Uddhav and Raj Thackeray Reunite for ‘Awaj Marathicha’ Rally in Worli

After two decades of political separation, Uddhav Thackeray (Shiv Sena UBT chief) and Raj Thackeray (MNS chief) will share the stage at a joint rally in Worli today. The event marks a rare show of unity between the Thackeray cousins, who parted ways after a power struggle.

Rally Planned After Hindi Language Rollback

The event, titled ‘Awaj Marathicha’ (Voice of the Marathi), was organized after the Mahayuti government withdrew its decision to make Hindi a mandatory third language in primary schools. Both Raj and Uddhav opposed the move. Several intellectuals also joined their protest, forcing the government to reverse its plan.

Possible Political Alliance in the Works

Political analysts believe this united front could signal a potential political reunion between the cousins. Many expect this partnership to gain momentum before the local body elections later this year.

Parties Gear Up for Massive Turnout

Both parties are putting on a show of strength at the NSCI Dome in Worli. According to a Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, the dome has a seating capacity of 8,000, but the crowd is expected to exceed that. For those who can’t get inside, the organizers have set up LED screens outside the venue.

Stage Set for a Spectacle

Ajit Bhure, a Marathi film director, will host the rally. MNS leader Yashwant Killedar said, “We have erected a grand stage with the map of Maharashtra in the background, headlined ‘Awaj Marathicha’. We have arranged nearly 6000 chairs. Tents have been set up on all sides of the NSCI Dome, and screens propped up high on footpaths. We expect people to come spontaneously. Traffic on Annie Besant Road may have to be stopped.”

Senior Leaders Oversee Preparations

Earlier this week, Anil Parab (Shiv Sena UBT) and Bala Nandgaonkar (MNS) took charge of planning. With help from party workers, they oversaw logistics and held meetings to ensure everything went smoothly.

LED Screens, Posters, and Powerful Visuals

Local leaders were instructed to install LED screens in their neighborhoods. Meanwhile, social media featured teaser videos showing Uddhav and Raj as lions fighting hyenas—meant to symbolize their critics.

Throughout Mumbai—including Lalbaug, Parel, Dadar, and Worli—banners show the cousins alongside late Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. The slogans boldly declare, “Who brings down the government to its knees? Marathi manoos”, “Unity of the Marathi people is the need of the time and real strength for us.”

Cultural Touch Adds Flavor

Kunal Manikar, MNS’s western Mumbai head, announced, “The Marathi mandals have heeded our call. A Jai Jawan Govinda Mandal will form a human pyramid at the venue.”

Hints at Political Realignment

Kishori Pednekar, a Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, commented, “Though the rally is for the cause of Marathi, it could be the beginning of a renewed alliance between the cousins ahead of the local body polls.”

Vinayak Raut also added, “People will come from across Maharashtra to see the two brothers together. Leaders from allied parties such as Jayant Patil of NCP (SP), and CPI and CPM will join us.”

Top Opposition Chiefs Skip, But Parties Attend

While the rally has drawn wide attention, Sharad Pawar (NCP-SP) and Harshwardhan Sapkal (Congress) will not attend. However, both parties will send representatives to show their support.