Raj Thackeray steps into Matoshree after 13 years; wishes Uddhav on birthday, reignites alliance hopes
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray visited Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday at his residence, Matoshree, to extend birthday greetings, further fueling speculation about the evolving equation between the once-estranged Thackeray cousins.
The meeting, which came on Uddhav Thackeray’s 65th birthday, was widely shared on social media by Shiv Sena (UBT), with the caption, “Maharashtra Navnirman Sena president Rajsaheb Thackeray extended birthday greetings to party chief Uddhavsaheb Thackeray."
The visit follows their public show of unity earlier this month during the ‘Awaz Marathicha’ rally in Mumbai, where they protested the Maharashtra government’s now-withdrawn move to impose Hindi as a third language in state schools. Sharing a hug on stage, Uddhav declared, “We have come together to stay together,” indicating a possible long-term alignment.
While the reunion of the Thackeray brothers drew political attention, birthday wishes also poured in from prominent national leaders.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi extended warm greetings on social media, praising Uddhav’s commitment to Maharashtra.
“Heartfelt birthday wishes and congratulations to Shiv Sena President and INDIA alliance partner Uddhav Thackeray ji. May you stay healthy, live long, and together we will fight for the interests and rights of the people of Maharashtra,” he posted on X.
Joining in, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin lauded Thackeray’s stand against Hindi imposition.
"Birthday greetings to @ShivSenaUBT_ President, Thiru. Uddhav Thackeray.Your bold resistance to #HindiImposition and your firm stand to uphold Maharashtra's identity have united the Marathi people in standing up for their language. Wishing you strength as you continue to defend federalism and linguistic dignity," Stalin wrote on X.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut also posted a heartfelt note, “Shiv Sena chief, my friend Uddhav Thackeray, who stands firm like a lighthouse in every storm, heartfelt birthday wishes to you! Jai Maharashtra!”
ANI inputs