Mumbai: Mumbai is bracing for a political showdown on Thursday, as the two rival factions of the Shiv Sena, led by Uddhav Thackeray and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, prepare to celebrate the party’s Foundation Day with parallel mega events in the city. This symbolic face-off marks yet another chapter in the ongoing tussle between the two groups, as both look to display dominance ahead of the crucial Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections.
Mega Events Held At Key Locations In City
The Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena will host its event at the NSCI Dome in Worli, while the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) has chosen the Shanmukhananda Auditorium in Sion for its celebrations. The competing venues reflect the deepening divide within the party that once stood united under Balasaheb Thackeray's leadership.
Teaser War Between Both Factions
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In the run-up to the events, both factions launched aggressive teaser campaigns on social media. Shinde’s faction released a cartoon featuring him walking alongside the party's iconic tiger symbol, carrying a saffron flag with the caption: “With Hindutva as our foundation, Maharashtra stands behind us.” The message appears aimed at claiming Bal Thackeray’s ideological legacy and appealing to the traditional Shiv Sena voter base.
In retaliation, the Thackeray faction dropped its own teaser reading: “The saffron will soar – a call of Hindutva. The Marathi identity will awaken. The voice of Thackeray will echo. A family celebration of the loyal and devoted.” The focus was clearly on continuity, loyalty and preserving the Thackeray brand.
The duelling events come at a critical juncture. The BMC, Asia’s richest civic body, has been without elected representatives since 2022, for the first time in its 137-year history. Traditionally, a Shiv Sena bastion, control over the BMC is a key political prize for both sides.
Both camps plan major announcements and speeches on Foundation Day. The Shinde group is expected to focus on its recent electoral successes and organisational changes. Meanwhile, the Thackeray faction will underline its alliance with the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), comprising the Congress and Sharad Pawar-led NCP and reinforce its grassroots mobilisation strategy. All eyes will be on Mumbai as the Sena vs Sena spectacle unfolds.
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