01 May,2026 04:27 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
President Droupadi Murmu and PM Narendra Modi. FILE PIC
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on Friday wished the people on Maharashtra Day and said that the sacred land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj inspires us with a spirit of patriotism, courage, and self-respect.
In a post on X, President Murmu wrote, "On the auspicious occasion of Maharashtra Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all the residents of the state. This sacred land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj inspires us with a spirit of patriotism, courage, and self-respect. Great luminaries from Maharashtra - such as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, Savitribai Phule, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar - have provided a new direction to both society and the nation. The hardworking and determined people of Maharashtra are making significant contributions to the country's journey of development. It is my sincere wish that Maharashtra continues to advance steadily on the path of progress, and that the lives of all the state's residents remain filled with happiness and prosperity."
PM Modi also extended his best wishes to the people of Maharashtra.
"Best wishes to my sisters and brothers of Maharashtra on Maharashtra Day. Maharashtra has a long history of social awakening, cultural richness and leadership across sectors." he wrote.
"From literature, theatre, music and cinema to industry, education, science and public service, the state has made a lasting contribution to India's growth. Praying for the continuous development of Maharashtra and the well-being of its great people," he said.
Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi also extended his greetings.
He posted on X: "Best wishes to the people of Maharashtra and Gujarat on their Foundation Day. The invaluable contributions and dedication of these states have played a vital role in India's progress. Their rich history, vibrant traditions, and diverse languages are our shared heritage, which we must cherish and protect. May they continue to prosper and strengthen the fabric of our nation."
NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar said that the state that emerged from the struggle for a united Maharashtra is a symbol of the labour, self-respect and determination of workers, farmers, and labourers.
"Maharashtra, which stands on the strength of industry, agriculture and social movements, is a strong foundation of progress, equality and identity. Let us remain committed to the all-round progress of the state while protecting the rights of workers, farmers and labourers. Heartfelt greetings to all on the occasion of Maharashtra Day and Labour Day," he stated.
Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Dharmendra Pradhan, and Hardeep Singh Puri also extended warm greetings to the people of Maharashtra.
Maharashtra Day is one of the important events for the state. On this day in 1960, the late Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, along with Yashwantrao Chavan and Sri Prakasa, introduced the map of Maharashtra at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai.
Since that day, May 1 is officially recognised as Maharashtra Day. On this day, the government declares a public holiday for all banks, schools, offices, institutions and markets. Every year, the day is celebrated with a grand parade in Shivaji Park, Dadar, followed by a speech by the Governor.
(With IANS and ANI inputs)