Categories
After 20 years of political estrangement, the Thackeray brothers reunited on stage at a massive ‘Victory Rally’ in Mumbai, drawing over 1 lakh supporters and marking a historic moment in Shiv Sena’s political resurgence
In a moment that has stunned Maharashtra’s political landscape, Shiv Sena leaders Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray shared the stage after a dramatic 20-year separation, coming together at a massive ‘Victory Rally’ held in Mumbai. The symbolic reunion drew an estimated 1 lakh+ supporters, transforming the gathering into one of the most monumental political events in recent Maharashtra history.
The Thackeray brothers had not appeared together on a public platform since their highly publicized fallout in 2005, when Raj Thackeray split from Shiv Sena to form the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). The rivalry between the two leaders became one of the most talked-about family feuds in Indian politics. However, at the rally on July 4, 2025, the two leaders shocked the political world with a powerful handshake and warm gestures that hinted at reconciliation.
Addressing the crowd, Uddhav Thackeray called it “a moment of emotional significance,” emphasizing that “blood is thicker than politics.” Raj Thackeray, in his speech, echoed this sentiment, saying, “This is not just a political alignment, this is the call of Maharashtra’s soul.”
Political analysts are speculating that the timing of the reunion is strategic, coming on the heels of Shiv Sena’s resounding electoral victories in key municipal and assembly bypolls across Maharashtra. The party, facing threats from both the BJP and internal splits, appears to be reconsolidating its roots.
The presence of Thackeray Brothers sends a strong message of unity, aimed at strengthening the Marathi manoos vote bank and countering right-wing polarization.
Some insiders suggest the reunion was quietly facilitated by Sharad Pawar, the veteran NCP leader, who has long believed that Maharashtra’s regional forces must stand together against what he terms as “Delhi’s aggressive centralism.” While Pawar was not present at the rally, his influence loomed large.
Held at Shivaji Park, the same venue where Balasaheb Thackeray once delivered firebrand speeches that defined the rise of Shiv Sena, the rally was more than a celebration—it was a statement. From saffron flags to thunderous slogans like “Jai Maharashtra” and “Shiv Sena Zindabad,” the atmosphere was electrifying.
Key highlights included:
- A joint garlanding of Balasaheb Thackeray’s portrait by both brothers.
- A 10-minute standing ovation when the two leaders embraced.
- Massive LED screens and drones projecting real-time visuals to the vast crowd.
- Speeches laced with regional pride, anti-centralization rhetoric, and appeals to youth unity.
The event also saw the presence of several senior Shiv Sena leaders, MNS cadres, and even celebrities from the Marathi film industry, signaling the growing appeal of this new political chemistry.
“The blood we share is our strength. Raj and I may have taken different roads, but our destination was always Maharashtra’s pride.”
“Enough of division. The time has come to unite for the people, for culture, and for the Marathi identity that Balasaheb envisioned.”
Aditya Thackeray, also present at the rally, spoke with vigor, saying:
“This is history in the making. The Thackerays are back, and Maharashtra will feel our roar once again.”
The reunion sent #ThackerayBrothers, #ShivSenaVictoryRally, and #RajUddhavUnite trending across social media platforms within minutes. Videos of the two leaders hugging and addressing the cheering crowd went viral on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube.
Some popular fan reactions:
- “Is this the start of Shiv Sena 2.0? What a powerful moment for Marathi pride!”
- “Never thought I’d see Uddhav and Raj together again. Balasaheb must be smiling from above.”
- “This is a masterstroke before the 2029 state elections!”
This unity may mark a new era for regional politics in Maharashtra. While neither leader confirmed a formal political merger between Shiv Sena and MNS, the signs are unmistakable. Insiders reveal that a power-sharing formula is under discussion, with Raj Thackeray potentially taking charge of urban mobilization and youth outreach, while Uddhav continues to anchor party leadership.
Some implications include:
- Restructuring of Shiv Sena’s youth wing to accommodate MNS talent.
- Joint election rallies in upcoming civic body polls in Pune, Thane, and Nashik.
- A consolidated anti-BJP front in Maharashtra, with Thackerays playing central roles.
The BJP, in response, issued a brief statement saying, “Public drama won’t fix administrative failures.” However, the saffron camp is reportedly worried about the emotional resonance this reunion might generate among voters.
Dr. Neelima Deshmukh, a political analyst from Mumbai University, said:
“This is not just a family reunion. It’s a political realignment that could tilt power dynamics in the 2029 assembly elections.”
Anil Patil, a veteran journalist, noted:
“It’s Balasaheb Thackeray’s legacy at play. The emotional quotient is high, and if strategically executed, this could unify the fragmented Marathi vote.”
Security and Crowd Management
Given the scale of the event, Mumbai Police deployed 2,000+ personnel, including riot control units, drone surveillance teams, and bomb detection squads. There were no reports of unrest, and authorities praised the discipline shown by supporters.
In a press statement, the Mumbai Commissioner of Police said:
“Crowd control measures were effective. The gathering was peaceful and showed the best side of public participation.”
Read Also : Shiv Sena MLA Pratap Sarnaik Cracks Down on 25+ Illegal Rapido Bike Taxis in Thane Raid
