Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 29: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray shared the stage at a literary event in Mumbai on Thursday, drawing attention as political tensions between the ruling and opposition parties continue over issues including the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and a project in Karjat.

The leaders attended the launch of Maharashtrachya Hasyarekha, a book edited by cartoonist Prashant Kulkarni, at an event in Dadar. Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar was also present.

The gathering brought together leaders who have been political rivals and have frequently criticised one another in recent times. Their cordial presence at the same event surprised many observers, particularly amid the ongoing political exchanges in the state.

Addressing the gathering, Raj Thackeray responded to questions about how leaders who criticise and oppose one another politically could appear together on the same platform.

He said some occasions call for political differences to be set aside, citing platforms associated with art, music and weddings as examples.

“Some platforms require us to bury or set aside political differences and come together. That platform may be one of art, one of music or one associated with a wedding,” Raj Thackeray said.

He added that setting aside disagreements on such occasions was part of Maharashtra’s culture and tradition, despite differences in political views and criticism.

The event highlighted how cultural and artistic platforms can bring political rivals together even as disagreements continue in the political arena.