Introduction 

We celebrate Maharashtra Day every year, and this year is no different. Every Indian must know the story behind this important holiday and what it represents. So, if you're still unsure how to make the most of Maharashtra Day 2024, this article is just for you.

When Is The Maharashtra Day 2024?

It is celebrated on May 1st every year (Image source: Wiki). 

Maharashtra Day is celebrated every year on May 1st. In 2024, it falls on a Wednesday.

Here's our summary chart if you also want to check out the rest of Maharashtra Public Holidays in India:

Why Is Maharashtra Day 2024 Celebrated?

It marks the day the Maharashtra state was formed (Image source: Wiki). 

History

Following the States Reorganisation Act of 1956, Bombay State included Marathi-speaking regions along with Gujarati-speaking areas. The merger sparked discontent among Marathi speakers who felt their language and culture were overlooked, leading to a strong regional movement called the Samyukta Maharashtra Andolan.

Rallies, marches, and hunger strikes were all involved as people joined the movement urgently demanding a separate state for Indians who speak Marathi. Despite earlier challenges (over 100 people lost their lives during the protests), the movement eventually gained significant support in 1957 and put further pressure on the central government.

Given the political circumstances and continued public pressure, the Indian government finally relented and passed the Bombay Reorganisation Act, which came into effect on May 1st, 1960. It divided Bombay State into two separate states: Gujarat and Maharashtra. 

With Mumbai as its capital, Maharashtra officially became a state for Marathi-speaking people.

Significance

Maharashtra Day marks the historical date of May 1st, 1960, when the Bombay State was divided based on language and led to the creation of the Maharashtra state. 

On this special occasion, people reflect on the state's progress since its formation and acknowledge recent advancements in agriculture, industry, infrastructure, education, and more. The holiday brings people together across all regions and social backgrounds, reinforcing a sense of shared identity as both a Marathi speaker and a citizen of Maharashtra.

12 Interesting Facts About Maharashtra & Maharashtra Day 

1. Maharashtra houses India's most extensive highway network, with 18 highways covering 17,757 kilometres in total.

2. Over the past twenty years, Maharashtra has been a magnet for about 30% of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India, significantly contributing over 15% to the nation's GDP and 20% to its exports. According to The Times of India, Maharashtra is predicted to become a $2 trillion economy by 2035. Furthermore, it proudly hosts six UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the most of any Indian state.

3. Maharashtra is home to 7 Conservation Reserves, 6 National Parks, and 49 breathtaking wildlife sanctuaries. 

History enthusiasts will also marvel at the 800 caves scattered across 65 different sites in the state, some dating back as far as 1500 to 2000 years ago. Plus, with an impressive 450 forts, Maharashtra is indeed a treasure trove of historical landmarks.

4. Geographically, Maharashtra is a diverse landscape, ranging from the lush Konkan region along the Western Ghats to the majestic Satpura hills in the north, all framed by the expansive Deccan plateau. 

5. Education-wise, Maharashtra leads the race with 958 ITIs and 991 Engineering & Management Colleges, translating to the highest calibre of talent in the country.

6. And when it comes to connectivity and digitalization, Maharashtra doesn't disappoint, boasting 133,000,000 telecom subscribers and a staggering 97,000,000 internet subscribers. 

7. As part of the celebrations, companies, offices, and schools under the purview of both the State & Central Governments are granted a public Maharashtra Day holiday. 

8. Maharashtra Day is typically marked by ceremonies, political speeches, and various private and public events that honour the state's history and traditions. A parade is held annually on this day, followed by speeches from the Governor of Maharashtra.

9. The Wiki page of Marathi language was introduced on Maharashtra Day in 2003.

10. In 2011, the state celebrated the Golden Jubilee of Maharashtra Day with festivities held across various regions on May 1st.

11. On Maharashtra Day, Indians within the state are restricted from purchasing alcohol, although this rule does not apply to foreigners.

12. Maharashtra Day sees the launch of numerous new schemes and projects by both the state private sector and government. 

How Indians Celebrate Maharashtra Day

Streets in India become more festive than ever on this day (Image source: Flickr). 

Cultural Extravaganza

People dress up in vibrant Maharashtrian clothing like dhotis, lungis, sarees, and pagdis. 

Cultural programs come alive with energetic Maharashtra folk dances like Lavani and Lezim. Lavani, a dance form traditionally performed by women, narrates stories through expressive movements and colourful costumes; on the other hand, Lezim is a group dance performed by men involving synchronised stick movements and rhythmic beats.

The air vibrates with the sounds of Powada, a popular genre of Marathi ballads known for their historical narratives and valorous themes. Traditional art forms like Warli paintings, depicting scenes from daily life and mythology, are showcased everywhere on the streets and in museums. 

Public Events and Festivities

Streets in India become more festive than ever on this day, awash in vibrant parades featuring floats depicting Maharashtra's history, culture, and development. People line the streets to cheer and wave flags.

Officials (e.g., the Governor) deliver speeches to commemorate Maharashtra Day and the state's achievements. Public gatherings and cultural events take place in major cities like Mumbai and Pune.

Holiday and Food

As Maharashtra Day is a public holiday, most schools, colleges, and offices are closed so families and friends can spend time together.

People indulge in traditional Maharashtrian sweets like Puran Poli (flatbread stuffed with lentils and jaggery) and Shrikhand (a sweet yoghurt dish). Restaurants also offer special menus featuring regional delicacies, though note that the sale of liquor to Indians (not foreigners) is entirely prohibited on this occasion. 

Where To Celebrate

There are many great places to celebrate Maharashtra Day in India, but here are a few of the most popular options:

Mumbai: As the capital of Maharashtra, Mumbai naturally has some of the biggest and most elaborate celebrations for Maharashtra Day. You can expect to see large parades, cultural performances, and special events held throughout the city!

Pune: Pune is another great city for annual Maharashtra Day celebrations. Given its rich history and culture, it's unsurprising that many events and activities are planned for this significant holiday.

Aurangabad: Aurangabad is home to some of Maharashtra's most famous historical sites, such as the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. The city also has a pretty large Marathi population, so large-scale celebrations on Maharashtra Day have long been the norm.

Nashik: A holy city located on the banks of the Godavari River, Nashik is most famous for its temples and Kumbh Mela (a mela for the Hindu religion), held every 12 years in Maharashtra. The beautiful celebrations on Maharashtra Day are totally worth a spot in your camera memory. 

Kolhapur: Kolhapur is situated in western Maharashtra, drawing lots of attention thanks to its magnificent palaces, temples, and spicy Kolhapuri cuisine. 

Maharashtra Day Songs

These songs express immense pride for the state's rich culture (Image source: Flickr). 

Jai Jai Maharashtra Maza

"Jai Jai Maharashtra Maza" (which means "Victory to My Maharashtra!") is the official state song of Maharashtra, expressing immense pride for the state's natural beauty and rich, strong culture. 

Raja Badhe penned the lyrics, with music by Shrinivas Khale and performed by Krishnarao Sable (popularly known as Shahir Sable). 

Dhwaj Vijayacha Unch Dhara Re

"Dhwaj Vijayacha Unch Dhara Re" (The Victorious Flag Flies High) showcases Indians' great pride in the state's cultural identity, with the image of the flag flying high repeated throughout the verses to deepen the sense of unity.

The song is credited to singers Jaywant Kulkarni and Pt. Sharad Jambhekar, with music by Pt. Hridaynath Mangeshkar, one of India's most legendary composers and singers. 

Shoor Amhi Sardar

Another masterpiece by Hridaynath Mangeshkar, "Shoor Amhi Sardar," translates to "We are Brave Sardars." 

"Sardar" refers to a leader or warrior. Given that Mangeshkar released the song in 1963 (just 3 years after the formation of Maharashtra), it's clear the lyrics serve as a tribute to Maratha warriors and their long history of resilience. 

Conclusion

Maharashtra Day 2024 is just around the corner, promising hundreds of festivities and events to enjoy with your loved ones! We have provided plenty of celebration ideas for this special occasion; if you need more advice, feel free to contact us!