In a symbolic gesture of unity, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray joined forces at the MNS-organized ‘Deepotsav’ event at Mumbai’s Shivaji Park on Friday evening.
The gathering in Dadar, a Marathi stronghold, went beyond mere festivities. With the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections on the horizon, the event held significant political undertones, hinting at a potential reconciliation between the Thackeray cousins.
Amid enthusiastic cheers from the audience, Uddhav and Raj, accompanied by their families, graced the stage. Uddhav kicked off the Diwali-themed celebration after visiting Raj’s residence, ‘Shivtirth,’ before arriving together at Shivaji Park in a shared car, a powerful symbol of unity captured by the media.
During the event, Uddhav expressed, “Today’s Diwali is special. The unity of Marathi community and its brightness will bring joy to everyone’s lives.” Aaditya Thackeray also shared his excitement on social media about the illuminated Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park during the Deepotsav.
While no direct political statements were made, the visual representation spoke volumes — the Thackeray family’s joint appearance ahead of the crucial local elections conveyed a strong message.
Facing a significant challenge after the 2022 party split, the Shiv Sena, ruling the BMC since 1997, might benefit from a potential alliance with Raj’s MNS to unite the Marathi vote, which fragmented post-Raj’s departure from Shiv Sena in 2005.
Although the MNS holds a limited overall vote share, its influence in Marathi-speaking wards could be pivotal in tight races, particularly in around 90 Mumbai wards.
Both the MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT) faced setbacks in the 2024 assembly polls, with MNS failing to secure any seats. Following multiple meetings, the two leaders have reportedly been exploring avenues for collaboration.
The joint appearance at Shivaji Park on Friday could signal a new political chapter for the Thackeray cousins.