Dual Celebrations: Maharashtra Day and Labour Day on May 1

Celebrations in Maharashtra on May 1, marking the state’s anniversary and Labour Day.

May 1 holds a dual significance in India as it is celebrated as both Maharashtra Day and Labour Day. Maharashtra Day commemorates the formation of the state of Maharashtra, which was officially established on this day in 1960 after states were reorganized based on linguistic lines. Simultaneously, May 1 is also observed nationwide as Labour Day, a day dedicated to honouring the contributions and rights of workers.

Labour Day, known as International Workers’ Day, is celebrated under various names across Indian states. It is called Kamgar Din in Hindi, Karmikara Dinacharane in Kannada, Karmika Dinotsavam in Telugu, Kamgar Divas in Marathi, Uzhaipalar Dhinam in Tamil, Thozhilaali Dinam in Malayalam, and Shromik Dibosh in Bengali. This day is pivotal in recognizing the achievements of the labour movement and in advocating for improved working conditions, fair wages, and social justice for workers.

On this public holiday, banks across multiple states including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and others will remain closed, following the Reserve Bank of India’s holiday schedule. Major cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kolkata will see bank closures, affecting financial transactions.

Other notable bank holidays in May 2024 include May 8 in West Bengal, May 10 for the Akshaya Tritiya festival, and May 23 on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. Regular weekend closures will occur on the second and fourth Saturdays, as well as Sundays throughout the month.

As Maharashtra celebrates its statehood and workers across the country their hard-fought rights on May 1, the day symbolizes unity and recognition of regional and labour identities within India.