Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray after announcing a historic alliance on Wednesday in Mumbai. PIC/ ASHISH RAJE
After two decades of political rivalry, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Raj Thackeray announced a historic alliance on Wednesday to contest the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, marking a landmark moment for Maharashtra.
The joint press conference was held at a hotel in Worli, Mumbai.
Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, described the reunion as a "historic day for Maharashtra" and a turning point in state politics.
Raj Thackeray formally announced the alliance, stating, "Maharashtra is greater than any fight or rivalry. Today, I announce the alliance of Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS."
The alliance will contest the BMC elections on January 15, along with elections to 28 other municipal corporations, including Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.
Counting of votes is scheduled for January 16.
Both Uddhav and Raj Thackeray paid tributes to Balasaheb Thackeray at his memorial in Shivaji Park, Mumbai, ahead of the announcement.
Family members, including Aaditya Thackeray and Amit Thackeray, were present during the homage, highlighting the personal significance of the reunion.
Party workers from both sides expressed excitement, with MNS leader Yashwant Killedar calling it a "long-awaited and emotional day."
The announcement ended years of political distance between the cousins, signalling unity among party cadres.
Uddhav Thackeray drew parallels with the Samyukta Maharashtra movement, saying, "This reminds us of the struggle for a united Maharashtra. Shiv Sena fought for the Marathi people, and this year marks 60 years of the party."
Leaders emphasised protecting the cause of the Marathi manoos and maintaining unity among Marathi-speaking citizens.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant called the alliance an "auspicious moment" for the people of Maharashtra, reflecting strong regional pride and civic focus.
After two decades of rivalry, Thackeray cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray on Wednesday announced a political reunion to take on the BJP in Mumbai, calling it a historic moment for Maharashtra. The development triggered sharp political reactions across parties.
The joint press conference was held at a hotel in Worli, where Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut said the coming together of the two leaders marked a turning point in Maharashtra's politics.
"Today is a historic day for Maharashtra. The state will stand united with this alliance," Raut said.
Drawing parallels with the Samyukta Maharashtra movement, Uddhav Thackeray said the reunion was aimed at safeguarding the state and its people.
"This reminds us of the struggle for a united Maharashtra. Shiv Sena (before the split) fought for the Marathi people, and this year marks 60 years of the party," he said.
Reacting to the alliance, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant described the moment as long-awaited. "This is a very auspicious moment. Mumbai has always accommodated everyone. We have never divided people on caste or religion, we have always stood for the Marathi manoos," Sawant said.
For party workers, the alliance signals the end of years of political distance between the two cousins. Cadres from both parties hope the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections will reverse recent electoral setbacks, including the drubbing in panchayat polls.
