Thackeray Cousins Reunite After 20 Years in Massive Marathi Pride Rally at Worli

Mumbai | July 2025 — In a historic political turn, Thackeray cousins reunite after 20 years and shared the same stage in Mumbai’s Worli for a fiery “Marathi Pride” rally. Their coming together has not only reignited Maharashtra’s regional pride debate but also reshaped the state’s political landscape.

Thackeray Cousins Reunite: What Brought Them Back?

The primary spark behind this reunion was the BJP-led Maharashtra government’s controversial order to introduce Hindi as a mandatory third language in schools. Although the government withdrew the order after public backlash, the damage was done — and the Thackeray cousins reunited under the banner of Marathi asmita (Marathi identity).

Their powerful message: Marathi language and culture must not be sidelined.

A Look Back: Why Were They Estranged?

The cousins split nearly 20 years ago, after Balasaheb Thackeray, the founder of Shiv Sena, chose Uddhav over Raj to succeed him. This led Raj to form the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) in 2006, while Uddhav carried forward Shiv Sena.

Despite their shared roots, political rivalry and ego kept them apart—until now.

Raj Thackeray’s Explosive Comments

Raj didn’t hold back at the rally. He controversially said:

“If someone puts on a drama for not speaking Marathi, hit them below their eardrums… but don’t record it, let them file the complaint.”

While many criticized this as inciting violence, Raj doubled down on the need to protect the Marathi language with aggression if needed.

Uddhav Thackeray Embraces ‘Goondagiri’

In response to allegations of Shiv Sainiks using force, Uddhav boldly stated:

“Yes, we are goons. If we have to be goons to get justice, we will do goondagiri.”

The unapologetic tone sparked debate but also earned support from hardcore Sena loyalists who believe in aggressive politics.

Political Strategy Behind the Reunion

This isn’t just about language. The cousins are eyeing:

• Reclaiming the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), India’s richest civic body.
• Reviving lost political ground, especially after Uddhav’s loss of party name and symbol in 2022.
• Rebuilding a powerful Marathi vote bank to challenge both BJP and rebel Shiv Sena factions led by Eknath Shinde.

Raj’s MNS, which once held 13 assembly seats, scored zero in the 2024 elections, while Uddhav’s alliance did well nationally but faltered in state politics. A reunion offers both parties a much-needed boost.

Beyond Language: A Larger Agenda?

Raj hinted at a deeper motive behind the government’s Hindi language push — suggesting it was a “test run” for a bigger plan to separate Mumbai from Maharashtra. His claim struck a nerve and added urgency to the rally’s message.

Clashes with BJP and Ideological Stand

Uddhav slammed the BJP for allegedly promoting the “Hindi, Hindu, Hindustan” narrative, saying:

“We will protect Hindutva, but in the Marathi language.”

This statement reinforced the rally’s key message: Marathi identity and Hindu pride can coexist without surrendering to North Indian domination.

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Key Takeaways

• Marathi Pride was the emotional glue binding the Thackerays after decades.
• BJP’s language policy backfired, unintentionally paving the way for their reunion.
• Aggressive rhetoric from both cousins drew criticism and support.
• Mumbai’s civic power battle could be the real long-term motive.

What’s Next?

All eyes are now on upcoming local elections, especially in Mumbai. Will this historic reunion change the power equation in Maharashtra? Or will internal contradictions resurface?

One thing is certain — the Marathi manus (Marathi person) is back at the center of political discourse, and the Thackerays are once again leading the charge.

Disclaimer: The post is based on the information available at reliable sites at the time of writing and shared for information purpose only.