With the Maharashtra elections approaching, the stakes have never been higher. As key players vie for control, this election is more than just a battle for power—it's a test of community influence and leadership legacies.

With two Shiv Senas in fray, and NS also eyeing a revival and contesting 27 seats, Marathi votes are likely to be split

Athawale said the Maratha quota factor, which affected the ruling alliance in the Lok Sabha polls, will not be a factor this time as the Shinde government has given 10% reservation to the community.

With the withdrawal deadline past, the Maharashtra Assembly election field is set, pitting the ruling Mahayuti alliance against the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi across 288 seats on November 20. High-stakes contests and significant local rivalries are expected,