Marathwada Liberation Day, also known as Marathwada Mukti Sangram Din, is celebrated every year on September 17th, particularly by the people of the Marathwada region in Maharashtra, India. This day commemorates the region’s integration into the Indian Union in 1948, marking the end of the Nizam’s rule in the former Hyderabad State. When India gained independence in 1947, the princely states were given the option to join either India or Pakistan, or to remain independent. While this provision allowed for a sense of sovereignty, it also posed challenges, as it encouraged political fragmentation and created potential border disputes.
One such case was that of Hyderabad, where the then Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, chose to remain independent. This decision was met with widespread resistance, particularly in regions like Marathwada, where the majority of the population was Hindu and culturally aligned with Maharashtra. To address this issue, the Indian government launched a military operation called Operation Polo on September 13th, 1948, with the objective of integrating Hyderabad into the Indian Union. Within five days, the Indian Army defeated the Nizam’s forces. This led to the liberation of Marathwada and other regions under the Nizam’s rule, and their subsequent integration into independent India.
Marathwada Liberation Day honors the sacrifices of the brave individuals who fought for the region’s freedom and integration into a united India. The day serves as a reminder to younger generations about the importance of patriotism and the respect owed to those who played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's unity. The day is marked by flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programs, and tributes to martyrs, organized by local governments and various institutions across the Marathwada districts.
These districts include Aurangabad, Latur, Nanded, Parbhani, Beed, Osmanabad, Jalna, and Hingoli. Although it is not a public holiday, Marathwada Liberation Day continues to be widely celebrated across Maharashtra. It symbolizes strength, honor, unity, and freedom—values deeply rooted in Indian society. This day reflects a rich past, an inspiring present, and a hopeful future, reminding us of the heroes who fought to create a unified nation.
This article has been authored by Mr. Arhaan Mehta