Warring Thackeray cousins meet again

It was bonhomie and back-patting time once again for the warring Thackeray cousins - Uddhav and Raj- at an unusual venue, the Jehangir Art Gallery, here Saturday.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray dropped in to view Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray's ongoing exhibition of photographs which has been drawing huge crowds, both celebs and commoners.

Warmly welcomed by Uddhav, Raj was taken around the exhibition hall where around 70 big and small photographs are on display, and given a brief explanation about some of the exhibits.

Raj, an acclaimed cartoonist himself, was visibly impressed and appreciated Uddhav's efforts and excellence in photography.

"We have grown up together and we have seen each other's talents over the years...we know the levels we have achieved in our respective fields," Raj told media persons.

"We both are from a family of artistes and have been pursuing our hobbies over the years," said a pleased Uddhav, referring to his father, the late Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray who was also a renowned cartoonist.

The two cousins met publicly for the first time since Nov 17 last year, when they were seen together to commemorate the second death anniversary of Bal Thackeray, at Shivaji Park.

Despite the public political posturing, the two cousins have always maintained that they enjoy excellent personal relations, are concerned for each other and rush when the other is in need.

A couple of years ago, Raj had stood beside an ailing Uddhav who had certain heart problems, and last year, Uddhav reciprocated when Raj's daughter met with a road accident. - IANS