What’s Behind the Thackeray Cousins' New Political Alliance Ahead of BMC Elections?

In a pivotal move for Maharashtra's political landscape, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray have officially united ahead of the BMC elections. This alliance, termed 'Manomilan', aims to consolidate the Marathi vote and poses a significant challenge to the current political dynamics led by Eknath Shinde and the BJP. With seat-sharing discussions underway and a focus on key municipal areas, the implications of this partnership could reshape the electoral landscape in Mumbai. Read on to explore the details of this strategic alliance and its potential impact.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 23, 2025, 12:13 IST

Thackeray Cousins Unite for BMC Elections

Mumbai: In a significant development ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, Uddhav Thackeray of Shiv Sena UBT and Raj Thackeray of MNS have officially formed an alliance. Sanjay Raut, a party MP, announced the partnership known as 'Manomilan' (Union of Hearts), highlighting that members from both parties are actively collaborating on the ground.

Raut explained that this alliance was solidified when the two cousins united against the introduction of Hindi as a medium of instruction from grade one in Maharashtra schools. He mentioned that the final arrangements for seat-sharing were completed recently, with an official announcement expected soon.

The MP confirmed that the groundwork for this coalition has been laid, and while coordinating across numerous municipal bodies is complex, the core agreement is in place.

As the nomination process for the municipal elections kicks off, discussions regarding key cities like Nashik, Pune, Kalyan-Dombivli, and Mira-Bhayandar have been finalized. Raut emphasized the importance of respecting the sentiments of party workers in Mumbai as they finalize seat exchanges, with candidate forms already being distributed.

He clarified that the focus has shifted from whether they will collaborate to how the seats will be allocated, asserting that there is no internal conflict regarding this distribution. Raut stated, "We have united from the heart."

The alliance was further solidified when both Thackeray cousins appeared together in July to oppose the state government's decision to introduce Hindi alongside Marathi and English in schools. Raut assured that there is clarity among party workers about the alliance.

Additionally, he mentioned ongoing discussions with Jayant Patil from the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) to coordinate efforts within the Maha Vikas Aghadi framework. While formal talks with Congress are currently paused, Raut acknowledged their recent local body election successes and hinted at potential future collaborations.

Raut also questioned the delay in finalizing alliances between Eknath Shinde and the BJP, as well as Ajit Pawar and the BJP, contrasting it with the swift progress made by Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS.

In Sewri, a consensus has been reached where the Thackeray faction (UBT) will contest two seats, while one seat is allocated to MNS. Despite ongoing negotiations over Ward No. 114 in Bhandup, both Uddhav and Raj Thackeray are reportedly working to resolve outstanding issues. The overall seat-sharing arrangement for Mumbai is nearing completion.

Observers note that the reunion of the Thackeray cousins, even if politically motivated, represents a pivotal moment in Maharashtra's political landscape. Historically, they have been on opposing sides of the ideological spectrum, but this strategic alliance aims to consolidate the Marathi vote, directly challenging the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the BJP.