01 May,2010 07:21 AM IST | | Soma Das
From Koli dances and laser shows to Thalipeeth lunches, The Guide gives you the complete dossier to go Maharashtrian today
May 1 marks several occasions, notably Labour Day and closer home, the 50th year of Maharashtra's statehood. On this day five decades ago, the Marathi and Gujarati-speaking areas of Bombay Presidency were separated to form the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat, respectively under the Bombay Re-organization Act.
The city will be decked in its finest, with a glittering ceremonial parade at Dadar's Shivaji Park, to be presided over by the Governor. Here are five, hatke ways that will help you discover (or re-discover) the Maharashtrian way to celebrate this day.
Artists perform the Kalsutri Bahulya puppet dance of Ganesh and other idols
Glitter away, Kolhapuri style head to Waman Hari Pethe Jewellers
Why Traditional Maharashtrian jewellery is inspired by the Marathas and Peshwas. The Kolhapuri Saaj or necklace is a favourite among married Maharashtrian women. Crafted by Kolhapur's artisans, its varieties include the Kolhapuri Saaj, Mohanmal, Chaplahar, Pohehar and Putlihar. The names are based on different shapes and structures. In Mumbai, stop by the 101 year-old Waman Hari Pethe Jewellers for a slice of shining ethnicity. Choose from the Kolhapuri Saaj, Shindeshahi Tole (bangles) and Chandrahaar to the 23 carat gold Pohehaar (multi-chain necklace).
Where Pethe Building, Ranade Road, Dadar (West). Branches at Goregaon, Dadar. Andheri, Borivali and Vashi.
Call 24301592
Price range Rs 10,000 onwards
Shake a leg, the Koli way head to Mahatej and Suvarna Maharashtra
Why Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) has lined up a huge celebration to mark the state's foundation. Music bands from the Indian Navy and Mumbai Police will kickstart proceedings, followed by a music session by 200 artists of Yuvak Biradari at 6.30 pm. A grand laser show "Mahatej" will dazzle the city at 7.30 pm. To be displayed from Marine Drive to Raj Bhavan, it will re-create the state's history. Watch out for a fusion of music, light and fireworks. Suvarna Maharashtrau00a0-- a music, dance and drama extravaganza, will showcase the state's cultural experiences from 8 pm to 10 pm.
Where Girgaum Chowpatty. Entry is by invitation only. A special enclosure at Girgaum Chowpatty is provided for non-invitees.
Go the whole nine yards head to Roop Sangam
Why The Nauvari nine-yard sari and its unique draping is integral to Maharashtrian women. Today, it is still worn by Maharashtrians on special occasions like Gudi Padwa, Diwali and family poojas. For the best nine-yard saris, drop by the 40 year-old Dadar landmark, Roop Sangam, which offers prints in silk and cotton Nauvari sarees. Take your pick from colours and 12 styles including Jijamata, Rajmata, Paithani, Kanjeevaram, Shalu and Peshwai.
Where 385, NC Kelkar Road, Dadar (West).
Call 24220428
Read up onu00a0Puu00a0La and Va Pu head to Ideal Book Store
Why If you yearn for Marathi titles, or can't get that rare PL (Pu La) Deshpande comic book or a short story collection by VP (Va Pu) Kale, head to Ideal Book Store. This 73 year-old store was started by Narayan Nerulkar. Today, the third generation of Nerulkars run the show. "We offer over 1 lakh Marathi titles on topics ranging from fiction, non-fiction, biographies, health, astrology, cooking, childcare, religion and more," says Mandar Nerulkar, present owner. To encourage readers, they offer a flat 10% discount on orders worth Rs 200 and above. If you're in the mood for more, walk a few paces to the 103 year-old Dadar Sarvajanik Vachanalaya, a library which stocks over 75,000 Marathi language books. It's monthly fees? Only Rs 45!
Where 50, Narayan Smruti, Chabildas Road, Dadar (West).
Call 24302126 / 24304254
Price range Rs 5 to Rs 1,000
Gorge on yummy Thalipeeth head to Aaswad Upahar and Mithai Gruha
Why Traditional Maharashtrian cuisine has stood the test of time and is still cooked the same way, except for the utensils. The emphasis is on spices with the addition of nuts. Thalipeeth and Misal remain high on the all-time favourite list. We suggest you head to Aaswad at Dadar to savour these traditional goodies. The eatery, started in 1986, offers the entire spreadu00a0-- Kothimbir Wadi, Sabudana Vada, Pithla Bhaji Bhakri, Pola Usal, Puran Poli and Ukdiche (steamed) Modak with coconut stuffings.u00a0
Where Wavda Building, LJ Road, Dadar (West).
Call 24451871
Price range Rs 20 to Rs 40
Other events around the city
Find out about Shivaji Maharaj, the multi-linguist
A Marathi play titled Shivba will be presented by 100 students from Thane. The play will trace Shivaji Maharaj's life, from his childhood till he turned 16. It will depict lesser known facts about the Maratha leader like hisu00a0 familiarity with many languages and his love for singing kirtans.
At Gadkari Rangayatan, Thane (West).
Call 9322680113
Calligraphic history of Maharashtra
Students of Achyut Palav School of Calligraphy will celebrate Maharashtra Day by holding an exhibition titled Aawaz Maharashtracha (The Voice of Maharashtra). The exhibition will show calligraphic art pieces based on famous Marathi poems, sayings and words of great saints done by the students.
At Shivaji Chowk, Sec 17, Vashi. till May 2, 9 am to 9 pmu00a0
Call 27891517
