Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : Maharashtra civic polls: Raj and Uddhav Thackeray join hands after 20 years and Its Impact and why it matters right now.
Raj Thackeray had quit the undivided Shiv Sena in 2005 following differences with Uddhav Thackeray and later formed the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS).
Their reunion marks a significant moment in Maharashtra politics, particularly in Mumbai’s civic landscape.
Symbolic reunion on a shared stage
The two leaders appeared together with their families as they walked on stage, signalling a show of unity after years of estrangement.
Senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut described the moment as an “auspicious beginning”, as per News18.
“This is an auspicious beginning to ensure the saffron flag keeps unfolding on BMC and other municipal corporations. And this can only be done by Thackeray brothers,” Raut said.
Addressing the gathering, Uddhav Thackeray said they were standing together “as Thackeray brothers”. Recalling the family’s legacy, he said, “Our grandfather Prabodhankar Thackeray was the one who led the fight for Maharashtra. After we got Mumbai in Maharashtra, the Shiv Sena Pramukh formed the party. It will be 60 years since the formation of the Shiv Sena.”
Marathi identity and political message
The former Maharashtra chief minister accused unnamed forces of attempting to “destroy Mumbai”.
“If we keep fighting, it will be an insult to Hutatma. No one can ever take Mumbai away from Marathi Manus. BJP then said ‘Batenge toh Katenge’. Now, I am calling the Marathi Manus—If they falter now, then they will be divided,” Uddhav Thackeray said.
Taking the microphone next, Raj Thackeray emphasised reconciliation. “Maharashtra is bigger than any misunderstanding or fight,” he said, as per News18. “That’s where we have begun. We are not here to convey who will fight how many seats.”
He confirmed that the alliance would extend to Nashik and added, “We will announce for other corporations after our meeting today,” while asserting that “Mumbai’s mayor will be a Maharashtrian and it will be from our party”.
Electoral implications across Maharashtra
The alliance follows weeks of negotiations over seat-sharing for elections to 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra.
Politically, the tie-up could consolidate Marathi-speaking voters in Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Nashik and the wider Mumbai Metropolitan Region, where divided votes have previously benefited rival parties, as per News18.
While Shiv Sena (UBT) retains organisational strength, particularly in Mumbai and the Konkan, the MNS brings street-level influence and emotional appeal among urban Marathi youth.
Together, the cousins’ reunion may reshape civic contests, challenge rival Sena factions, and make Maharashtra’s municipal polls more competitive and unpredictable.