Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray have both hinted at reuniting amid concerns over alleged threats to Marathi culture and identity.
Mumbai:Maharashtra stares at a landmark moment in its politics with the buzz of a possible reunion of the estranged Thackeray cousins after two decades. Raj Thackeray, who had quit Shiv Sena in 2005 to start his own party, and former chief minister Uddhav Thackeray have both hinted at reuniting amid concerns over alleged threats to Marathi culture and identity.
While the BJP and the Congress have said they would welcome such a reunion, a patch-up could mean the Thackerays putting up a joint fight against the BJP in the upcoming civic body elections in Mumbai. The Congress and NCP know this and are optimistic.
The Reunion Buzz
The Thackeray cousins have conveyed a strong message to Maharashtra's voters - that the state's interests and Marathi culture are above political rivalries. Speaking at separate events, they hinted it was beneficial for the state if they came together again.
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray said the differences between them are "minor" and impacting the Marathi people.
"The disputes and fights between Uddhav and me are minor -- Maharashtra is much bigger than all that. These differences are proving costly for Maharashtra's existence and the Marathi people. Coming together is not difficult. It's a matter of will. It's not just about my desire or selfishness," Raj Thackeray said, adding that he would not let his ego come in between if the state wants them to come together.
His reunion with Uddhav Thackeray would mean a departure from his unconditional support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 2024 national elections.
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