Thackeray Cousins Hint at Reconciliation: Raj Signals Openness, Uddhav Responds with Conditions

Maharashtra’s political landscape was stirred over the weekend by renewed speculation surrounding a potential reconciliation between estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray. The fresh buzz was ignited by a podcast hosted by filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar, who engaged Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray in a candid conversation.

In the interview, Raj Thackeray addressed the enduring issue of the 'Marathi manoos' and acknowledged that his past disagreements with Uddhav were minor when weighed against the broader interests of Maharashtra and its people. He stated that he would be willing to join forces with Uddhav Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), provided the sentiment was mutual.

The remarks quickly dominated headlines across regional and national media platforms, with many highlighting Raj’s apparent openness to an alliance. Questions soon followed: Will Uddhav reciprocate? And if so, on what terms?

Adding to the intrigue, Uddhav Thackeray reportedly responded positively to the possibility of renewed ties but indicated that any collaboration would be contingent upon certain conditions—details of which remain closely guarded.

This is not the first time the idea of a reunion between the Thackeray cousins has captured public imagination. Following Raj’s exit from Balasaheb Thackeray’s Shiv Sena, there have been multiple attempts—both from within the party ranks and the Thackeray family—to bring the two leaders together in the interest of Marathi identity and regional unity. The most significant such effort occurred during the run-up to the 2017 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. Although emissaries from Raj’s side initiated dialogue, the proposal reportedly faltered when Uddhav declined to meet in person, suggesting a meeting with his deputies instead.

Raj has frequently alluded to this episode in public addresses and interviews, often citing it as a missed opportunity. However, Uddhav’s latest conditional openness to dialogue is being interpreted by political observers as a strategic move to gauge public sentiment and assess the viability of an alliance ahead of future electoral contests.

As both leaders navigate this delicate political equation, all eyes remain on whether this long-anticipated Thackeray reunion will finally materialize.