In a move that has sent shockwaves through the political corridors of Mumbai, the estranged Thackeray cousins—Raj Thackeray of the MNS and Uddhav Thackeray of the Shiv Sena (UBT)—have buried the hatchet, if only temporarily, to confront what they jointly describe as a “disgusting” Maharashtra political auction. Their recent joint rally at the historic Shivaji Park wasn’t just a political event; it was a raw, emotional plea to reclaim the soul of their state from the clutches of opportunism and betrayal.
Table of Contents
- The Shivaji Park Summit: A Historic Reunion
- What is the “Maharashtra Political Auction”?
- Balasaheb’s Shadow: A Legacy in Peril
- The Strategic Alliance: What’s Next for BMC Elections?
- Conclusion: A Fight for the Soul of Maharashtra
- Sources
The Shivaji Park Summit: A Historic Reunion
On January 11, 2026, Shivaji Park in Dadar—a ground synonymous with the Thackeray family’s political legacy—witnessed a spectacle not seen in decades. Raj and Uddhav Thackeray, who have led rival parties for nearly two decades, stood on the same stage . The air was thick with nostalgia and a palpable sense of urgency. Both leaders, in their own distinct styles, delivered a scathing indictment of the current political climate. Raj Thackeray, known for his fiery oratory, didn’t mince words, calling the ongoing political maneuvering a “disgusting” display of greed and power hunger. His most poignant statement, however, was a somber reflection: “It’s good Balasaheb isn’t here, he would have been distressed.”
What is the “Maharashtra Political Auction”?
The term “Maharashtra political auction” has become a popular shorthand for the wave of mass defections and cross-carpeting that has defined the state’s politics since the 2019 crisis. The problem has only intensified in the lead-up to the 2026 BMC elections. An analysis of the 2025 local body elections revealed a startling trend: of the 46 losing candidates from the MVA alliance, a staggering 46 switched parties, with 26 joining the BJP and 13 moving to the Ajit Pawar-led NCP .
This isn’t just about changing party flags; it’s a systemic issue enabled by legal loopholes and a lack of political will to enforce the anti-defection law. The recent civic body elections in places like Ambernath and Akot have shown how easily elected representatives can be poached, often without any immediate consequence . Even Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has publicly lamented the erosion of political ideologies, where parties are now focused more on poaching leaders than on public service .
Balasaheb’s Shadow: A Legacy in Peril
At the heart of this joint stand is a fierce battle to protect the legacy of their patriarch, Balasaheb Thackeray. Balasaheb was more than a politician; he was an ideology built on Marathi pride, Hindutva, and an uncompromising, direct style of politics [[18], [20]]. Both Raj and Uddhav accused their rivals of attempting to erase the ‘Thackeray’ name from the political map, using money and muscle power to buy loyalty instead of earning it through ideology.
Uddhav Thackeray, in particular, emphasized that this moment is about starting afresh. He argued that the current political landscape, where personal gain trumps public good, is a direct betrayal of everything his father stood for. By uniting, even symbolically, the cousins are sending a clear message: the Thackeray legacy is not for sale. This sentiment resonates deeply with their core voter base, who feel alienated by the transactional nature of modern politics .
The Strategic Alliance: What’s Next for BMC Elections?
While the emotional appeal is strong, the practical implications of this alliance are crucial for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls. The joint rallies are a strategic masterstroke aimed at consolidating the traditional Marathi voter base that has been fragmented between the two factions .
Here’s a breakdown of what this alliance could mean:
- Consolidated Vote Bank: By presenting a united front, they can prevent a split in the pro-Thackeray vote, which has been a key reason for their individual losses in recent years.
- Moral High Ground: They position themselves as the guardians of ethical politics against the backdrop of widespread defections, appealing to voters disillusioned with the current system.
- Long-Term Uncertainty: It remains to be seen if this is a temporary electoral pact or a sign of a deeper, lasting reconciliation. For now, the focus is squarely on the BMC elections .
For more on the intricacies of Mumbai’s civic governance, see our deep dive on [INTERNAL_LINK:bmc-elections-history].
Conclusion: A Fight for the Soul of Maharashtra
The joint appearance of Raj and Uddhav Thackeray is far more than a political stunt. It is a desperate, yet powerful, attempt to reset the narrative in Maharashtra. By condemning the “Maharashtra political auction” and invoking the spirit of Balasaheb, they are challenging the very foundation of the current power structure. Whether this alliance can translate into electoral success or remains a symbolic gesture is a question for the future. But one thing is certain: the people of Maharashtra are watching, and they are tired of being mere spectators in a game of political musical chairs. This movement offers them a chance to reclaim their voice and their state’s political integrity.
Sources
- Times of India. “‘It’s good Balasaheb isn’t here, he would have been distressed’: Raj Thackeray on Maharashtra’s current scenario.” Accessed January 24, 2026. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/…
- Various news reports on the joint rally. [[1], [3], [7]]
- Analysis on Maharashtra defections. [[11], [12], [14]]
- Historical context on Balasaheb Thackeray’s ideology. [[18], [20], [23]]
- Election Commission of India. “Local Body Election Results 2025.” https://eci.gov.in