Ending a 20-year political rift, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray join forces to reclaim Mumbai’s “Marathi Identity.
December 24, 2025: In a seismic shift for Maharashtra politics, the estranged Thackeray cousins, Uddhav Thackeray (Shiv Sena-UBT) and Raj Thackeray (MNS), formally declared a pre-poll alliance on Wednesday, December 24, 2025.
This marks the first time since Raj Thackeray’s departure from the undivided Shiv Sena in 2006 that the two leaders will campaign as a unified front.
“Mumbai Will Get a Marathi Mayor”
Seated together at a packed joint press conference in Worli, the cousins projected a image of strength and regional pride.
- The Declaration: “I officially declare that Shiv Sena and MNS are alliance partners for the upcoming local body elections,” Raj Thackeray announced.2 He followed with a bold vow: “Mumbai will get a Marathi mayor,” and clarified that the person would be from their alliance.
- Uddhav’s Confidence: Echoing his cousin, Uddhav Thackeray stated, “Mumbai will stay with us, come what may.” He also referenced the “batenge toh katenge” slogan, framing the alliance as a necessary shield against the “loot” of Mumbai.
The Electoral Math: Seat Sharing & Strategy
The alliance focuses on consolidating the Marathi Manoos (sons of the soil) and Muslim voter bases (the “MaMu” strategy) to counter the BJP-Shinde coalition.3
| Party | Estimated Seats (BMC) | Core Strategy |
| Shiv Sena (UBT) | 145–150 | Retaining loyal cadre and minority pockets. |
| MNS | 65–70 | Energizing the Marathi youth and middle-class voters. |
| NCP (Sharad Pawar) | 10–12 | Providing logistical and organizational depth. |
- Regional Reach: Beyond Mumbai, the alliance is set to contest elections in Nashik, Thane, Pune, and Kalyan-Dombivli together.4
- The Congress Factor: The Congress has officially decided to contest alone, citing ideological reservations regarding the “hardline” MNS, thereby splitting the original Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) front for these local polls.5
Political Context: A New “Brand Thackeray”
The reunion follows years of rivalry that saw the Thackeray vote bank split, often benefiting the BJP.
- Sanjay Raut’s Reaction: “Balasaheb Thackeray founded Shiv Sena for the sons of the soil. To teach the BJP a lesson and stop the loot of Mumbai, the brothers have come together. It is a moment of joy for Maharashtra.”
- Jibe at Rivals: Uddhav Thackeray extended an invitation to disgruntled members of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the BJP, urging them to join their “identity-focused” movement.
Important Dates: BMC Election 2026
- Last Date for Nominations: December 30, 20256
- Date of Poll: January 15, 20267
- Date of Counting: January 16, 20268