May 1 is celebrated as International Labour Day across the world. But the date also holds special significance in India for other reasons. Both Gujarat and Maharashtra achieved statehood on May 1, 1960, and celebrates the occasion every year with fanfare.

Celebrated as Maharasthra Day, commonly known as Maharashtra Diwas, is a state holiday, commemorating the formation of the state from the division of the Bombay State on 1 May 1960. Maharasthra and Gujarat came into existence through the Bombay Re-organisation Act, 1960.

This year, EPIC channel will broadcast the celebrations by showcasing unique stories form the region in a daylong curated programming line-up from 12 pm to 7 pm.

There will be episodes of Sharanam in which Juhi Chawla will take viewers on a journey to Ganpatipule on the western coast of Maharasthra, the abode of a 400-year-old self-manifested idol of Lord Ganesha. One episode will be on Sai Baba of Shirdi and another will cover Mahalaxmi of Kolhapur who is eulogised as the reason for the prosperity of the city.

Kaha Suni will showcase episodes on Madhavpur Ghed in Gujarat, which traces the mystic romance of Lord Krishna’s wedding with Rukmini.

Adalaj Vav will tell the tale of Rani Radubai and the formation of the Adalaj Stepwell. And there will be a special edition of Lost Recipes hosted by celebrity chef Aditya Bahl that will revisit food history from the regions.

On Mumbai, the chef will cover the 2000 year old East Indian community and their cuisine, while on Gujarat he will re-discover 19th century recipes that are a mix of Persian and Gujarati flavours and cultures.

Speaking about the special content line-up, Akul Tripathi, Content & Programming Head, EPIC Channel, said, “We have always believed in celebrating India and days that are special for the people and the country.

Maharashtra and Gujarat are important weaves in the multi-coloured fabric of the country and their day of statehood is an opportunity to rejoice in the diversity of thought, culture, traditions, and histories and introduce them to the entire country.