The event at Mumbai’s NSCI Dome in Worli marked a celebratory response to the Maharashtra government’s decision to withdraw the controversial three-language policy from primary schools. Their shared platform, just ahead of local body elections, sent a significant message to both supporters and rivals
The event marked a celebratory response to the Maharashtra government’s decision to withdraw the controversial three-language policy from primary schools. Pic/ Ashish Rane
After more than two decades of political distance, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray reunited on a public stage at Mumbai’s NSCI Dome in Worli on Saturday for a grand 'Thackerays Victory Rally'
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 Thackeray 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.
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