After more than two decades of political distance, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray reunited on a public stage at Mumbai’s NSCI Dome in Worli for a grand “Victory Gathering.”
The event marked a celebratory response to the Maharashtra government’s decision to withdraw the controversial three-language policy from primary schools.
Historic reunion for Marathi pride:
For the first time in years, the Thackeray cousins shared a stage—Uddhav proudly declared, “We’ve come together, and now we will stay united,” signalling a renewed alliance built on regional and cultural pride.
Not politics, but people:
Both leaders emphasised that the event wasn’t a political rally. “There will be no party flags—only Maharashtra is our agenda,” said Raj, positioning the event as a movement for the Marathi cause, not partisan gain.
Fierce opposition to Hindi imposition:
The Thackerays came down heavily on the government’s attempt to enforce Hindi as a third language in schools. Uddhav warned, “We will never allow Hindi to be forced upon Marathi people,” while Raj called the move unnecessary and abrupt.
Questioning PM Modi about government`s ignorance towards the farmers:
Uddhav questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence and priorities, remarking, “While farmers suffer here, he is being called the ‘Star of Ghana’ during foreign visits.”
Targeting language policy inconsistencies:
Raj questioned the logic of the policy, asking, “Why impose Hindi in schools when English is the language of the courts? Where is your three-language formula there?”
A strong message on Marathi identity:
Uddhav passionately asserted, “Maharashtra belongs to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and every proud Marathi. We must protect our language and identity at all costs.”
Warning against divide-and-rule:
Uddhav accused the BJP-led government of attempting to divide people along religious and caste lines, urging Maharashtrians to stay alert and united against such tactics.
Criticism of the BJP’s ‘Gundagiri’:
Describing the government`s push for Hindi as authoritarian, Uddhav said, “This government’s gundagiri over language will not be tolerated.”
Cultural roots over the schooling medium:
Raj responded to criticism about his family’s English-medium background by affirming, “Balasaheb Thackeray worked for an English paper but was always proud to be Marathi.” He stressed that one’s medium of education doesn`t determine one’s cultural allegiance.
A powerful political undercurrent:
While positioned as a cultural celebration, the event also carried a strong political subtext. With local elections nearing, the image of a united Thackeray front sets the stage for a renewed challenge to the ruling dispensation in Maharashtra.
