In a surprising turn of events in Maharashtra politics, cousins Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray joined forces to fight Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) 2026, ending a political divide that has lasted over two decades. Once rivals leading separate political journeys, the alliance between the two cousins marks a historic moment in the state’s political landscape. Here's a glimpse of then vs now photos of the cousins (PICS/ RANE ASHISH, SCREENGRABS, FILE PICS)
Updated On: 2026-01-14 05:25 PM IST
Compiled by : Anushree Gaikwad
Uddhav Thackeray, son of the late Bal Thackeray, inherited the leadership of the Shiv Sena. FILE PIC
On the other hand, Raj Thackeray founded the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) in 2006 after leaving the Shiv Sena and took an assertive, and at times controversial, stance on regional issues. PIC/ RANE ASHISH
Their reunion is not only symbolic but strategic, especially with the upcoming civic elections, where unity between Shiv Sena and MNS could consolidate regional votes and challenge other political rivals. FILE PIC
The “then vs now” images of the Thackerays capture more than just aging—they tell a story of rivalry, reconciliation, and reinvention. From their early days of political rivalry to the present scenario of collaboration, these visuals remind voters of the shifting dynamics of Maharashtra politics. PIC/ SCREENGRAB
As Maharashtra braces for the next round of elections, the Shiv Shakti alliance of Raj and Uddhav Thackeray has become the focal point of political conversations. PIC/ SCREENGRAB
For supporters and critics alike, the cousins’ coming together represents both nostalgia and a new chapter in the state’s political history. FILE PIC
In essence, the Thackerays’ journey—from youthful cousins with differing visions to seasoned leaders finding common ground—underscores the unpredictable and ever-evolving nature of Indian politics. PIC/ RANE ASHISH
