Language politics rekindles Thackeray unity: A new twist in Maharashtra’s political landscape

Maharashtra's politics is often defined by deep-rooted rivalries and shifting alliances. In such an environment, very few developments have been both surprising and symbolically potent, such as the recent restructuring of ties between Thackerays - Uddhav and Raj.

Marathi identity once again at the centre

The trigger? An old but emotionally evergreen issue of the alleged neglect of the Marathi language in Maharashtra’s urban and administrative spaces. The recent controversy and political developments around the 'diminishing' prominence of Marathi language in the state, especially in urban centres, has reignited a linguistic pride movement and brought the estranged Thackeray cousins closer after nearly two decades.

Legacy of Bal Thackeray and the 2006 split

If we look into the history of Shiv Sena, Bal Thackeray built the party's political identity on the plank of “Marathi Manoos”. He championed the cause of protecting the interests of native Maharashtrians in a rapidly changing Mumbai (then Bombay). It was all happening under one roof where Thackeray cousins were working under one supremo, the Bal Thackeray.

Things changed in 2006 when Raj Thackeray split from the Shiv Sena and formed the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). Ever since, both parties vied for the same Marathi vote bank, often undercutting each other.

In 2022, Shiv Sena split further and Uddhav Thackeray had to settle with Shiv Sena (UBT) and the traditional party symbol went to the Eknath Shinde faction. Uddhav is fighting another political battle of rightful ownership of Bal Thackeray's legacy. This might be one reason which prompted the two leaders echoing similar concerns about Marathi being sidelined, not just symbolically but systematically.

A signage controversy that sparked a synchronised response

The recent controversy is the result of the reports suggesting BMC prioritising English and Hindi signage over Marathi in public places. Uddhav Thackeray condemned the move as an insult to Maharashtra’s cultural heritage. Raj Thackeray followed suit and demanded legislative guarantees for the use of Marathi in governance, education, and commerce.

This shared outrage from Thackeray cousins, despite being not coordinated, appeared strikingly synchronized. This alignment is more than coincidence with signals of a potential realignment of Maharashtra politics. At least a thematic convergence seems to be in motion, if not a formal alliance. Right from the beginning on this issue, both avoided attacking each other during public appearances, which is a departure from their usual combative rhetoric.

The union's impact in Maharashtra and its national implications w.r.t I.N.D.I.A. bloc

This coming together of Thackerays could significantly impact Maharashtra’s political dynamics. Both factions appeal to a similar demographic, urban and semi-urban Maharashtrians, who feel culturally marginalised in the state. This union which might be an official one in future will at least remain a non-hostile Thackeray front, could consolidate this fragmented vote, posing a serious challenge to the BJP, Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar-led NCP. With upcoming municipal elections and 2029 Assembly elections, such a consolidation could change the power equations in the state.

Interestingly, this could also have some symbolic effects at the national level as well. Any new force joining the Opposition is seen as a part of the broader political narrative which I.N.D.I.A. bloc is trying to project. Uddhav Thackeray is already a key member of the INDIA bloc. All this while, Raj Thackeray has traditionally maintained an independent stance. Some may say he has been ambiguous also with occasional support for BJP.

If the recent language politics creates an opportunity for Thackeray cousins to show a united face, it could strengthen the Opposition's anti-BJP narrative in the state. This could be especially potent in a political climate where the BJP is often accused of promoting Hindi at the expense of regional languages. Not to forget, there are similar sentiments in other states, especially Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Not an easy union: Personal and political hurdles remain

But this union of brothers is not that easy. Many hurdles remain. Both Raj and Uddhav project themselves differently. Raj is aggressive whereas Uddhav is measured. With their own contrasts, they compete for the same voter base, which makes a long-term alliance tricky, if not impossible. And not to forget, personal animosity, political ego, and wounds of past betrayals run deep among the family members and cadre. But politics, more often than not, is driven as much by perception as policy.

A powerful image, regardless of outcome

Even if it's for symbolism, the visual of two Thackerays standing on one stage, holding each other, speaking in unison on the same issue, resonates powerfully. Whether this leads to a formal political front or simply a moment of easing of hostility that reshapes voter sentiment, it is already a development with far-reaching consequences for both Maharashtra and Indian politics at large.