Uddhav-Raj Unity or Desperation? A Political Comeback Draped in Marathi Identity!

National News: The political capital of India witnessed a dramatic family reunion on Saturday as Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and MNS leader Raj Thackeray stood united on a public stage after nearly 20 years. The occasion was the ‘Awaaz Marathicha’ rally held in Worli, ostensibly to defend the Marathi language against Hindi imposition. But beyond language, what echoed louder was the political subtext.

The BJP, sensing a tactical move before crucial BMC polls, slammed the event as a calculated alliance born out of fear and fading relevance. As the crowd cheered for the Thackeray cousins, the opposition narrative was equally loud — this was less about Marathi identity and more about electoral survival.

Not Pride, Pure Politics

The BJP quickly hit back, saying the rally was a desperate spectacle of two leaders who’ve lost political relevance. State minister Ashish Shelar said this was not a language movement but a family get-together for lost political ground. “This isn’t about Marathi pride; it’s about saving their sinking careers,” he claimed. Shelar accused the brothers of staging unity only because of BJP’s growing dominance in Mumbai. With BMC elections approaching, the timing, he said, was no coincidence.

‘Language’ Just a Pretext

According to BJP insiders, the rally masked deeper political anxiety. The state government’s rollback of Hindi in early classes became the excuse, but the motive lay elsewhere. Both Thackeray factions have been struggling to hold voter bases. BJP alleges the cousins are trying to combine forces to reclaim lost urban strongholds. “This is political theatre wrapped in linguistic sentiment,” one BJP spokesperson said.

Uddhav Hints at Alliance

Uddhav Thackeray, speaking at the rally, openly hinted at fighting civic elections jointly with Raj. He claimed their unity was for “Marathi interests,” though political observers read it as a practical truce. “We are here together for Maharashtra’s future,” he said. His speech struck an emotional tone, referencing Bal Thackeray’s dream, while sidestepping current political failures.

Raj Targets Fadnavis

Raj Thackeray brought a punchline that quickly went viral. “Devendra Fadnavis did what Balasaheb couldn’t — he brought us back together,” he quipped. Though the line drew applause, it underscored BJP’s centrality in their political rethink. For Raj, known for his oratory and anti-Hindi stance, this was also a comeback stage after political dormancy.

BJP Sees Weakness Exposed

BJP MLC Praveen Darekar attacked the brothers, saying Uddhav's helpless tone showed desperation while Raj was merely using language to stay relevant. He said the Marathi public had already chosen the BJP-led Mahayuti in 2024. “This wasn’t a cultural event — it was a political script,” he added.

‘BMC or Bust’ Strategy

The looming BMC elections are believed to be the main trigger for this sudden display of unity. Both parties, once dominant in Mumbai’s civic politics, have watched BJP grow steadily. Joining hands is seen as the last shot to stop BJP from sweeping the civic polls. The BJP has now made it clear — the Thackeray show won’t go unanswered. With a digital push and strong grassroots, the party believes this alliance will fail. The war for Mumbai has officially begun.