Uddhav Thackeray Visits Raj Thackeray’s Residence for Ganesh Chaturthi After 20 Years
In a powerful display of unity on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, Maharashtra’s prominent political figures Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray came together publicly — a move that could significantly influence the political landscape ahead of the crucial Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections later this year.
🕉️ Ganesh Chaturthi Sparks Political Reconnection
Revered as the ‘Remover of Obstacles’, Lord Ganesha appears to have played a divine role in ending a long-standing rift within the Thackeray family.
On Wednesday, Uddhav Thackeray, leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), visited Raj Thackeray’s residence ‘Shivtirth’ for Ganpati darshan — a notable moment, marking his first visit in over two decades.
This comes weeks after Raj Thackeray broke his 13-year absence from Matoshree, the Thackeray family home, by participating in Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations there in July.
United Opposition to Marathi Language Mandate
Their recent collaboration became public when both leaders strongly opposed a controversial order from the BJP-led Maharashtra government that made Marathi a compulsory subject for Classes I to V in primary schools.
- The move was seen as politically motivated.
- Under pressure from both Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, the government was forced to withdraw the decision.
This joint victory marked a turning point in their political relationship and paved the way for deeper coordination ahead of the elections.
From Rivals to Political Partners?
The Thackeray family split in 2005, following internal differences after the death of Bal Thackeray, the founder of the Shiv Sena. Since then, Uddhav and Raj have largely functioned as political rivals, each carving their own path and vying for influence over the Sena legacy.
Key moments in the divide:
- 2005: Raj Thackeray leaves Shiv Sena and forms the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS).
- Post-2005: Uddhav continues to lead Shiv Sena, eventually heading the Sena (UBT) faction.
- 2023–2025: Political tensions ease as both leaders begin to align on key public issues.
This Ganesh Chaturthi meeting is not merely ceremonial; it symbolizes a strategic realignment at a critical political juncture.
BJP Shrugs Off the Reunion
While the Thackeray family’s public unity has generated buzz, the BJP has dismissed its political relevance.
- Ameet Satam, Mumbai BJP President, said:
“People coming together is not important. Mumbaikars care about who delivers development.”
His comments followed Raj Thackeray’s surprise meeting with Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, which sparked speculation within political circles, especially after a recent union poll defeat for candidates supported by Uddhav’s faction.
Raj downplayed any controversy, stating the meeting with Fadnavis was related to town planning — an area he has long been involved in.
What This Could Mean for the BMC Elections
With the BMC polls just around the corner, the thaw in Thackeray family relations could shift voter dynamics in Mumbai:
Key points to watch:
- Will this symbolic unity translate into an official political alliance?
- How will Mumbai voters respond to a united Thackeray front?
- Can this reconciliation counter BJP’s urban development narrative?
The BJP remains confident, but a coordinated campaign by Uddhav and Raj Thackeray may present a formidable challenge.
Summary
- Uddhav and Raj Thackeray reunited during Ganesh Chaturthi, highlighting a shift in political dynamics.
- Their joint opposition led to the rollback of a Marathi language mandate in schools.
- Despite BJP’s dismissal of their reunion, the move could impact the upcoming Mumbai civic elections.
- Political observers see this as a potential turning point in Maharashtra politics.
