Mumbai: In a rare and emotional moment that has sparked fresh political buzz, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray visited Matoshree, the residence of his cousin and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, on the latter’s 65th birthday on Sunday. This marked Raj’s first significant visit to Matoshree in many years, making it a moment of both personal warmth and political curiosity.
Raj Thackeray’s unannounced departure from his residence early Sunday morning took even close aides by surprise. Accompanied by MNS leader Bala Nandgaonkar, Raj reached Matoshree to a rousing welcome by Shiv Sena workers stationed outside the gate.
In a rare gesture, MP Sanjay Raut personally received Raj at the entrance. What stood out even more was Uddhav Thackeray himself walking to the gate to welcome his estranged cousin — a departure from his usual protocol. The two leaders embraced warmly as chants and cheers echoed from the gathered crowd.
The visit comes just days after both leaders appeared on the same stage during the 'Marathi Pride Rally' in Worli, raising speculation about a possible political rapprochement ahead of the civic elections in Maharashtra. Raj presented Uddhav with a bouquet of red roses before both leaders greeted party workers from a small stage erected outside the house.
The much-anticipated meeting inside Matoshree, however, lasted barely 20 minutes, after which Raj quietly left for his residence without addressing the media. Despite the brevity, the visit was rich in symbolism and is being viewed as a potential thaw in their long-frosty relationship.
Later in the day, Uddhav Thackeray expressed happiness over Raj’s gesture, describing it as a heartfelt moment on a personal occasion.
As political watchers speculate whether this reunion will translate into a broader alliance, one thing is certain, the Thackeray cousins have rekindled public interest and possibly, old ties.
