The Shiv Sena-Bharatiya Janata Party alliance is ready for a new battle in Maharashtra – the assembly election on October 13.

Top leaders from both parties gathered in the Shanmukhanand Hall in Matunga, central Mumbai, on Wednesday to discuss the strategy for the crucial election.

While the meeting went well, with the alliance partners looking in tune with each other's ambitions, what came as a surprise to many was the new-look Bal Thackeray, Shiv Sena chief.

Thackeray, with a snow-white goatee, looked impressive.

But what made him go for such a drastic change in appearance?

Well, the answer was simple, and Thackeray gave it himself: "I have sustained a nick. Won't be able to shave my chin for a few days," he said.

Nobody should have a problem with that. When there are no new faces in Maharashtra politics, a new look is welcome.