After 20 Years, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray Unite Against Hindi Push in Maharashtra Schools
Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu) : In a significant political development in Maharashtra, estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray appear to be moving closer, united by a common cause — opposing the imposition of Hindi as a third compulsory language in Maharashtra’s schools. Leaders of the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) have announced a joint protest, rekindling speculation about a potential political rapprochement between the two Thackeray factions.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut announced the collaboration on social media platform X, sharing a photo of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray together — a symbolic gesture suggesting a thaw in relations between the once-estranged leaders. In his post, Raut wrote: “There will be a single and united march against compulsory Hindi in Maharashtra schools. Thackeray is the brand! Jai Maharashtra!”
Coordinated Protests in Early July
The joint resistance will be marked by two major events. MNS chief Raj Thackeray will lead a protest rally on July 5, while Shiv Sena (UBT) will participate in a large march organized by the Marathi Coordination Committee on July 7, under the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray. Notably, Raj Thackeray’s rally was initially scheduled for July 6, but was reportedly rescheduled to July 5 after coordination with Uddhav’s camp — an adjustment seen by many as a sign of growing mutual understanding.
A Fight for Marathi Identity
The two parties have voiced strong opposition to the recent directive mandating Hindi as the third compulsory language in schools across Maharashtra. Critics argue the move undermines the cultural and linguistic identity of the state. Both Thackeray factions have pledged to resist what they describe as an “imposition” and vowed to defend Marathi pride.
Raut also hinted that this united stand is not just about language policy, but about restoring the “old prestige” of Maharashtra — an apparent reference to the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray, who founded the original Shiv Sena on a platform of Marathi pride and Hindutva.
Political Implications
The joint protest has triggered fresh speculation about a potential political alliance or at least closer cooperation between Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, who parted ways nearly two decades ago following a power struggle in the Shiv Sena. While no formal alliance has been announced, the optics of coordination are seen as significant ahead of the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections.
Political observers suggest that this show of unity could realign regional dynamics and potentially consolidate the Marathi vote bank that has been fragmented since the Shiv Sena split. As the rallies approach, all eyes will be on July 5 and 7 to see if this shared cause paves the way for a deeper political reconciliation between the two Thackeray leaders — and whether the brand of “Thackeray” can once again become a singular force in Maharashtra politics.