Thackeray Brothers Unite for Marathi Language in Landmark Rally
In a moment that could reshape the political narrative of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray shared the stage for the first time in two decades on July 5, 2025, at the NSCI Dome, Worli, Mumbai. Titled ‘Marathicha Awaaz’ (Voice of Marathi), the rally marked a rare show of unity between the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS)—two parties that have long been at odds since Raj Thackeray’s split in 2006.
Thackeray brothers to address joint victory rally today to celebrate Maha govt’s turnaround on Hindi from Grade 1
— Mumbaipressnews (@MumbaiPressNews) July 5, 2025
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The event was not only a celebration of Marathi identity but also a political response to the withdrawal of the controversial three-language policy by the BJP-led state government. That policy had attempted to make Hindi compulsory in Classes 1 to 5 across English and Marathi-medium schools—a move that sparked intense backlash.
Now, with the Mumbai civic elections around the corner, this reunion carries significant electoral and ideological implications for regional politics.
Marathi Language Takes Center Stage After Policy Reversal
The immediate trigger for this rally was the state government’s April 16, 2025 resolution to enforce Hindi as a compulsory language in primary schools. The policy was quickly amended on June 17, and fully withdrawn by June 29 following strong protests. Both Uddhav and Raj had openly condemned the move, accusing the government of trying to undermine Marathi identity.
In a rare show of solidarity, their parties burned copies of the resolution, staged protests, and planned a joint rally—which eventually transformed into a celebratory show of resistance. What made the event even more unique was its non-partisan setup: no party flags, symbols, or slogans—just the Marathi language and culture at the forefront.
By organizing the event under a neutral banner, the Thackerays effectively appealed to a wider Maharashtrian base, signaling that the fight for linguistic identity goes beyond party politics.
Political Timing Raises Stakes for Mumbai Civic Elections
The rally comes at a crucial time, with Mumbai municipal elections approaching. Both Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS have seen waning influence in recent years, and this public display of unity is seen as an attempt to regain lost ground in the state’s most crucial urban stronghold.
However, the absence of Congress and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction)—key members of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance—raises questions about the opposition’s internal cohesion. As per Live Mint, these parties chose not to attend the event, despite sharing similar views on the language issue. This decision has sparked speculation about power dynamics and trust deficits within the alliance.
Meanwhile, allegations have surfaced, especially in Times Now’s reporting, that the BJP attempted to thwart the Thackeray reunion, fearing the combined regional appeal might pose a threat in the civic polls. While unconfirmed, this adds another layer of political intrigue.
A Cultural Comeback or a Tactical Alliance?
This rally is more than a symbolic reunion. It may well be the start of a long-term recalibration in Maharashtra’s political landscape. By uniting on the issue of Marathi asmita (pride), the Thackeray cousins have tapped into core regional emotions at a time when identity politics are at the forefront.
Recent incidents—such as attacks over non-Marathi usage in public spaces, and citizens being forced to apologize for not using the language—have only amplified the cultural narrative. While these incidents are controversial, they reflect a deeper public sentiment that both leaders seem eager to harness.
Whether this unity sustains beyond a single event remains to be seen. But as of July 5, 2025, the Thackeray brothers are back on the same stage, speaking one language: Marathi.
