Will the unity for Marathi identity remain unbreakable?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray united for Marathi identity.
- Victory against Hindi imposition celebrated.
- Emotional reactions from attendees highlighted community spirit.
- Importance of dialogue in politics emphasized.
- Rally marks a significant moment in Maharashtra's history.
Mumbai, July 4 (NationPress) Raj Thackeray, the founder of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), attended a joint rally on Saturday alongside his estranged sibling and Shiv Sena-UBT leader Uddhav Thackeray. This event was held to commemorate the state government's decision to abolish two resolutions regarding the introduction of Hindi from grade one. Thackeray expressed, "may this unity for Marathi identity remain steadfast forever. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved."
In a post on X, he stated: "The Marathi community succeeded in compelling the government to reconsider its stance on Hindi imposition, culminating in a triumphant gathering of Marathi individuals in Mumbai today. I regret not mentioning certain contributors during this event, and I apologize for that. Various Marathi news channels, newspapers, organizations dedicated to the Marathi cause, numerous pressure groups, and select artists stood resiliently against this imposition, and I extend my sincere congratulations and gratitude to them all. May this unity for Marathi identity remain steadfast forever. Thank you once again to all."
Shiv Sena-UBT MP Sanjay Raut commented, "We are joyfully celebrating today. It feels like a festival, and every Marathi household must be rejoicing. My family advised me to don a splendid coat for this occasion, reflecting the sentiments shared by many."
“I rose in defiance against the imposition of Hindi. Unity is crucial; we need to convey a lesson to those in power. It was my determination that fueled this movement against the adversaries of Maharashtra, leading to today’s victory rally,” Raut remarked.
When asked about the future of the Thackeray brothers' collaboration, Raut affirmed, "I am entirely confident. If it were otherwise, this event wouldn’t have occurred. Both families were present at the rally."
“Continuous dialogue between Raj Thackeray and myself played an essential role in this collaboration. Politics thrives on constructive conversations, even with those we disagree with. As a friend, a colleague, and a brother, I engaged in constant dialogue, which must persist,” he added.
“The adversaries of Maharashtra are in power, and it's time they take action. We are set to chant 'dethrone, Thackeray has come'. Who is Shinde, who is Rane? I credit Devendra Fadnavis for facilitating the unity of the Thackeray brothers,” Raut stated while intensifying his criticism against the BJP.
Additionally, Shiv Sena-UBT legislator Anil Parab, former Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar, party leader Sudhir Salvi, and MNS leader Bala Nandgaonkar were visibly emotional following the successful rally.
“Today marks a historic and golden moment. It’s an emotional occasion for the Marathi populace, a festival of sorts,” Parab noted, emphasizing the continued unity among the Marathi people. “The respect for the Marathi language remains paramount to me. I have been a Shiv Sainik since childhood, a loyal supporter of Balasaheb Thackeray. This moment holds significant meaning for those united by Balasaheb’s vision,” Parab reflected.
“This is a moment of sheer joy. We stand united with Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray. Our happiness is evident in our actions and words. This is an extraordinary moment for Shiv Sainiks... even if you strike water with a stick, the water doesn’t separate; the same blood that courses through Raj Thackeray’s veins flows in Uddhav Thackeray’s,” Pednekar expressed.
She recalled how the Marathi community united after the 1993 riots in Mumbai, showcasing their solidarity on the Marathi issue.