July 5, 2025: In a dramatic show of unity after nearly 20 years, estranged cousins Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray stood together on one stage during a high-voltage victory rally in Worli, Mumbai. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief, Raj Thackeray, took the opportunity to mock the state government, saying, “Devendra Fadnavis has done what even Balasaheb Thackeray couldn’t — bring me and Uddhav together.”
The rally marks a significant political moment following the Maharashtra government’s reversal of two controversial Government Resolutions (GRs) that introduced Hindi as a third language in primary schools. The first GR mandated Hindi as a third language from Classes 1 to 5, while the second made it optional. The policy sparked public and political backlash, ultimately forcing Chief Minister Fadnavis to revoke both decisions.
Why the Rally Was Held
The event was organized as a show of strength and a celebration of what MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders are calling a “people’s victory.” The reversal of the language policy is being hailed by Marathi leaders as a win for regional identity and linguistic pride.
“Finally, they witnessed the power of Maharashtra and Marathi people,” Raj Thackeray told the cheering crowd. “That’s what forced them to withdraw the GRs.”
Fallout Over the Language Controversy
The controversy had reached a boiling point when MNS workers allegedly assaulted a shopkeeper for not speaking in Marathi. In response, CM Fadnavis clarified that “no one in the state should be targeted for not knowing Marathi,” attempting to ease tensions.
The state government also took symbolic action by announcing that October 3 would now be celebrated annually as “Classical Marathi Language Day”, further emphasizing the cultural significance of the language in Maharashtra’s identity.
Additionally, a committee led by educationist and former Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Narendra Jadhav has been formed to reexamine the three-language formula in schools, indicating that the issue is far from resolved.
A Rare Show of Unity
Political observers noted the significance of Raj and Uddhav Thackeray’s public appearance together. The two have had a famously fraught relationship since Raj broke away from the Shiv Sena to form the MNS in 2006. Their reunion at the rally signals a potential realignment in Maharashtra’s regional politics — and a united front on Marathi identity.
Whether this public display of solidarity translates into long-term political collaboration remains to be seen, but for now, both leaders seem focused on asserting the importance of Marathi culture in state policy.