01-05-2025
65th Maharashtra, Gujarat statehood day: President Murmu, V-P Dhankhar, PM Modi hail rich history of both states
India on Thursday marked the 65th anniversary of the founding of the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat, commemorating the moment in 1960 when the sprawling Bombay state was divided along linguistic lines. Known locally as Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Gaurav Divas, the day was celebrated with official tributes and public pride, as national leaders hailed the cultural legacies and economic contributions of the two western states that have helped shape modern India's identity.
On the occasion, President Droupadi Murmu extended her greetings on social media to the people of both the states. 'On the foundation day of Gujarat state, I extend my heartiest greetings to all my countrymen, especially my Gujarati brothers and sisters living in India and abroad. This land of sons like Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi, who gave the message of peace and non-violence to the world, and Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who united India, has always shown the way to humanity,' the President wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
'I am confident that Gujarat will set new standards of progress and will make a significant contribution in making India a world power,' she added.
In another post, the President extended her wishes to the people of Maharashtra. She recalled the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and great personalities like Jyotiba Phule, Savitribai Phule, and BR Ambedkar, expressing hope that the state will continue to lead with patriotism and social reform.
Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, too, reiterated her sentiments. He hailed Gujarat as a land of 'leadership, resilience and innovation'. The Vice-President said the land of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Gujarat continues to inspire through its legacy of leadership, resilience and innovation.
Dhankhar separately wished people of Maharashtra saying: 'On Maharashtra Statehood Day, extend warm greetings to the people of the state. Maharashtra's legacy of social reform, cultural vibrancy, and economic leadership remains a source of national pride. May the state continue to achieve greater milestones in the years ahead.'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, too, took to X to express admiration for the two western states and praised the rapid strides both have made. Speaking of Gujarat, he wrote in Gujarati, 'The state has distinguished itself for its culture, spirit of enterprise and dynamism. The people of Gujarat have excelled in various fields. May the state keep attaining new heights of progress.'
About Maharashtra, the Prime Minister said: 'Maharashtra has always played a vital role in India's development. Its glorious history and the courage of the people come to our mind. The state remains a strong pillar of progress and at the same time has remained connected to its roots.'
