Maharashtra Day 2024: Date, History, Significance, And All You Need To Know

Maharashtra Day is celebrated every year on May 1 to mark the formation of the state in 1960, when it was carved out of the Bombay Presidency on linguistic basis.

Maharashtra Day is celebrated every year on May 1 to mark the formation of the state in 1960, when it was carved out of the Bombay Presidency on linguistic basis. Every year, this day is celebrated as a public holiday and enjoy with great pomp and fervour. A number of events like parades, cultural events and flag-hoisting ceremonies are organised in schools, colleges and government offices.

Why Maharashtra Day Is Celebrated:

The region comprising Maharashtra, Gujrat and a few others was mainly ruled by the Maratha Empire between the 17th and 19th centuries. After Independence, the Bombay Presidency was formed under the States Reorganisation Act, of 1956 that established state boundaries in India based on language, included present-day states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and parts of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Karnataka.

Despite this, the Bombay State, created under this act, included regions where various languages like Marathi, Gujarati, Kutchi, and Konkani were spoken. The Samyukta Maharashtra Samiti led efforts to split the Bombay State into two: one for Gujarati and Kutchi speakers and another for Marathi and Konkani speakers.

This movement led to the creation of Maharashtra and Gujarat states, sanctioned by the Bombay Reorganisation Act of 1960, passed by the Indian Parliament on April 25, 1960. The act became effective on May 1, 1960, hence the annual commemoration.

Thus, this day is a celebration of a hard-fought victory, after a number of protests for linguistic and cultural rights. The day also honours the sacrifices made by a number of individuals, including the leaders of the Samyukta Maharashtra Samiti.

Cultural Significance Of Maharashtra Day:

Apart from its hisotrical sigificance, Maharashtra Day also has rich cultural roots. It is an occasion to celebrate the cultural heritage and diversity of the state. 

The state has a rich history, marked by ancient empires, medieval dynasties, and a thriving heritage of art, literature, and music. From the grand forts of Pune to the lively streets of Mumbai, Maharashtra's cultural landscape is characterised by resilience, creativity, and innovation.

To celebrate Maharashtra Day, the state governement falicitates eminent personalities for their contributions to various fields like literature, art, etc. In addition, a huge procession at Shivaji Park in Dadar, Mumbai is conducted which signifies tradition, culture and history of the state.