By IANS,
Mumbai: Maharashtra’s golden jubilee was celebrated with enthusiasm and festive fervour by political parties all across the state Saturday.
The main function was held at Shivaji Park Saturday morning when Governor K. Sankaranaraynan took the salute at a police parade.
Political parties had chalked day-long events in various parts of the city to commemorate the formation of Maharashtra May 1, 1960.
Earlier in the morning, Sankaranarayanan inaugurated a three-day mega-exhibition organised by the directorate-general of information and public relations in the presence of Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, Deputy Chief Minister Chhagan Bhujbal, and Speaker Dilip Walse-Patil.
The expo showcases rare photographs of Maharashtra’s journey to becoming the leading developed state in the five decades since its birth.
The digitally-enhanced and well-preserved images also include moments from the struggle for India’s independence, Mahatma Gandhi’s sojourn in the state, the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement, the forts of the state, the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra and other topics.
These images can also be downloaded from the state government’s website by media houses and other interested persons, Director General of Information and Publicity Prajakta Lawangare said.
Later in the morning dignitaries offered floral tributes at the Martyrs’ Memorial at Hutatma Chowk in south Mumbai.
The Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee felicitated veterans of the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement at a function in Pune Saturday afternoon.
Actor Vivek Oberoi, along with Mumbai Police Commissioner D. Sivanandan, received and felicitated nine children under the age of 10 years who reached the Gateway of India after roller skating for 65 km.
Another set of functions included a light and sound show followed by fireworks along the Marine Drive in the evening.
Similar events have been organised across the state by various other political parties.