Maharashtra Day
Maharashtra Day, also known as Maharashtra Din or Maharashtra Diwas, is celebrated on May 1 every year. It commemorates the formation of the independent state of Maharashtra on May 1, 1960. Before this, it was a part of the Bombay Presidency which consisted of parts of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Southern India.
Maharashtra Din is a public holiday in Maharashtra so most schools, colleges, and offices remain closed.
Maharashtra Day coincides with International Workers Day, also known as May Day which takes place on May 1 every year as well.
History of Maharashtra Day- How Maharashtra Became An Independent State
64 years ago on May 1, 1960, Maharashtra was finally carved out of the Bombay Presidency for the Marathi-speaking people.
After India's independence from British rule and the consequent implementation of the Indian Constitution, the State Reorganization Act was passed in 1956. According to this act, the geographic boundaries of the country were redrawn on the basis of the majority language which gave rise to new states.
During this time, the Bombay Presidency consisted of many diverse cultural groups including Marathis, Gujaratis, Konkanis, and Kutchi. The Samyukta Maharashtra Movement and the Mahagujarat movement were led by the Marathis and Gujaratis respectively demanding their own independent state.
Their demand was finally implemented on May 1, 1960, when Bombay was divided into Maharashtra and Gujarat, giving rise to Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day.
Towards Unified Maharashtra: The Samyukta Maharashtra Movement and 106 Martyrs
The path to an independent and unified Maharashtra state wasn't an easy one. The fight went on for nearly 5 years.
Right after India's independence, there was a popular demand for a separate Maharashtrian state based on language. It would include Mumbai, Goa, Parbhani, Nipani, Karwar, Belgaum and Varhad. When this was denied, the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement was formed.
Many commissions were proposed and implemented all of which were against the inclusion of Mumbai and major Marathi-speaking regions in Maharashtra. This included the Dhar Commission, J.V.P. Commission, and Tri-state scheme.
Many workers and people protested the Tri-state scheme and the consequent decision of Jawaharlal Nehru to make Mumbai a Union territory. Lathi charges, tear gas, and open aggression and violence broke out. 106 people sacrificed their lives for the cause of a unified and independent Maharashtra.
Celebrate Maharashtra Day
Parades, flag-hoisting ceremonies, and vibrant cultural events can be seen on Maharashtra Din.
Every year, an official parade takes place at Shivaji Park in Dadar. It is attended by many important officials such as the Maharashtra Governor Shri Ramesh Bais, state reserve police officers, Mumbai Police, Home guards, BMC Force, traffic police, and so on.
The parade also includes traditional dancers, floats, and marching bands.
The state government also bestows prestigious awards in fields such as literature, education, medicine, sports, agriculture, and more upon deserving individuals.
This is a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by the people for the creation of Maharashtra and celebrate the rich Marathi culture and its progress throughout the years.
