In India, it is celebrated as both Maharashtra Day and International Labour Day.

On one hand, Maharashtra celebrates its formation and cultural identity. On the other, Labour Day honours the hard work and struggles of workers around the world.

What is May 1 about?

May 1 marks two key events:

This day defines both regional pride and global solidarity.

The significance of 1st May lies in its connection to people's movements; one for identity and the other for dignity at work.

For Maharashtra, it represents the success of the Samyukta Maharashtra movement. For workers, it symbolises the fight for fair wages, safe conditions, and reasonable working hours.

In India, Labour Day was first observed in 1923 by Malayapuram Singaravelu Chettiar who was a prominent labour leader and a person who hoisted the red flag for the first time and demanded that 1st May should be recognised as a national holiday for workers.

This date was chosen to align with International Workers' Day, which traces its origins to the Haymarket affair in Chicago.

In 1886, workers protested for an eight-hour workday, and the movement turned violent which became a turning point in global labour rights history.

In Maharashtra, the day is celebrated with government events, parades, cultural programmes, and worker rallies. It is also a public holiday across the state.

Even today, 1st May reminds people about unity, identity, and workers' rights. It shows how much progress has been made and highlights the need to keep working for fair opportunities for everyone.