MUMBAI : Two decades after they parted ways, following a power tussle, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray will be seen in a joint rally in Worli. The victory rally titled, ‘Awaj Marathicha’ (voice of Marathi) was planned by the two parties together after the ruling Mahayuti government rolled back its decision to make Hindi mandatory as a third language in the state’s primary schools recently, following a strong opposition both from Raj and Uddhav, and intellectuals from civil society.
Both parties have left no stone unturned to ensure a massive show of strength for the rally, which comes after the state government’s decision to withdraw resolutions related to the three-language policy.
While the NSCI Dome auditorium has a seating capacity of 7,000-8,000, leaders from both factions are anticipating a significantly larger turnout. To accommodate the expected overflow crowd, large LED screens have been strategically set up outside the auditorium, ensuring that those unable to enter the main venue can still witness the event. Marathi director-producer Ajit Bhure will anchor the proceedings, adding a cultural touch to the politically charged gathering.
A leader from Shiv Sena (UBT) told media outlets, “While the auditorium’s capacity is 8,000, the audience turnout is likely to be far more.” He added that comprehensive arrangements have been made to manage the crowd, including erecting a grand stage with the map of Maharashtra as a backdrop, proudly emblazoned with the slogan ‘Awaj Marathicha’ (Voice of Marathi). Approximately 6,000 chairs have been arranged inside, and tents have been set up around the Dome with screens propped high on footpaths to cater to the outer crowd.
This joint rally marks a rare moment of unity between the two cousins, who have largely been political rivals for two decades. The event is being seen as a powerful statement on Marathi identity and a celebration of what they term a “victory” against the perceived imposition of Hindi. The convergence of their supporters at the NSCI Dome is expected to create a significant buzz in Maharashtra’s political landscape, particularly with upcoming local body elections on the horizon.
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