The political heirs of Bal Thackeray, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, presented a show of unity at Shivaji Park in Mumbai to mark the death anniversary of the Shiv Sena founder. The event saw the two cousins, who have led separate political factions for years, sharing a public platform in a significant gesture.
A Show of Unity at the Memorial
The memorial service at Shivaji Park became the focal point for paying respects to the late Hindu Hriday Samrat. Uddhav Thackeray, the leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), and his cousin Raj Thackeray, who heads the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), were seen together, putting up a united front. This public appearance is being closely watched in Maharashtra's political circles, hinting at a possible thaw in their previously strained relationship.
Raj Thackeray's Tribute on X
Adding a digital dimension to the homage, Raj Thackeray took to the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. In his post, he made a powerful statement about his uncle's political legacy. Raj Thackeray stated that Bal Thackeray was the first leader to successfully build a full-fledged political party based on a movement rooted in linguistic pride. This acknowledgment underscores the foundational ideology of the Shiv Sena, which was built on the sons-of-the-soil sentiment and Marathi identity.
The event, held on November 17, 2025, served as a potent reminder of Bal Thackeray's enduring influence on the state's politics and the continued relevance of his core issues. The united front displayed by Uddhav and Raj Thackeray has sparked discussions about potential political realignments in Maharashtra.
