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[[File:Gsb.jpg|thumb|[[Ganesh Chaturthi]], a popular festival in the state]]

[[Maharashtra]] is the third largest state of India. It has a long history of Marathi saints of [[Varkari|Varakari religious movement]], such as [[Dnyaneshwar]], [[Namdev]], [[Chokhamela]], [[Eknath]] and [[Tukaram]] which forms the one of bases of the '''culture of Maharashtra''' or '''Marathi culture'''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.travbuddy.com/travel-blogs/2623/Santa-Bhoomi-Land-saints-Maharashtra-2|title=Sant Bhumi Maharashtra|access-date=21 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151121212638/http://www.travbuddy.com/travel-blogs/2623/Santa-Bhoomi-Land-saints-Maharashtra-2|archive-date=21 November 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> Maharashtra had huge influence over India under the 17th-century king [[Shivaji]] of the [[Maratha Empire]] and his concept of [[Hindavi Swarajya]] which translates to ''self-rule of people''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindujagruti.org/hinduism-for-kids/499.html|title=Shivaji Maharaj, Founder and an Ideal ruler of Hindavi Swarajya|access-date=21 November 2015}}</ref>

The state of Maharashtra spans multiple cultures which includes cultures related to [[Hindu]]s, [[Muslim]]s, [[Buddhist]]s, [[Sikh]]s, [[Christians]], etc. Lord [[Ganesha]], [[Hanuman|Maruti]], [[Shiva|Mahadeo]] in form of [[Lingam|Shivlinga]], [[Khandoba]] , Kalubai devi, and Lord [[Vithoba|Vitthal]] are some of the deities worshipped by Hindus of Maharashtra.

Maharashtra is divided into various regions, such as [[Marathwada]], [[Vidarbha]], [[Khandesh]], and [[Konkan]]. Each has its own cultural identity in the form of different dialects of [[Marathi language]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.marathiheritage.com/language.html|title=Languages in Maharashtra}}</ref> folk songs, food, and ethnicity.

== Overview ==
[[File:Emperor of Maratha India.jpg|thumb|right|Statue of [[Shivaji]] opposite to [[Gateway of India]] in [[South Mumbai]]]]
[[File:Ambedkar Jayanti Procession.png|thumb|right|[[Ambedkar Jayanti]] procession at [[Chaitya Bhoomi]], [[Mumbai]]]]

About 79% of Maharashtrians are Hindu, and there are significant [[Muslim]], [[Christians|Christian]] and [[Buddhist]] minorities.<ref>{{cite web|title=Maharashtra latest caste/religionwise population demographics|url=http://infoelections.com/infoelection/index.php/maharashtra/7770-maharashtra-caste-religion-wise-population-demographics.html|date=July 2016|access-date=15 September 2017}}</ref> The Maharashtrian culture consists of people from all a vast majority of religions. Due to it being huge areawise, many sub-regional cultures also exist in Maharashtra. The sub region of [[Vidarbha]], was earlier a part of [[Madhya Pradesh]], hence it has that influence upon its culture.<ref>{{cite web|title=Important facts about Vidarbha|url=http://www.realityviews.in/2010/03/important-facts-regarding-vidarbha.html}}</ref> There are many temples in [[Maharashtra]], some of which are thousands of years old. These temples are constructed in a fusion of architectural styles borrowed from North and South India. The temples also blend themes from Hindu, Buddhist and Jain cultures. The temple of [[Vitthal]] at [[Pandharpur]] is the most important temple for the Varkari sect. Other important religious places are the [[Ashtavinayaka]] temples of Lord [[Ganesha]], Bhimashankar which is one of the Jyotirling (12 important Shiva temples).<ref>{{cite web|title=Temples of Maharashtra|url=http://www.india.com/travel/discover/state-maharashtra/theme-temples/|access-date=15 September 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Top 12 Shiva temples in Maharashtra|url=http://www.walkthroughindia.com/festivals/religion/top-12-most-famous-lord-shiva-temples-of-maharashtra/|access-date=15 September 2017}}</ref>

Near [[Aurangabad, Maharashtra|Aurangabad]] are [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]]s and famous tourist attractions.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ajanta Caves|url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/242|access-date=15 September 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Ellora Caves|url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/242|access-date=15 September 2017}}</ref> Mughal architecture can be seen in the tomb of the wife of [[Aurangzeb]] called [[Bibi Ka Maqbara]] located at [[Aurangabad, Maharashtra|Aurangabad]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Bibi Ka Maqbara|url=http://www.maharashtratourism.net/religious-places/bibi-ka-maqbara.html|access-date=15 September 2017}}</ref> Mumbai is the capital of Maharashtra and has humid climate throughout the year. The Gateway Of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Shaniwar Wada, Agakhan Palace and Deekshabhoomi are some of the historical monuments.

Maharashtra has a large number of hill, land and sea [[fort]]s.Forts have played an important role in the history of Maharashtra since the time of the Shivaji.Some of the important forts in Maharashtra are Shivneri, Raigad, Vijaydurg, Pratapgad, Sinhagad.The majority of the forts in Maharashtra are found along the coastal region of Konkan and the adjoining Sahyadri ranges.<ref>{{cite web|title=Top 25 monuments in Maharashtra|url=http://www.walkthroughindia.com/attraction/top-25-most-popular-historical-monuments-of-maharashtra/|access-date=15 September 2017}}</ref>

== Religions, castes and sects ==
[[File:Khandoba in a household shrine.JPG|thumb|right|Household shrine in a Maharashtrian home]]
Marathi Hindus revere many religious figures. Among the figures who originated in the region are Banka Mahar, Bhagu, Damajipanth, [[Kanhopatra]], Karmamelam, Nirmala, Sadna, Sakhubai, Satyakam Jabali and Soyarabai.<ref>Shepherd, P. 111 ''Gurus Rediscovered:''</ref>

==Lifestyle==
{{More citations needed section|date=November 2020}}
The people of Maharashtra have a rich traditional heritage. Maharashtrians have a very simple life style and believe in hard working.{{Citation needed|date=November 2020|reason=Your explanation here}} {{Peacock term|date=November 2020}}The Marathas of the state do not believe in having too many spacious palaces and mansions in-fact these people have lived a hard life and were inclined towards freedom struggle.{{Citation needed|date=November 2020|reason=Your explanation here}} The rustic lifestyle of the people can also be observed in the country-side of the state where people have a belief on universal cult of brotherhood, where the people of all religions lives as a one community.{{Citation needed|date=November 2020|reason=Your explanation here}} A place where the revered saints like [[Sai Baba of Shirdi|Sai Baba]], [[Osho]] and [[Haji Ali]] preached the religion of peace and prosperity.{{Citation needed|date=November 2020|reason=Your explanation here}}{{Peacock term|date=November 2020}}
The people of the state wear different colorful types of costumes, and there is variation in dance and music according to people's specific localities.
Dance forms like [[Powada]], Banjara Holi Dance, [[Lavani]], and [[Koli people|Koli]] are popular in Maharashtra.<ref>{{cite web|title=Folk dance forms of Maharashtra|url=http://www.discoveredindia.com/maharashtra/culture-in-maharashtra/dance/|access-date=15 September 2017}}</ref>

==Clothing==
[[File:Marathi Women.jpg|right|thumb|Maharashtrian women in traditional attire]]
Traditional clothes for Maharashtrian males include the [[dhoti]], also known as ''Dhotar'', and [[Pheta (turban)|pheta]], while a [[choli]] and nine-yard [[saree]] locally known as [[Kasta sari|Nauwari saadi]] or ''Lugda'' is for women. Traditional clothing is famous in rural areas while traditional people from cities also wear these clothing. These clothes are worn by Maharashtrians while performing various festivals.<ref>{{cite web|title=Traditional Maharashtrian dresses|url=https://www.holidify.com/pages/maharashtra-dresses-144.html|date=August 2017|author="Vidhi Jhaveri"|access-date=15 September 2017}}</ref>

==Cuisine==
{{Main article|Maharashtrian cuisine}}
[[File:Vada Pav.jpg|thumb|left|[[Vada Pav]] is one of the original dishes of Maharashtra.]]
[[File:Pav Bhaji.jpg|thumb|Pav Bhaji]]
'''Marathi''' '''cuisine''' is the [[cuisine]] of the [[Marathi people]] from the Indian state of [[Maharashtra]]. It has distinctive attributes, while sharing much with other [[Indian cuisine]]s. Traditionally, Maharashtrians have considered their food to be more austere than others.

Maharashtrian cuisine includes mild and spicy dishes. [[Peanut|Peanuts]] and [[Cashew|cashews]] are often served with vegetables. [[Meat]] was traditionally used sparsely or only by the well off until recently, because of economic conditions and culture.

Distinctly Maharashtrian dishes include {{transl|mr|pitla}}, {{transl|mr|bhakri}}, {{transl|mr|bharleli vangi}}, {{transl|mr|ukdiche [[modak]]}}, {{transl|mr|aluchi patal bhaji}}, {{transl|mr|[[thalipeeth]]}}, {{transl|mr|[[pav bhaji]]}}, {{transl|mr|[[Puran Poli]]||, {{transl|mr|[[shrikhand]]||, {{transl|mr|basundi}}, {{transl|mr|[[vada pav]]}}, {{transl|mr|nashik chi [[misal pav]]}}, and Mumbai [[chaat]]. {{transl|mr|Puneri missal}}, {{transl|mr|nagpuri}}, {{transl|mr|sambar vada}}, and {{transl|mr|selucha chanaare}} also considered to have originated from Maharashtra.<ref name=":0" />

The Konkan, Varadi, Agri and khandeshi cuisines are popular with tourists. The specialty dishes of Maharashtran cuisines are often strong in pepper and spice with a twist of curry leaves, coconut and peanuts; well-known dishes include [[vada pav]], [[misal pav]] and Mumbai [[chaat]] and puneri missal, selucha chana.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|title=Food diaries: Maharashtra food and cuisine|url=https://www.holidify.com/blog/maharashtra-food/|access-date=15 September 2017}}</ref>

Typical breakfast items include {{transl|mr|[[misal]]}}, {{transl|mr|[[pohe]]}}, {{transl|mr|[[upma]]}}, {{transl|mr|[[sheera]]}}, {{transl|mr|sabudana khichadi}} and {{transl|mr|[[thalipeeth]]}}. In some households leftover rice from the previous night is fried with onions, turmeric and mustard seeds for breakfast, making {{transl|mr|phodnicha bhat}}. Typical Western breakfast items such as cereals, sliced bread and eggs, as well as South Indian items such as ''idli'' and ''dosa'' are also popular. Tea or coffee is served with breakfast.

<br />

=== Urban lunch and dinner menus ===
A Maharashtrian vegetarian meal with a variety of items
Vegetarian lunch and dinner plates in urban areas carry a combination of:

* Wheat flatbread such as round ''[[chapati]]'' or ''ghadichi poli'' (layered triangular chapati)
* Boiled rice
* Salad or ''[[koshimbir]]'' based on onions, tomatoes or cucumber
* {{transl|mr|[[Papad]]}} or related snacks such as {{transl|mr|sandge}}, {{transl|mr|kurdaya}} and {{transl|mr|sabudana papdya}}
* Dry or fresh chutney, mango or lemon [[South Asian pickles|pickles]]
* {{transl|mr|Aamti}} or {{transl|mr|varan}} soup based on {{transl|mr|[[toor dal]]}}, other {{transl|mr|dals}} or {{transl|mr|[[kadhi]]}}. When {{transl|mr|usal}} is part of the menu, the {{transl|mr|aamti}} may be omitted.
* Vegetables with gravy based on seasonal availability such as egg plants, [[okra]], potatoes, or cauliflower
* Dry leafy vegetables such as spinach
* [[Usal]] based on [[Sprouting|sprouted]] or unsprouted whole legumes

Apart from bread, rice, and chutney, other items may be substituted. Families that eat meat, fish and poultry may combine vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, with rice and chapatis remaining the staples. Vegetable or non-vegetable items are essentially dips for the bread or for mixing with rice.

Traditional dinner items are arranged in a circular way. With salt placed at [[Clock position|12 o'clock]], pickles, ''koshimbir'' and condiments are placed anti-clockwise of the salt. Vegetable preparations are arranged in a clockwise fashion with a sequence of leafy greens curry, dry vegetables, sprouted been curry (''usal'' ) and ''dal''. Rice is always on the periphery rather than in the center.

=== Rural lunch and dinner menus ===
A typical simple Maharashtrian meal with bhaaji, bhakari, raw onion and pickle.
In the Konkan coastal area, boiled rice and ''rice bhakri'', {{transl|mr|nachni bhakri}} is the staple, with a combination of the vegetable and non-vegetable dishes described in the lunch and dinner menu.

In other areas of Maharashtra such as [[Desh, Maharashtra|Desh]], [[Khandesh]], [[Marathwada]] and [[Vidarbha]], the traditional staple was ''bhakri'' with a combination of ''dal'', and vegetables. The ''bhakri'' is increasingly replaced by wheat-based chapatis.

== Architecture ==
{{Main|Architecture of Maharashtra}}<br />

== Sport ==
{{Main article|Sports in Maharashtra||label 1=Sports in Maharashtra}}
[[Sports]] is an important part of the [[culture]] of [[Maharashtra]]. [[Kabaddi]], [[field hockey|hockey]], [[kho kho]], [[badminton]],
], and [[table tennis]] are the popular sports in the state.<ref name="indfy1">{{cite web |url=http://www.indfy.com/maharashtra/sports.html |title=Sports of Maharashtra |publisher=Indfy.com |date=2011-10-04 |access-date=2013-10-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131101011449/http://www.indfy.com/maharashtra/sports.html |archive-date=2013-11-01 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
The wrestling championship like [[Hind Kesari]], [[Maharashtra Kesari]] are very popular in the rural regions of Maharashtra.<ref name="maharashtramaza1">{{cite web |url=http://www.maharashtramaza.info/home/culture#TOC-Sports-in-Maharashtra |title=Culture of Maharashtra - Sovereign Maharashtra |publisher=Maharashtramaza.info |access-date=2013-10-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020230855/http://www.maharashtramaza.info/home/culture#TOC-Sports-in-Maharashtra |archive-date=2013-10-20 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The [[cricket]] craze can be seen throughout Maharashtra, as it is the most widely followed and played sport.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.coolage.in/2012/09/30/parallel-journeys-celebrating-indian-cricket-craze-top3/ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20131020213928/http://www.coolage.in/2012/09/30/parallel-journeys-celebrating-indian-cricket-craze-top3/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=2013-10-20 |title='Parallel Journeys' - Celebrating Indian cricket craze - CoolAge |publisher=Coolage.in |access-date=2013-10-20 }}</ref> Maharashtra has produced many Iconic cricketers of India lsuch as [[Sachin Tendulkar]] and [[Sunil Gavaskar]].<ref name="maharashtramaza1"/> Children's games, including [[gilli-danda]] and [[pakada-pakadi]] ([[Tag (game)|tag]]), are also played in Maharashtra. [[Horse riding]], [[wrestling]], [[fencing]], [[archery]], and [[shooting]] were popular among the former rulers of Maharashtra.<ref name="indfy1"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.scribd.com/doc/43414852/History-of-Maharashtra |title=History of Maharashtra |publisher=Scribd.com |date=2010-11-20 |access-date=2013-10-20}}</ref> Maharashtra has various domestic-level, franchise-based leagues for hockey, chess, tennis, and badminton.

The Sporting activities in Maharashtra are governed by the Commissioner of Sports and Youth Services, Pune.

== See also ==
* [[Sangeet Natak]]
* [[Sports in Maharashtra]]
* [[Maharashtrian cuisine]]
* [[Marathi cinema]]
* [https://www.maharastriantraditionalfood.co.in/2020/09/ukdiche-modak-festival-recipe.html Maharastrian Traditional Food Ganesh Chatrurthi Special Ukdiche Modak Recipe]

== References ==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Culture of Maharashtra| ]]

Culture of Maharashtra - Revision history

158.144.42.124: page updated

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