Mumbai – June 7, 2025:-
In a statement that has sent Maharashtra’s political circles into a frenzy, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray hinted at a significant political development, potentially paving the way for a long-anticipated alliance with his estranged cousin Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). Addressing reporters on Friday, Uddhav chose his words carefully but left little doubt that something major is brewing. “Whatever is in the minds of the people of Maharashtra will happen. I won’t give any hints now, but direct news will come in a few days,” he said.
His remarks follow Raj Thackeray’s recent indication of openness to collaboration, triggering a wave of speculation around a possible Shiv Sena (UBT)–MNS tie-up. The two cousins, who had parted ways two decades ago over ideological and strategic differences, now seem to be inching toward political reconciliation. The timing of these developments is critical, as local body elections draw near and regional players look to consolidate support bases.
Support for the alliance has quickly emerged from within the Shiv Sena (UBT) camp. Senior party leader and MP Sanjay Raut expressed optimism, fueling enthusiasm among grassroots workers in traditional strongholds like Mumbai and Kolhapur. For many loyal Shiv Sainiks, the thought of the Thackeray brothers reuniting stirs deep emotion. “This is what Balasaheb Thackeray’s true followers want — both Thackeray brothers united,” said one party worker, echoing a sentiment that has gained momentum on the ground.
While the excitement is palpable, MNS leaders are maintaining a cautious distance. Senior MNS figure Sandeep Deshpande acknowledged the buzz but recalled how past alliance talks in 2014 and 2017 collapsed without resolution. “We’ll wait and see what Uddhav Thackeray actually announces,” he said, hinting at a degree of skepticism until formal steps are taken.
Interestingly, the proposal is also finding support beyond the two parties. NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule and Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe have welcomed the idea, viewing the potential alliance as a strategic response to counter the dominance of the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition. For opposition leaders, a united Thackeray front could inject fresh energy into the regional political narrative and provide a counterbalance to the current administration’s growing influence.
Meanwhile, leaders from the ruling alliance, including Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, have chosen to remain largely silent on the matter. Shinde declined to comment entirely, while Fadnavis and Pawar offered muted responses, indicating that even the ruling bloc is closely watching how this potential alliance unfolds.
As anticipation builds, Maharashtra’s political landscape stands on the brink of a major realignment. Uddhav Thackeray’s promise of “direct news” in the coming days has raised expectations, and many believe that a formal announcement of an alliance could alter the course of the upcoming elections. Whether the cousins can bridge their long-standing rift and present a united front remains to be seen, but one thing is certain — all eyes are now on Matoshree.
