The coming together of Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray for the BMC elections has triggered intense political debate in Maharashtra. Questions are being raised over whether sidelining Sharad Pawar and Congress could backfire by creating a triangular contest. Political analysts argue that in Mumbai, NCP’s influence is limited, while the Thackeray brand remains deeply rooted in the city and the MMR region. The reunion, after nearly 20 years, sends a strong message of Thackeray family unity to the Marathi voter base. With Mahayuti emerging stronger in recent elections and both Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS facing setbacks, the alliance is being seen as a political compulsion to consolidate Marathi votes. The BMC election is now being viewed as a crucial battle for the political survival of both cousins.


