North Indian Assn to celebrate Maharashtra Day on May 1

Mumbai, Apr 28 (UNI) An association of North Indians today announced that it will celebrate 'Maharashtra Day' for the first time on May 1 with a view to show their love and respect for the state.

Talking to mediapersons here, the Bihar Uttar Pradesh Jharkhand Sanskriti Manch chief, former MLA Abhiram Singh agreed that it was very late for him and other North Indians to celebrate the Maharashtra Day. But, he said, it was better late than never.

He said the function would be held at the Lion's Club Sports Complex near Milan Subway in the western suburb.

''Maharashtra Day is being celebrated for the last 49 years and even though it is too late, we will like to make a beginning as it was long due,'' said Mr Singh.

'This is the right time to do it for everyone as the population of Mumbai is increasing, with people from all states coming here', he said.

It may be noted that in January, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena president Raj Thackeray had stated in a speech that the north Indians were earning their livelihood here, but still were celebrating the formation of Uttar Pradesh and the Chhat Puja here, instead of celebrating Maharashtra Day, which showed their commercial nature. Next month, he unleashed a tirade against North Indian, leading to attacks on them across the state.

Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, Union Minister for Civil Aviation Praful Patel and other NCP leaders along with Bhojpuri film actor Ravi Kishan and many others will participate in the cultural programme. Mr Kishan will sing 'Maharashtra Mazha' song on the occasion.

Mohan Redkar, the youth who died on April 11 this year at Bandra Bandstand, while saving the lives of four others would be remembered on the occasion.

State Congress spokesperson Sanjay Nirupam will also celebrate the Maharashtra Day and has organised a cultural programme on similar lines in the city.

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