Shiv Sena Resurges with Shankar’s Blessings: Shankaracharya Shree Avimukteshwaranandji Unites Raj and Uddhav

BENEATH THE SURFACE BY MAULIKK BUCH, 

July 20, 2025: A new chapter has begun in Maharashtra's political saga, with Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand playing a pivotal role in uniting the two factions of Shiv Sena led by Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray. This reunion has not only reinvigorated the party but also reignited the flame of Marathi Asmita (pride), a legacy championed by the late Balasaheb Thackeray.

Marathi Asmita Agitation Sparks Controversy

Balasaheb Thackeray had made Marathi Asmita the cornerstone of Shiv Sena's ideology. Reviving this ethos, Raj and Uddhav boldly declared from a public platform that they are ready to become "goons" to protect Marathi pride. However, this fiery rhetoric was followed by incidents of violence against non-Marathi merchants in Mumbai, creating an atmosphere of tension. The Gujarati community in Mumbai, in particular, felt threatened, leading to widespread fear and insecurity. These events have started tarnishing the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) image in Gujaratis across the world and Gujarat state. while the Gujarati community forms a significant support base for the party due to MODI-Shah duo.

Fadnavis' Humble Gesture and the Return of Balasaheb's Legacy

Devendra Fadnavis, once instrumental in splitting Shiv Sena, was compelled to hold a special meeting with Uddhav Thackeray, reportedly greeting him with a respectful namaskaram. This move is seen as a significant step toward reuniting Shiv Sena and restoring Balasaheb Thackeray's legacy, including the party's iconic bow-and-arrow symbol, to Uddhav's leadership. The reconciliation is also perceived as an attempt to repair the BJP's damaged image in Gujarat amid the ongoing unrest.

End of Agitation and a Potential Alliance

As soon as Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT) regains control of Balasaheb's legacy and the party's original symbol, it is widely believed that the agitation targeting non-Marathi communities will cease. Furthermore, there is growing speculation about a potential coalition government between Shiv Sena (UBT) and the BJP in Maharashtra. Such an alliance could bring stability to the state's volatile political landscape and help Shiv Sena reclaim its lost glory.

When Dharma Enters Politics

Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand's blessings and guidance have been central to this unification. He has emphasized that when dharma (righteousness) enters politics, even the mightiest leaders can falter. Some see this as a subtle hint at a potential decline in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's influence. The Shankaracharya's role not only strengthens Shiv Sena but also underscores the growing significance of religion and culture in Maharashtra's politics.

The Road Ahead

The resurgence of Shiv Sena and the revival of Marathi Asmita could reshape Maharashtra's political landscape. With Uddhav and Raj united, Shankaracharya's blessings, and the restoration of Balasaheb's legacy, will Shiv Sena reclaim its former glory? Will a potential alliance with the BJP bring stability to the state? These questions remain unanswered, but one thing is certain: the resounding cry of "Har Har Mahadev" is poised to echo once again in Maharashtra's political arena.