India, July 6 -- A public reunion between estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray in Mumbai on Saturday after 20 long years has triggered a political firestorm across Maharashtra. The event, hailed as historic by their supporters, drew sharp reactions from the ruling BJP-led Mahayuti faction.

Attacking the display of Thackeray solidarity, deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde said, "Raj reflected genuine concern for the Marathi language. In contrast, Uddhav's speech was filled with bitterness, jealousy, and a desperate craving for power and position."

Shinde further claimed that the purpose of the rally, which was to invoke 'Marathi pride', was diminished, saying, "He (Uddhav) raised no issue concerning the Marathi Manoos. Se...