In a historic display of unity, thousands of Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers flooded the NSCI Dome in Worli on Saturday for a joint rally led by cousins Uddhav and Raj Thackeray.

The event, dubbed 'Awaj Marathicha' (The Voice of Marathi), marked their first shared public platform in nearly two decades, celebrating the state government’s rollback of two controversial resolutions introducing Hindi as a mandatory third language from Class 1 in Maharashtra schools. The atmosphere was charged as supporters, brimming with enthusiasm, stormed the venue, with some breaking through the main gate to secure their spots.

“The crowd’s energy was unstoppable,” a police official noted, explaining that additional barricades and a heavy police presence were deployed to manage the situation after the gate was briefly forced open. The authorities swiftly restored order, ensuring the event proceeded smoothly.

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The rally underscored a rare show of solidarity between the Thackeray cousins, whose political paths diverged years ago. Mumbai’s skyline, especially in Worli—Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray’s constituency—was adorned with hoardings and banners featuring Uddhav and Raj, urging them to stay united for the Marathi cause.

LED screens across Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) broadcast the event, amplifying its reach. Inside the packed NSCI Dome, the mood was electric, with workers chanting slogans in support of Marathi pride. The rally was a deliberate flex of political muscle by both parties, signaling their commitment to protecting regional identity. “This isn’t just a victory for Marathi but a reminder of our united strength,” a senior MNS leader remarked.

While the Congress, an ally of Shiv Sena (UBT) under the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition, opted out of the event, state Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal expressed support for the cause, opposing the imposition of Hindi in early education. NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil confirmed that either Supriya Sule or Jitendra Awhad would represent their party, following an invitation from MNS leader Bala Nandgaonkar.

Sharad Pawar, however, cited prior commitments and skipped the gathering. The 'Awaj Marathicha' rally not only celebrated a policy win but also hinted at a potential realignment in Maharashtra’s political landscape, with the Thackeray cousins stealing the spotlight.

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