After a long gap of two decades, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray will appear together today. They will share the stage at a rally in Worli, Mumbai. The event, titled "Awaj Marathicha" (Voice of Marathi), is being organised by both Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS.

Rally Planned After Hindi Decision Rolled Back

The rally comes days after the Mahayuti government reversed its decision to make Hindi a compulsory third language in state primary schools. The rollback followed strong protests from both Uddhav and Raj, along with several civil society members. As a result, both parties found a common cause. This collaboration has sparked talk about a possible political alliance ahead of local body elections.

Big Crowds Expected at NSCI Dome

The rally will be held at the NSCI Dome in Worli. The hall can hold 8,000 people, but organisers expect more. So, they have set up LED screens and tents outside the venue. People who can't enter can still watch from outside.

Marathi filmmaker Ajit Bhure will anchor the event. MNS leader Yashwant Killedar said, “We have erected a grand stage with the map of Maharashtra in the background, headlined ‘Awaj Marathicha’... We expect people to come spontaneously. Traffic on Annie Besant Road may have to be stopped.”

Senior Leaders Handled Preparations

Both parties have worked hard to make the rally a success. Anil Parab from Sena (UBT) and Bala Nandgaonkar from MNS led the planning. Throughout the week, they held meetings with local leaders. They also checked arrangements personally. Local units have been asked to set up screens in different neighbourhoods so that more people can watch live.

Powerful Visuals and Messaging Across Mumbai

The organisers have put up banners showing Uddhav, Raj, and Bal Thackeray across Mumbai — especially in Lalbaug, Parel, Dadar, and Worli. Social media is buzzing with teasers showing the cousins as lions fighting hyenas. The message is clear: unity among Marathi people is power.

The banners read, “Who brings down the government to its knees? Marathi manoos” “Unity of the Marathi people is the need of the time and real strength for us.” MNS leader Kunal Manikar said, “The Marathi mandals have heeded our call. A Jai Jawan Govinda Mandal will form a human pyramid at the venue.”

Possible Political Alliance in the Works

Though the event is about Marathi pride, many believe it signals a political reunion. Sena (UBT) leader Kishori Pednekar said, “Though the rally is for the cause of Marathi, it could be the beginning of a renewed alliance between the cousins ahead of the local body polls.”

Party MP Vinayak Raut added, “People will come from across Maharashtra to see the two brothers together. Leaders from allied parties such as Jayant Patil of NCP (SP), and CPI and CPM will join us.”

Top Leaders of Allies to Skip the Rally

Even though allied parties support the event, their top leaders won’t attend. Sharad Pawar of NCP (SP) and Harshwardhan Sapkal of Congress will not be present. However, their representatives will attend the rally to show support.