History
The region has been ruled by the Satavahanas, Rashtrakutas, Yadavas and later the Maratha Empire founded by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century. After Independence, the present state was formed on 1 May 1960 following the Samyukta Maharashtra movement.
Geography
Maharashtra spans about 3,07,713 km², making it India's third-largest state by area. The Sahyadri (Western Ghats) run parallel to the Konkan coast, while the Deccan plateau covers the interior. Major rivers include the Godavari, Krishna and Tapi.
Administration
The state is divided into 6 revenue divisions — Konkan, Pune, Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Amravati and Nagpur — and 36 districts. Mumbai is the capital and Nagpur the second capital, where the winter session of the legislature is held.
Culture & Heritage
Marathi is the official language. The state is known for Lavani and Powada folk forms, the Warkari tradition, Ganeshotsav, Marathi theatre and cinema, and heritage sites including Ajanta, Ellora, Elephanta and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.