Maharashtra at a Glance :

State Capital: Mumbai (BOMBAY)
Population ('000s in 1991): 78,937
Area ('000 sq. km): 308
Principal Language: Marathi

About Maharashtra :

Maharashtra is one of the largest states in India, both in terms of population and area. Its booming capital Mumbai, makes it not only one of the most important states economically, but also a major gateway for overseas visitors.The name Maharashtra first appeared in a 7th century inscription and in a Chinese traveller's account. Its name may have originated from 'rathi', meaning 'chariot driver', referring to builders and drivers of chariots, who were known as 'maharathis', or 'fighting force'.

The physical character of Maharashtra is predominantly that of a plateau. The Western Ghats flank the western coast of the state. The Satpura range covers the northern part of the state, while the Ajanta and Satmala ranges run through the central part. Maharashtra is contiguous to the Arabian Sea on the western side, while Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh are its neighbours on the northern side. The eastern part of Maharashtra has its boundary with Madhya Pradesh, and on its southern side are the states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. The third - largest state of India, both in area and population, Maharashtra was formed in 1960, when the Marathi and Gujarati linguistic areas of the former Bombay state were separated. Bombay (Mumbai) city became the capital of the new state.

The first famous rulers of Maharashtra were the Satavahanas (230 BC to 225 AD), who were, actually, the creators of Maharashtra, and have left behind a plethora of literary, epigraphic, artistic and archaeological evidence. Then came the Vakatakas who established a pan - Indian empire. Under them, Maharashtra witnessed an all - round development in the fields of learning, arts and religion. After the Vakatakas and a brief interlude of the Kalachuri dynasty, the most important rulers were the Chalukyas. Many other rulers followed the Chalukyas, but it was much later under Shivaji, that Maharashtra evolved as a cohesive entity.
Descendants of a warrior tribe, the people of Maharashtra are very honest, hard working and hospitable. Filled with a zest for living and always on the move, their regard for women is legendary. Maharashtra, predominantly a Hindu society, with Ganesha as the principal deity, is also home to a host of other religious groups, including the enterprising Parsi community. Marathi, Hindi and Gujarati are widely spoken in this state.

PLACES OF INTEREST:

Gateway of India: The ceremonial arch was built in 1927 to comemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary for the Delhi Durbar in 1911.Constructed in honey-coloured basalt the gateway was designed by George Wittet, inspired by 16th century Gujarat Style.Historically the Gateway holds greater significance as the last of the British troops left Independant India by sea marched through its portals.

Flora Fountain : The beautifully sculptured fountain was erected in the memory of the Governer, Sir Henry Bartle Edward Frere as a tribute for his contribution towards the building of Bombay.

Marine Drive: This sweeping Queens Necklace, Flickering with a thousand light turns into the main thoroughfare linking Malabar Hill and the northern parts of the island to the southernmost points of Colaba, Cuffe Parade, Nariman Point and Fort.

BEACHES:

Chowpatty: Situated at the northern end of Marine Drive it isd a stretch of sandy beach and attracts hordes of people during the weekends and on holidays. People enjoy the evening sea breeze and the children to play. A food- mart of stalls have become a permanent feature and offer a range of eatables from the local speciality snacks.

Juhu: Situded 30 km from the city it is a crowded beach with residential apartments and bungalows surrounding it. It seems as if the entire population of the area descends on the beach for a breath of fresh air. The central part has food stalls again similar to Chowpatty. And a lot more in terms of fun-rides for children.

CAVES:

Elephanta Caves: 9 km by sea from Gateway of India. From Gateway Of India regular ferry service are available. A ferry ride across the harbour takes you to Gharapuri the local name for Elephanta. Almost at its centre the island rises into two conical hillocks. The island stone elephant was found when they landed there in the 16th century. These eight century rock-cut caves were hewn out of the hills and sculpted intricately. Three avenues made from four rows of massive columns cut into the main rock lead to the 18-ft high imposing structure of Maheshmurti- depicting Shiva as the creator, destroyer & Preserver. It has been often erroneously called the Trimurti.

Kanheri Caves: These are 2nd century Buddhist hill caves at Kanheri. Though there are no representation of the Buddha himself, symbolic representations of his religion are found. The caves lie about 40km from the heart of the city.

GETTING THERE

By Air: The domestic airport at santacruz which lies about 26 km from Nariman Point is served by leading international arlines. Sahar International Airport (30 kms) has Air India and all the other international flights operating to Bombay land here.

By Rail: Bombay is the headquaters of the central and western railways. regular train services connect VT & Bombay central stations to different parts of India.