In a surprising political turn, Uddhav Thackeray (Shiv Sena–UBT) and Raj Thackeray (MNS) have put aside their two-decade-long rivalry to launch a joint protest march on July 5 in Mumbai. The protest is aimed at opposing the mandatory inclusion of Hindi from Class 1 under Maharashtra‘s new three-language policy. Their collaboration signals a significant shift in regional politics and renewed efforts to protect Marathi cultural and linguistic identity.

 Background: Fadnavis Claims Uddhav Approved Hindi Mandate

Just days before this announcement, former Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis claimed that Uddhav Thackeray, during his tenure, had signed off on a proposal recommending compulsory Hindi in schools. Fadnavis used the claim to defend the current policy and dismiss the outrage.

However, Thackeray has strongly denied this, and the joint protest action now positions the anti-Hindi mandate campaign in direct conflict with Fadnavis’s narrative.

 First Thackeray Alliance in 20 Years

Despite parting ways nearly 20 years ago, Uddhav and Raj have reunited over what the news describes as a “language emergency” in Maharashtra schools, forming a united front for the first time in two decades .

Sources say the protest route will cover Girgaon Chowpatty to Azad Maidan in Mumbai’s south—an area rich with symbolic resonance for Marathi protests .

 What Thackeray Leaders Have Declared

• Sanjay Raut (Shiv Sena–UBT) announced on social media:

  “There will be one united march against the imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra schools. Jai Maharashtra!” timesofindia.indiatimes.com+5ndtv.com+5indianexpress.com+5.

• Raj Thackeray explained his original July 6 march had clashed with Ashadhi Ekadashi, so the date was moved to July 5 to ensure broader attendance .

• Uddhav Thackeray had initially planned to support a civil society protest on July 7 at Azad Maidan, organized by activists like Deepak Pawar, but agreed to the July 5 date to consolidate efforts .

 Key Objectives of the Protest—What They’re Demanding

1. Hindi should not be made mandatory for Classes 1–5.

2. Preserve Marathi as the central medium, with Hindi remaining strictly optional.

3. Reverse any perceived step toward a “language emergency” that undermines Marathi identity .

4. Reinforce claims that the policy represents a political encroachment rather than an educational reform .

5. Send a unified message ahead of upcoming civic polls, building momentum for Marathi-centric leadership .

Political Stakes & Regional Ramifications

• Language policy has surfaced as a flashpoint for regional autonomy and cultural preservation in Maharashtra.

• Thackeray’s joint action may also serve as a strategic platform ahead of the municipal (BMC) elections, showcasing broad public support .

• Sharad Pawar’s NCP (SP), while supporting the cause, has urged not to put pressure on public figures (e.g., athletes, actors) to take a stand .

 State Government’s Policy & Clarifications

The Fadnavis government recently issued a circular stating that Hindi will be taught in Classes 1–5 under the NEP 2020 three-language framework, but attempts to soften public backlash by labeling it “generally mandatory.” According to the guidelines, if at least 20 students opt for another Indian language, alternatives should be accommodated via online classes or tutors .

Fadnavis maintains that teaching Marathi remains compulsory while Hindi remains optional, and no student will suffer for not learning Hindi .

 Protest Details & Next Steps

• Date & Time: 10:00 AM, July 5, 2025.

• Route: Walker from Girgaon Chowpatty to Azad Maidan.

• Format: Non-political, open to all, and free of party flags—described as a “Marathi cultural solidarity” rally .

• Invitations: Encouraging participation from politicians, academics, artists, and the wider Marathi community .

 Why This Protest Matters

• Demonstrates a clash between regional and national language policies—an ongoing debate in Indian education.

• Reflects the emotional and cultural stakes in preserving the Marathi language within its own state.

• Marks a rare political reconciliation between two prominent Thackeray factions.

• May influence voter sentiment ahead of civic elections by projecting a united stance in defense of Marathi heritage.

The July 5 protest represents a pivotal moment in Maharashtra’s language politics—one that blends cultural defense with emerging electoral strategy. As Uddhav and Raj Thackeray join forces, the protest could set the tone for wider political alignments ahead of critical civic elections. It places the spotlight on the delicate balance between preserving regional identity and implementing national educational norms.

Stay tuned to KKNLive for full coverage—live updates, expert analysis, public sentiment, and post-protest implications in the state’s political narrative.