Fadnavis, Thackeray Cousins Trade Jibes At Book Launch

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently shared the stage with estranged Thackeray cousins Uddhav and Raj at a book launch, trading playful jabs and self-deprecating jokes. The event was for the launch of Maharashtrachya Hasyaresha, a book on the history of Marathi political cartoons.

Devendra Fadnavis asked Raj Thackeray not to exaggerate his stomach in caricatures, joking that he had tried to reduce his stomach and hoped cartoonists would now leave him alone. Fadnavis also poked fun at his equation with Uddhav Thackeray, saying that before 2019, he would respond whenever Uddhav called him, but after 2019, Uddhav did not call.

Raj Thackeray is known for his caricatures, while Uddhav Thackeray is known for his photography. The two Thackeray cousins were joined on stage by Devendra Fadnavis, who was praised by Culture Minister Ashish Shelar for accepting Raj Thackeray's invitation to the book launch.

The BJP and undivided Shiv Sena parted ways in 2019 over the chief minister’s post, but the tension was set aside for the evening as the three politicians engaged in lighthearted banter. The event highlighted the importance of art and culture in bringing people together, even in the face of political differences.

## Why it matters The book launch and the subsequent exchange of jokes between Fadnavis and the Thackeray cousins is significant because it shows that despite their political differences, the three can come together and engage in a lighthearted manner. This is important in a political climate where divisions often seem insurmountable. The event also highlights the importance of art and culture in bridging these divides and bringing people together.

## What happens next It remains to be seen whether this newfound camaraderie will translate into a more collaborative political environment. However, for now, it is clear that the three politicians are capable of putting aside their differences and engaging in a positive and respectful manner. As the political landscape in Maharashtra continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this dynamic plays out in the future.