In a historic moment for Maharashtra politics, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Raj Thackeray shared the stage for the first time in 28 years. The long-awaited reunion came during the ‘Awaj Marathicha’ rally in Mumbai, organised to celebrate the Maharashtra government’s rollback of Hindi as an optional third language in schools.
महाराष्ट्राने मनात जपलेला सुवर्णक्षण…! pic.twitter.com/kugbSPx0JU
— ShivSena – शिवसेना Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (@ShivSenaUBT_) July 5, 2025
“We have come together to stay together… We have united to protect Marathi,” Uddhav Thackeray declared to a cheering crowd, reaffirming a shared commitment to the preservation and promotion of the Marathi language and culture.
The rally, held at the NSCI Dome in Worli, was attended by a wide cross-section of Marathi society — including writers, poets, editors, artists, and educators — all celebrating what the Thackeray cousins described as a “triumph of Marathi unity.”
Raj Thackeray Hails Fadnavis for Thackeray Reunion
In a rare show of camaraderie, Raj Thackeray also addressed the gathering and acknowledged the political irony behind their reunion. “CM Fadnavis managed to do what Balasaheb Thackeray could not — bring myself and Uddhav together,” Raj quipped, drawing laughter and applause from the audience.
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The Maharashtra government’s decision to reverse its controversial policy of making Hindi an optional third language was seen as a win by both parties, who had strongly opposed the move. The rollback provided the backdrop for the event that many now view as the potential beginning of a united Marathi front.
While the event had cultural overtones, it carried strong political messaging as well, suggesting a renewed regional push to strengthen Marathi identity in education and governance.
