Maharashtra Public Holidays List 2023-2024. Maharashtra is a state located in the western part of India. It is the third-largest state in terms of both area and population. With its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and bustling cities, Maharashtra holds a significant place in the country’s socio-economic landscape.
Maharashtra is known for its vibrant capital city, Mumbai, which is the financial, commercial, and entertainment hub of the country. Mumbai is home to Bollywood, the largest film industry in India, and is also renowned for its iconic landmarks such as the Gateway of India and Marine Drive.
The state of Maharashtra is blessed with diverse geographical features, including the majestic Western Ghats, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region is also known for its stunning hill stations like Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, and Matheran, offering scenic beauty and pleasant weather throughout the year.
Maharashtra has a rich cultural heritage, with the majority of the population being Marathi-speaking. The state celebrates various festivals with great enthusiasm, including Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, Holi, Navaratri, and Eid, among others. These festivals showcase the cultural diversity and traditions of Maharashtra.
what are the principal holidays celebrated in the state of Maharashtra?
Here are some of the important festivals celebrated in Maharashtra:
Ganesh Chaturthi: This is a significant festival in Maharashtra dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It involves the grand installation of Ganesha idols in homes and public pandals, followed by lively processions and cultural performances.
Diwali: Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Maharashtra. People illuminate their homes with diyas (earthen lamps), burst fireworks, exchange sweets, and perform prayers to seek blessings from deities.
Holi: Holi is a vibrant festival celebrated with colors and water. People engage in playful activities, throwing colors at each other and enjoying festive music and dance.
Navratri and Durga Puja: These are nine nights of worship dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga. People participate in traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya, dress in colorful attire, and offer prayers to the goddess.
Makar Sankranti: This festival marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn. People fly kites, prepare traditional sweets like tilgul (sesame and jaggery), and exchange tilgul with their friends and family.
Eid: The Muslim festivals of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are celebrated with great joy and fervor in Maharashtra. People gather for communal prayers, exchange greetings, and share festive meals.
Gudi Padwa: Gudi Padwa is the Maharashtrian New Year and is celebrated with the hoisting of a Gudi (a decorated stick) outside homes. It symbolizes good luck and prosperity.
Mahashivratri: Devotees of Lord Shiva observe fasting and offer prayers on Mahashivratri. Many temples in Maharashtra, such as the famous Trimbakeshwar Temple in Nashik, attract a large number of devotees.
1) How many days off are observed in Maharashtra? Ans Maharashtra observes roughly 20 public holidays annually, including both national and local ones.
2) Do Maharashtra’s public holidays change annually or are they set in stone? Ans There are few fixed public holidays in Maharashtra, including Christmas Day (December 25), Independence Day (August 15), and Republic Day (January 26). On the other hand, the dates of some festivals that are based on the lunar calendar, like Diwali and Eid, might change annually.
3) In Maharashtra, are all public holidays observed? Ans Yes, Maharashtra as a whole observes all public holidays. Different regions of the state, however, may celebrate differently and have different regional traditions.
