May first Day ( May 1)  has a special significance in Maharashtra. It was on this day in 1960 that the state came into existence after it was carved out of the Bombay State. The remaining part of the Bombay State is now known as Gujarat.

People across Maharashtra observe Maharashtra Day to celebrate Marathi heritage and pride. Shivaji Park in Mumbai hosts a massive celebration and a parade every year, which is attended by prominent personalities.

Maharashtra Day is usually associated with parades and political speeches and celebrations, among various other public and private events celebrating the history and traditions of Maharashtra. It is celebrated to commemorate the creation of Maharashtra, a Marathi-speaking state.

The State Reorganisation Act, 1956 defines the boundaries for states within India on the basis of languages.  The State of Bombay which was created as a result of this Act, however, was made up of different regions where different languages were spoken; Marathi, Gujarati, Kutchi, and Konkani. The Samyukta Maharashtra Committee was at the forefront of the movement to divide the State of Bombay into two states; one is made up of areas where people mainly speak Gujarati and Kutchi and the other where people mainly spoke Marathi and Konkani.

As per the Bombay Reorganisation Act, 1960 enacted by the Parliament of India on 25 April 1960, the state of Maharashtra and Gujarat was formed as a result of this movement. The Act came into force on 1st May 1960. Every year, the Maharashtra government issues a notification declaring 1st May as Maharashtra Day as a public holiday. The holiday applies to all schools, offices, and companies under the jurisdiction of the State and Central Governments, who celebrate the day by organizing various programs.