Gujarat Day – 1st may
The whole world celebrates 1st May as International Labour day, whereas in India the day is also celebrated as Gujarat Day and Maharashtra Day. It was on 1st May 1960 when both the states were carved out from Bombay according to the Bombay Reorganization Act. The multilingual state of Bombay was divided into Gujarat and Maharashtra states.
History of Gujarat
The State took its name from the Gujara, the land of the Gujjars. After Gujjars, Islam Sultanate, Mughals, Marathas, Europeans, and Britishers took over the state. Finally, “Quit India Movement” started to get independence from the British people which was led by the famous Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel.
Post India’s independence in 1947 India had Mysore, Punjab, Madras, Bombay, Orissa, Bengal, United Provinces, Central Provinces, Assam, Rajasthan, and J&K as states. Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Delhi, Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands were the Union Territories. To integrate the entire Gujarati-speaking population under one administrative body, a Mahagujarat conference took place and they finally decided to split the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra.
Then Bombay though had people speaking various languages like Marathi, Gujarati, Kutchi, and Konkani, which obviously did not work out. Several protests were carried out by various linguistic groups for the creation of states based on the language of the regions.
The biggest reorganization of India’s internal boundaries occurred in 1956 when an official States Reorganization Act was implemented, which defined boundaries for India’s states based on the languages that are primarily spoken. This States Reorganization Act divided Kerala from Mysore state, Andhra Pradesh from Madras State, Himachal Pradesh as a Union Territory from Punjab and Tripura, and Manipur as a Union Territory from Assam. It also gave Delhi its current recognition of Union Territory.
Gujarat finally received the status of a state in 1960, the same day Maharashtra was also formed. Thus, Both the states on this day celebrate their statehood. The first capital of Gujarat was Ahmedabad; the capital was moved to Gandhinagar in 1970.
How the day is celebrated
Gujarat is a blend of modern and traditional constructions and one can see several marvels around. It is popularly referred to as the “jewel of western India.” It was also the home of Mahatma Gandhi and Vallabhbhai Patel, who preached unity between all religions and became a worldwide figures for peace.
Gujarat Day is celebrated with parades, and other events held by the government to showcase the culture and tradition of Gujarat. The main parade is held at Sabarmati Waterfall in Ahmedabad, along with various cultural programs Government of the state announces new schemes and programs on this day. Many notable personalities with academic backgrounds, police officials, sportsmen, and doctors are awarded for their notable contributions.
Let’s celebrate and take the culture, traditions, and customs of Gujarat ahead. Wishing you a Happy Gujarat Statehood Day.
Suggested Read: Formation Dates of Indian States
