May 1 is a significant day in Indian history. 56 years ago, the modern day state of Maharashtra was formed, and the day is celebrated as Maharashtra Day. Back then, the States Reorganisation Act, 1956, clearly stated the boundaries for states within India on the basis of languages. The Bombay State was formed under this act. People speaking various languages like Marathi, Gujarati, Kutchi and Konkani asked for it. However, having two linguistic units in one state was not working out. The Sanyukta Maharashtra Samiti was leading the movement to divide Bombay state into two states — one where people primarily spoke Gujarati and Kutchhi. And the other where people primarily spoke Marathi and Konkani. Thus, on May 1, 1960, as per the Bombay Reorganisation Act, Maharashtra and Gujarat were divided and Maharashtra became a separate state.

The celebrations

The day is commemorated with a parade at Shivaji Park, Dadar. The State Governor, State Reserve Police Force, BMC Force, Home Guards, Mumbai Police, Civil Defence members are a part of this parade. It's also a public holiday and banks, stock markets and offices remain closed.

Early morning, flag hoisting is held at the district headquarters in the presence of the guardian ministers as they salute the martyrs on the day. Many important personalities from various fields like academia, police, sports and doctors are rewarded on the day for making valuable contributions in their respective fields.

There are private celebrations too. Traditional lavani, lezim performances, folk songs and narration of poetries by popular Marathi saints are also conducted, and people often dress up in traditional Marathi attire.