Thackeray Cousins Reunite: Uddhav and Raj to Lead ‘Marathi Vijay Diwas’ Rally After Language‑Policy Victory

Nearly two decades after parting ways politically, cousins Uddhav Thackeray (Shiv Sena‑UBT) and Raj Thackeray (MNS) will share a stage in Mumbai on 5 July, inviting Marathi citizens to celebrate the state government’s decision to scrap its controversial three‑language policy. The joint appeal—issued pointedly “as brothers” and free of party symbols—turns what was planned as an anti‑Hindi protest into a victory rally, signalling a rare moment of unity in Maharashtra’s fractious politics.

How the Three‑Language Policy Was Withdrawn

The state cabinet last week revoked two government orders that would have introduced Hindi from Classes 1‑5 alongside Marathi and English. Critics said the move diluted Marathi identity and over‑burdened primary students. Backed by opposition pressure and public pushback, the ruling coalition reversed course, framing the climb‑down as respect for regional sentiment.

Brothers Back Together—At Least for a Day

The new rally, titled Marathicha Awaaz (Voice of Maharashtra), is noteworthy not only for its cause but its hosts. Uddhav and Raj have rarely been seen together since the Shiv Sena split in 2006. Their invitation stresses familial ties over party loyalties, suggesting that cultural pride can trump political rivalry—if only temporarily.

What to Expect on 5 July

The event will begin at 10 a.m. at the NSCI Dome in Worli. Organisers promise cultural performances, speeches celebrating Marathi heritage, and a show of strength from both parties’ cadres. With state elections due next year, observers say the optics of unity could reshape alliances—or at least unsettle the ruling front.

Why Tier‑2 Maharashtra Is Watching Closely

Cities such as Nashik, Kolhapur, Aurangabad, and Nagpur have long been linguistic battlegrounds where Marathi and Hindi coexist uneasily in schools and signage. For parents and educators here, the rollback means less curricular upheaval and renewed focus on strengthening Marathi learning resources. Local leaders also see the rally as a test of whether regional issues can galvanise voters beyond Mumbai and Pune.

Political Ripples Beyond the Rally

The joint appearance places pressure on the Eknath Shinde‑led government, which must now defend its cultural credentials. It also complicates coalition arithmetic: a thaw between the Thackerays could realign opposition ranks in the run‑up to polls. Yet questions remain—will this cooperation endure, or is it a single‑issue truce?

Conclusion

By converting a protest into a celebration, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray have turned a policy reversal into a platform for Marathi unity—at least for one high‑profile morning. Whether the cousins’ embrace is fleeting or the start of a longer rapprochement, the 5 July rally will resonate far beyond Worli, offering Maharashtra’s voters a rare glimpse of concord in an otherwise divided landscape.