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Maharashtra and Gujarat Day are observed every year on May 1. (Images: Shutterstock)
Happy Maharashtra Day And Gujarat Day Wishes: International Labour Day is observed globally on May 1 every year. But, two Indian states, Maharashtra and Gujarat, mark this occasion as Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day, respectively, to honour the founding of their states, giving it particular significance for them. This day, which honours the rich traditions and heritage of these regions, is extremely important to the local population, who use it to commemorate their distinct histories, cultural identities, and national contributions.
Celebrated with great fervour, the day is commemorated with seminars, cultural events, and contests to recognise the founding and development of the state. The day is called Gujarat Gaurav Din or Gujarat Sthapana Divas in Gujarat, and Maharashtra Diwas or Maharashtra Din in Maharashtra.
Both Gujarat Day and Maharashtra Day are occasions that celebrate the history, development, and rich cultural legacy of these states, emphasising their unique identities and contributions to India.
On May 1, Maharashtra commemorates the state’s formation in 1960, marking an important turning point in its history. The people of Maharashtra, who have a strong connection to the history and culture of their state, commemorate this day with tremendous pride and excitement.
When the Indian National Congress (INC) passed a resolution to create linguistic states at the start of the 20th century, the call for a separate state for Marathi-speaking people began. But it wasn’t until 1947, when India gained its independence, that this ambition gained momentum.
To promote a separate state for Marathi-speaking people, the Samyukta Maharashtra Samiti (United Maharashtra Committee) was founded in 1956.
A panel was established by the Indian government in 1959 to reorganise states based on language. The panel recommended creating a separate Marathi-speaking state that would encompass Bombay City and other Marathi-speaking areas that are part of the state of Bombay.
The establishment of the state of Maharashtra on May 1, 1960, marked the beginning of a new chapter in the Marathas’ history.
Gujarat Gaurav Din, or Gujarat Day, is observed on May 1 to honour the state of Gujarat’s establishment in 1960. Gujaratis, who take pride in their state’s rich history and cultural heritage, celebrate it grandly.
Since the founding of the Mahagujarat Movement in 1928, there has been a call for a separate state for Gujarati-speaking citizens. The Indian government established a panel in 1956 to reorganise states along linguistic lines after this idea gained popularity in the 1950s.
The panel recommended that the Gujarat and Saurashtra parts of the former Bombay State be combined into a new state specifically for Gujarati-speaking citizens. On May 1, 1960, Gujarat was formally established as a state, with Ahmedabad serving as its capital.
These two states commemorate their statehood on May 1 for the following reasons:
There is a historical explanation behind this. As mentioned above, both states were established on May 1, 1960, after India’s state structure was reorganised along linguistic lines.
Maharashtra and Gujarat were constituted on the same day to maintain equality and harmony, as the administration sought to avoid any disputes or problems regarding state formation. They celebrate their statehood on May 1 because of their shared heritage and the desire for equality and unity among their citizens.
There are several parades, events, and ceremonies held in both states to commemorate the day. In Maharashtra, Shivaji Park in Dadar hosts the primary event. And in Gujarat, the Sabarmati Waterfalls host the primary event.
The two states’ cultures and customs are showcased during the festivities. The day has been proclaimed a public holiday in Maharashtra.
