Thackeray Cousins Signal New Political Chapter

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray recently visited Matoshree, the Thackeray family residence, to meet his cousin and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray on his 65th birthday. This significant visit on Sunday, July 27, 2025, is widely seen as a signal of easing tensions and improving relations between the long-estranged political figures. Raj was joined by senior MNS leaders Bala Nandgaonkar and Nitin Sardesai, underscoring the formal nature of the occasion.

The visit follows recent public appearances where the cousins shared a political stage for the first time in two decades. Their reunion was driven by the common cause of Marathi identity and opposition to the "imposition" of Hindi. At a Worli rally, Uddhav Thackeray explicitly declared, "We have come together to stay together," suggesting a lasting unity to protect Marathi interests.

Inside Matoshree, the atmosphere was symbolic, with Raj and Uddhav posing with Balasaheb Thackeray's portrait and Raj seeking blessings at the iconic chair. Raj humorously noted that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had accomplished what even Balasaheb couldn't, bringing the cousins together. This marks a notable shift, given Raj last formally visited Matoshree in 2012 and only briefly in 2019 for a family event.

This rapprochement strongly suggests a potential political alliance, particularly ahead of Maharashtra's civic polls. Uddhav Thackeray has already expressed confidence in their ability to take control of the Mumbai civic body and Maharashtra. While Raj, who founded MNS in 2006, stated that any alliance decision would come at an "appropriate time," the recent "trailer" hints at a formidable joint front.