Published on March 25, 2026
In a poignant farewell ceremony, Maharashtra’s Legislative Council bid adieu to nine outgoing members, a moment that became a platform for an unexpected exchange between former Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Uddhav Thackeray. The event, held at Vidhan Bhavan, was marked by a blend of warmth and nostalgia, laying bare the underlying camaraderie that once defined their political rapport.
Fadnavis, who served as the Chief Minister from 2014 to 2019 under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), reflected on his time working alongside Thackeray, once his ally in the Shiv Sena. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of collaborative governance and mutual respect. “Politics aside, we shared significant moments and challenges during our tenures. I will always appreciate the efforts made on their behalf,” Fadnavis stated, a nod to the collective experiences they shared.
Thackeray, speaking in a tone that resonated with fondness, responded in kind. He acknowledged the vast differences that had emerged in their political paths since their split during the state’s political turmoil in 2019. “While our paths diverged, there remains a level of respect for each other’s journey. We may have our differences, but there are no hard feelings today,” he asserted, his words encapsulating a sense of closure for their shared past.
Both leaders took the opportunity to express their hopes for the future of Maharashtra, calling for unity and cooperation among lawmakers as they move forward. Their friendly exchanges and light-hearted jabs reflected a rare but refreshing moment in a political landscape often marked rivalry.
As the ceremony progressed, the attending members reminisced about the contributions of the outgoing councilors, fostering an atmosphere of respect and gratitude. Anecdotes and reflections flowed freely, illustrating the diverse experiences and impacts each member had on the legislative process.
The departure of these nine council members marks a significant transition for the Legislative Council, a body that plays a crucial role in the functioning of Maharashtra’s democracy. Their farewell served not only as a chance to honor their service but also as a reminder of the fragility and complexity of political relationships.
As the event concluded, the sentiment among the attendees was clear: despite the political rivalries and ideological differences, the bonds formed in the halls of governance could transcend time and conflict. The friendly exchange between Fadnavis and Thackeray might be a rare glimpse into the potential for cooperation in the evolving landscape of Maharashtra’s politics.