Can there be a Shiv Sena without the Thackerays? Ever since Eknath Shinde, the powerful mass leader from Thane and ex-minister in the Maha Vikas Aghadi government, rebelled against the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray, a question is being asked about Shinde being the next party chief. With over 35 of the Shiv Sena’s MLAs extending support to Shinde, there could be a vertical split in the party founded by Uddhav’s father Balasaheb Thackeray. But while the rebel Sainiks succeeded in their coup, it is imperative to note that both Uddhav and Shinde have laid claim to Balasaheb’s legacy. They seek legitimacy only through the supreme leader who died several years ago, but his name still dominates the party. Precisely therefore, while Uddhav might have exited, it is still unlikely that scores of Shiv Sainiks in Maharashtra would soon bow in obeisance to Shinde.