Though Raj Thackeray's decision to split the Shiv Sena posed the biggest threat to the saffron outfit, Shiv Sena insiders swear that the relationship between Bal Thackeray and his estranged nephew continued to be affectionate. Raj, who had inherited his uncle's cartooning talent and mannerisms, quit the Sena in 2006, largely due to leadership disputes with cousin Uddhav.

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