In a move that has stirred the political landscape of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, two of the most influential and often opposing figures in the state, are set to join hands for a joint rally on July 6, 2025, in defence of the Marathi language. The rally, which was initially supposed to be held separately by the two cousins, will now be a united front against what both camps describe as the “imposition of Hindi” in Maharashtra’s school curriculum.

This dramatic political development was first confirmed by Sanjay Raut, a senior leader from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), through a bilingual social media post. Raut tagged Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, making it clear that the protest is aimed not just at state policies but also at the language priorities of the central government.

Rare Political Unity Over Language

The Thackeray cousins, once allies and now often rivals, have not shared a stage in years. Their political split had carved two distinctly different paths—Uddhav leading the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj forming the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). Yet, Marathi pride, the foundational ethos of the Thackeray brand of politics, has now emerged as the unifying thread that brings them together.

This joint decision came after a period of tension and planning. Initially, Raj Thackeray was scheduled to hold a protest rally on July 6, while Uddhav Thackeray had planned one on July 7. However, back-channel talks between the two parties led to the decision to merge the two events into a single massive rally, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the cause.

A Fight Against Hindi Imposition

At the heart of this joint protest is the growing concern among regional leaders about the promotion of Hindi in schools at the cost of regional languages like Marathi. According to both Shiv Sena (UBT) and the MNS, recent policy changes have allegedly resulted in Hindi being prioritised in school curriculums, sidelining Marathi in a state where it is the official language and an emotive symbol of regional identity.

Leaders from both camps, including MNS spokespersons, have emphasized the need for Marathi-speaking citizens to resist these policies. Their argument is that the Marathi language is being systematically diluted, and this needs to be stopped before it affects the cultural and educational identity of the next generation.

Raj Thackeray, known for his aggressive stance on linguistic and regional pride, has previously led multiple campaigns in favour of Marathi signboards, jobs for locals, and cultural preservation. In joining hands with Uddhav, he signals that the issue of language transcends political rivalries.

A Direct Message to Delhi

Sanjay Raut’s social media post also carried significant political undertones. By tagging Amit Shah and Devendra Fadnavis, the Shiv Sena leader made it abundantly clear that this was not just a protest about curriculum changes—it was a challenge to the Centre’s growing role in state affairs, especially where language and culture are concerned.

The phrase used by Raut, declaring that “the Thackeray name is synonymous with Marathi pride”, reminded audiences of the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray, the founder of the Shiv Sena, who built his political capital by fiercely defending the Marathi Manoos (Marathi identity). The joint rally is being pitched as a revival of that legacy, now jointly upheld by both sons of Maharashtra.

Political Reactions and Future Implications

While the joint rally is being hailed by supporters of both factions as a historic moment, it also signals a wider shift in Maharashtra’s political calculus. With Assembly elections on the horizon and the INDIA bloc preparing its electoral strategy, this collaboration could pave the way for further alliances in the name of regional and cultural unity.

Political analysts suggest that the language issue is being used not just as a cultural statement but as a strategic weapon to consolidate Marathi-speaking voters, especially at a time when national parties like BJP are pushing for Hindi as a unifying language across India. The rally could become a testing ground for a broader alliance or reconciliation between the Thackeray factions, with long-term implications.

The Rally: What to Expect

Set to take place on July 6, the rally is expected to draw massive crowds, especially from urban centres like Mumbai, Pune, Thane, and Nashik, where the language issue resonates strongly. The joint presence of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray is expected to create a powerful visual and political impact.

Posters, digital campaigns, and emotional appeals to Maharashtrian pride have already started making the rounds. Slogans like “Marathi Shikshanachi Garaj Ahe” (Marathi education is a necessity) and “Bhasha Hich Aamchi Oolkh” (Language is our identity) are gaining traction.

Security arrangements are being stepped up, given the high-profile nature of the rally and the volatile history between the two parties. Both MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT) cadres are coordinating to ensure peaceful but powerful mobilisation.

Conclusion

The July 6 rally, led jointly by Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, represents more than just a protest—it is a symbolic reunion driven by linguistic pride and cultural urgency. In a state where Marathi identity is both political currency and emotional lifeline, this rally is poised to reshape political narratives.

As Maharashtra watches this unexpected collaboration unfold, the rally could very well become a turning point in state politics, potentially realigning party dynamics, voter sentiments, and the role of regionalism in India’s federal structure.

Whether this Thackeray unity is a one-time convergence or the beginning of a new political chapter, Kannadigas, Tamilians, Bengalis, and others watching similar regional-language movements will be observing with interest. For now, all eyes are on July 6—when Marathi pride marches once again to centre stage.

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