Fri Jan 23 13:29:47 UTC 2026: ### Thackeray Alliance Faces Strain as Raj Thackeray Hints at Rift on Bal Thackeray Centenary

The Story: As Maharashtra commemorates the centennial of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray’s birth anniversary, cracks are appearing in the recently formed alliance between his nephew Raj Thackeray and cousin Uddhav Thackeray. Raj Thackeray, the leader of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), has subtly signaled potential discord, threatening the stability of an alliance that ended a nearly two-decade-long feud between the cousins and their respective parties.

Key Points:

  • The primary event is Raj Thackeray’s hint of a rift with Uddhav Thackeray.
  • This occurs during the centennial celebration of Bal Thackeray, the founder of Shiv Sena.
  • The alliance between Raj and Uddhav ended a two-decade-long feud.

Critical Analysis:

The historical context provided offers a glimpse into the complex relationship between Raj and Uddhav Thackeray. The article from January 23, 2026, where Raj Thackeray states that not being able to meet Bal Thackeray was more painful than quitting Shiv Sena, reveals deep-seated emotions and perhaps unresolved issues that might be resurfacing despite the alliance. The backdrop of national political tensions, as indicated by the other news snippets (BRS leaders hitting out at CM, Congress drama, Trump’s lawsuit) may be adding further pressure on the Maharashtra political landscape and influencing the Thackeray alliance dynamics.

Key Takeaways:

  • The alliance between Raj and Uddhav Thackeray is fragile, despite its recent formation.
  • The centenary of Bal Thackeray’s birth may be exacerbating existing tensions within the family.
  • Historical context suggests unresolved emotional issues may be contributing to the current rift.
  • Political tensions at the national level could be impacting regional alliances.

Impact Analysis:

The potential dissolution of the alliance between Raj and Uddhav Thackeray could significantly reshape the political landscape of Maharashtra. It could lead to realignment of political forces, impacting upcoming elections and governance. The future of Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS will depend heavily on how these tensions are managed, and whether they can overcome these differences. This event series also questions the long-term viability of family-based political alliances when old grievances resurface.

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