Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day: May 1 is a unique day in Indian history since it marks the day when two culturally affluent states of Maharashtra and Gujarat came into existence. Though International Labour Day falls on this day across the globe, the two Indian states celebrate their foundation day with great pride and fervor. The day commemorates the linguistic reorganisation of Bombay State in 1960 that birthed Maharashtra and Gujarat.
After independence, India had the challenge of reorganizing its states to represent more linguistic and cultural groups. This was achieved through the States Reorganization Act of 1956. Nonetheless, the Bombay State with areas of heterogeneous linguistic groups like Marathi, Gujarati, Konkani, and Kutchi speakers became a point of contention for demands for independent states.
The Samyukta Maharashtra Movement, initiated in 1956, was a movement for a Marathi state. The Mahagujarat Movement, begun as early as 1928, also gained strength in the 1950s, demanding a Gujarati-speaking state. These movements conceived linguistic and cultural identity to be worthy of sole representation in the government.
To these requests, the government of India responded by enacting the Bombay Reorganization Act during April 1960. Bombay State was constitutionally split on May 1, 1960, into two new states: Maharashtra, with Mumbai as its capital, and Gujarat, whose capital at first was located at Ahmedabad (later transferred to Gandhinagar). It was a culmination of decades-long agitation and demands for linguistic self-determination.
Gujarat Day and Maharashtra Day are annually celebrated with cultural events, parades, and public functions. The chief function is held at Shivaji Park in Mumbai, where the Chief Minister raises the flag in Maharashtra. In Gujarat, cultural festivals and exhibitions featuring the heritage of the state are typically part of the celebrations. These festivities remind one of the prominence of linguistic and cultural identity in constructing India’s federal edifice.
Also Read: Labour Day: History Behind Global Workers Celebration on May 1
May 1 is not merely a date on a calendar. It is a celebration of unity, power, and democratic spirit of India. It is Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day that celebrate the rich heritage and contribution of those states, hence the day turns into a pride day for people of those states.
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