Here are some of the key facts concerning Maharashtra:
Population: About 125 million
Capital: Mumbai, which is also India’s financial capital
Largest City: Mumbai
Area: 307,713 km²
Population Density: About 365 people per km²
Official Language: Marathi
Major Religions: Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Christianity
Economy: Maharashtra has a cosmopolitan economy, with many activities ranging from finance, manufacturing, agriculture to entertainment (Bollywood) and information technology.
Literacy Rate: About 82%.
Economic Hub: Maharashtra, particularly Mumbai, is referred to as the financial capital of India due to the massive scale of its industries, stock exchanges, and corporate offices.
Cultural Importance: There is a robust culture of festivities in Maharashtra. Ganesh Chaturthi and Gudi Padwa are some of the most popular ones. Further, the State houses ancient monuments like Ajanta and Ellora caves.
Political Importance: Owing to the state’s high population and its importance to the Indian economy, it has a significant influence in the politics of India.
Maharashtra has a very diversified economy and significant urbanization along with cultural richness, forming an important state in India’s growth. At the same time, there are further challenges associated with being more of an urban migration area, high congestion, and income inequality.