In a significant political development ahead of the crucial local body elections in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Saturday expressed openness to a potential alliance with the Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), citing the larger interest of the “Marathi manoos”.

Speaking to reporters, Raut said, “Uddhavji’s stand regarding an alliance with Raj Thackeray for the sake of the Marathi people is 'manase' and 'dil se' (from the mind and the heart).” In a clever wordplay, he linked the Marathi pronunciation of MNS — "Manase" — with the heartfelt intention behind the proposed unity.

The remarks come amid renewed speculation of reconciliation between estranged cousins Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, nearly two decades after Raj split from the undivided Shiv Sena in 2005 to form his own political outfit. The buzz intensified last month when both leaders made statements indicating willingness to set aside past grievances for the benefit of Marathi-speaking citizens.

Local body polls, including key municipal corporations like Mumbai, Pune, Thane, Nashik, and Nagpur, are scheduled later this year — making any alliance potentially significant.

However, caution still lingers on the MNS side. Senior party leader Sandeep Deshpande recently stated that Raj Thackeray would only consider such an alliance if the Shiv Sena (UBT) puts forward a serious proposal. “If the Shiv Sena (UBT) feels an alliance with the MNS is possible, they should come forward with a substantial proposal. Raj Thackeray will take a decision on it,” Deshpande said, while also recalling past attempts that ended in what he termed “betrayal.”