strategic alliance as both leaders face crucial challenges in the months ahead.
The event took place in Dadar, a stronghold of Marathi identity and sentiment, making it symbolically powerful. Uddhav Thackeray first visited Raj’s residence, ‘Shivtirth,’ before both leaders traveled together to the event in the same car — an act that underscored their renewed camaraderie. At Shivaji Park, the two were greeted by a massive crowd of supporters, many of whom interpreted the gesture as a message of solidarity ahead of the upcoming BMC elections.
During the celebration, Uddhav Thackeray spoke about the spirit of unity among Marathi people, linking the festival of lights to the hope of collective progress. His words echoed with emotion, reflecting both cultural pride and political intent. Aaditya Thackeray also expressed enthusiasm online, describing how the Deepotsav had illuminated Shivaji Park and symbolized a sense of togetherness in the community.
While neither leader made any formal political announcements, the atmosphere suggested that this reunion might lay the groundwork for future collaboration. Both the Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS have faced political setbacks in recent years — Uddhav due to the 2022 party split that weakened his grip on the BMC, and Raj due to his party’s declining electoral influence. Coming together, even symbolically, could help them re-establish relevance and strengthen their position among Marathi voters.
Political observers believe this unity could be a turning point for the Sena (UBT), especially as the BMC elections approach. The MNS, though smaller in scale, holds considerable sway in select Marathi-speaking wards, potentially influencing results in close contests. A coordinated strategy could allow both parties to consolidate their traditional voter base and counter the growing dominance of the Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction and the BJP in Mumbai’s politics.
The sight of the Thackeray cousins together, celebrating a festival in the same space that once hosted their grandfather Balasaheb Thackeray’s fiery speeches, stirred nostalgia among supporters. For many, it felt like a restoration of the family’s original political legacy. While it remains to be seen whether this public warmth will translate into an official political alliance, Friday’s event undeniably rekindled both emotional connections and political speculation.
If this renewed bond continues to strengthen, it could reshape the political narrative in Maharashtra’s capital. The Thackerays’ symbolic reunion at Shivaji Park might not just mark the beginning of Diwali festivities but also the dawn of a new chapter in Mumbai’s political history.
