Following their recent alliance in the BMC elections, Shiv Sena-UBT President Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena Chief Raj Thackeray will come together publicly on January 23, the birth anniversary of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. This joint appearance is significant as it marks the beginning of Bal Thackeray’s 100th birth year.
This event will be the first major joint gathering since the BMC elections on January 15, 2026. Despite the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance winning a majority in those elections, the Thackeray brothers are expected to use this platform to reveal their future plans for the upcoming statewide municipal and local body elections. In the BMC polls, Shiv Sena-UBT secured 65 seats, while MNS won six seats.
The reunion of the ‘Shiv Shakti’ alliance on January 23 is being closely monitored for various reasons. The Thackeray brothers are indicating that their alliance is not just for one election but is a long-term commitment to Marathi politics. Uddhav emphasized that their alliance with Raj is not temporary and is focused on the long-term battle for the Marathi people and Mumbai’s dignity.
Uddhav stressed that the fight for the Marathi people’s respect is ongoing and will continue until they receive the recognition they deserve. Despite not achieving the dream of electing a Shiv Sena (UBT) Mayor this time, Uddhav highlighted that the loyalty of grassroots workers cannot be compromised. Raj Thackeray also signaled a long-term ideological struggle by emphasizing the importance of the fight for Marathi identity and the Marathi people.
By commemorating Bal Thackeray’s centenary together, the cousins aim to consolidate the original Shiv Sena vote bank, which has been divided since the 2022 party rebellion, and uphold the legacy of the “Brand Thackeray.” Political analysts anticipate a joint manifesto or a common minimum program announcement by the Thackeray brothers for the remaining 2026 local body elections across Maharashtra, including the zilla parishads and panchayat samitis elections scheduled for February 5 and counting on February 7.
