1st May is a significant date for two Indian states: Maharashtra and Gujarat as this day is celebrated as their State Foundation Day. While the rest of the nation celebrates Labour Day on this date, people of Maharashtra and Gujarat honour and celebrate the formation of their respective states. But why do both these states have the same foundation date?
Here is the story behind Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day and the reason behind the celebration on 1 May.
Birth of the Bombay State
After India gained independence, one of the major states that was formed was the Bombay state. At that time, Bombay included large parts of western India, and the region was home to people who spoke different languages such as Marathi, Gujarati, Konkani, and Kutchi.
The state had cities like Mumbai (then Bombay), Ahmedabad, Surat, Pune, and Nagpur, all under one administration. But soon, this mix of languages and cultures started to create tensions.
Demand for Separate States
During the 1950s, there was a growing demand to separate the Bombay State into two regions, divided for Marathi-speaking people and Gujarati-speaking people. Due to this demand, there were two main movements formed known asthe Mahagujarat Movement which served the purpose of demanding a separate state for Gujarati-speaking people. Similarly, the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement was formed for Marathi-speaking people who wished to have a separate state that also includes Mumbai.
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People from both sides protested and demanded their own states. These movements were strong and had mass support. There were also emotional and cultural reasons behind these demands, especially the belief that language plays a key role in identity.
Reorganisation of States and Birth of Maharashtra and Gujarat
After many years of struggle and the demand for different states. The Indian government finally agreed to reorganise the Bombay State according to the people. On 1 May 1960, the Bombay State was officially divided into two separate states which were Maharashtra and Gujarat. As the states formed, Mumbai became the capital of Maharashtra. The initial capital for Gujarat was Ahmedabad which was later changed to Gandhinagar. This historic day is now remembered every year as Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day.
In conclusion, the 1st of May is not just a date but a symbol of linguistic unity, and democracy that allows people to have a say. Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day remind us of the struggles and sacrifices made by people to have states that respect their language and identity.
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