Golden Day for My Marathi – Chief Minister Eknath Shinde Today is Marathi Language Pride Day

Mumbai : Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has expressed his immense joy as today marks a historic day for all Marathi language lovers, with Marathi being granted the prestigious status of a classical language. He described it as a day of glory and pride for those who cherish Marathi language, culture, and festivals worldwide. He also congratulated the people of the state on this momentous occasion. While welcoming this decision by the Union Cabinet, the Chief Minister praised the efforts of Marathi enthusiasts, as well as the contributions of scholars and researchers.

The Chief Minister further announced that this day will now be celebrated as ‘Marathi Language Pride Day.’

Chief Minister Shinde also referenced Saint Dnyaneshwar’s famous line, “Maja Marathachi Bolu. Pari Amrita Jinku”, emphasizing that with Marathi now being recognized as a classical language, a significant battle has been won. He noted that the Maharashtra government had continuously supported this cause and that the late Shiv Sena chief, Balasaheb Thackeray, had long dreamed of achieving this recognition for Marathi. This decision, he said, is a fulfillment of that dream. During a Niti Aayog meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also called for this recognition for Marathi, and today’s decision represents the culmination of a long struggle.

As this momentous announcement was made on the first day of the Navratri festival dedicated to Adishakti, Chief Minister Shinde likened it to the sweetness of sugar added to milk. He extended his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat for bestowing this honor on the beloved Marathi language. He further stated that Marathi is a profound language and that, with its new classical status, it can now be promoted with even greater vigor. Marathi has been preserved and enriched by our saints, and it is essential that we continue to use it in everyday life.

The Chief Minister expressed his heartfelt thanks to all Marathi speakers, intellectuals, language scholars, researchers, writers, and critics who have worked tirelessly to elevate the status of Marathi.