In a rare show of unity, Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray came together to celebrate Bhai Dooj 2025 with their sister Jaywanti Thackeray Deshpande in Mumbai. The emotional reunion marked the first joint celebration in over two decades, symbolizing renewed familial warmth amid Maharashtra’s dynamic political landscape.
A Festival of Bonds: Thackeray Brothers Reconnect with Sister Jaywanti on Bhai Dooj
Mumbai witnessed a heartwarming moment on October 23, 2025, as Raj Thackeray, chief of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), and Uddhav Thackeray, leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), reunited to celebrate Bhai Dooj with their sister Jaywanti Thackeray Deshpande at their family residence in Dadar. The occasion marked a significant thaw in relations within the iconic Thackeray family, long seen as politically divided.
Key Highlights from the Celebration:
Traditional Tilak Ceremony
Jaywanti performed the ritual tilak and aarti for both her brothers, a central tradition of Bhai Dooj that symbolizes the sister’s prayers for her brothers’ well-being and longevity.
The ceremony was intimate and steeped in familial warmth, with images capturing smiles and shared laughter.
First Joint Celebration in Over Two Decades
This was the first Bhai Dooj celebration involving both brothers in more than 20 years, making it a momentous occasion for the family and their supporters.
Uddhav’s visit to Jaywanti’s home was his first in 24 years, underscoring the emotional significance of the reunion.
Family Members Present
Uddhav was accompanied by his wife Rashmi Thackeray and sons Aaditya and Tejas, while Raj’s son Amit Thackeray also joined the gathering.
The presence of the younger generation added a hopeful note to the reunion.
Social Media Buzz
Photos and videos from the event quickly went viral, with many expressing joy at the family’s togetherness.
Political observers noted the symbolic importance of the reunion amid Maharashtra’s evolving political dynamics.
Cultural Significance
Known as Bhau Beej in Maharashtra, Bhai Dooj celebrates the sacred bond between siblings and is observed on the second day of the Shukla Paksha in Kartik month, concluding the Diwali festivities.
This Bhai Dooj celebration not only rekindled familial ties but also offered a rare glimpse of unity in a family that has long been central to Maharashtra’s political narrative.
Sources: Free Press Journal