Mumbai, April 19 (NationPress) In a pivotal turn of events, estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray on Saturday hinted at a readiness to put their past disagreements aside and come together for the larger objective of safeguarding Maharashtra's interests and maintaining the Marathi language.

Uddhav Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), and Raj Thackeray, founder of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), expressed strong opposition to the MahaYuti government's move to introduce Hindi as a mandatory subject from Classes 1 to 5 in both Marathi and English-medium schools.

Both leaders, addressing separate gatherings, indicated their willingness to collaborate on matters vital to the state's identity and culture -- especially at a time when Marathi has received classical language status from the BJP-led central government.

In a discussion with actor-director Mahesh Manjrekar, Raj Thackeray remarked, “The conflicts between Uddhav and myself are trivial -- Maharashtra is far larger than all of this. These disagreements are detrimental to the survival of Maharashtra and its people.”

He further stated, “Unifying is not challenging; it’s a matter of intent. This transcends personal ambitions or desires. We need to consider the broader perspective. All Marathi individuals across political lines should unite to establish a single party.”

Raj Thackeray differentiated his political choices from the rebellion led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. “I departed from Shiv Sena when MLAs and MPs were aligned with me. Even then, I opted to go solo as I could only operate under Balasaheb Thackeray. I had no issues collaborating with Uddhav. The question remains -- does the other party have the desire to collaborate with me?”

“If Maharashtra desires our unification, let its voice be heard. I do not allow my ego to obstruct such matters,” he added.

At a function of Bhartiya Kamgar Sena, Uddhav Thackeray echoed similar views. “I am prepared to set aside minor disputes. I urge all Marathi individuals to come together for the benefit of Maharashtra. However, there is a stipulation -- when we pointed out in Parliament that industries were relocating to Gujarat, if we had united then, we could have formed a government aimed at serving Maharashtra. We cannot keep shifting allegiances -- supporting one side today, opposing them tomorrow, and then reconciling again.”

“Anyone acting against Maharashtra's interests -- I will not welcome them, invite them to my home, or engage with them. Let this be established first, and then let us collaborate for Maharashtra,” he declared.

MNS general secretary Sandeep Deshpande appreciated the reconciliatory tone but raised a crucial question -- “Raj Thackeray aptly queried -- does the other side truly wish to unite? Until this is clarified, the dialogue remains incomplete. We all desire the best for Maharashtra. But do others share the same sentiment?”

Resonating with this sentiment, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council, Ambadas Danve stated, “As a Marathi manoos, it is essential for all factions to join forces. Whether it’s Uddhav or Raj, they are brothers. The political landscape may vary, but the bond remains. Numerous individuals are eager to mediate in this matter.