Maharashtra

Lore & Background

The region that encompasses modern Maharashtra has a history going back many millennia. Notable dynasties that ruled the region include the Mauryas, the Satavahanas, the Western Satraps, the Abhiras, the Vakatakas, the Chalukyas, the Rashtrakutas, the Western Chalukyas, the Seuna Yadavas, the Khaljis, the Tughlaqs, the Bahamanis, the Mughals, and the Maratha Empire. In the early 19th century, the region was divided among major Maratha states including the Peshwa, the Bhonsles, the Holkars, the Scindias, and the Gaekwads, as well as the Nizamate of Hyderabad. Early in the 19th century, the British East India Company defeated the Marathas and brought most of present-day Maharashtra under its control, both directly and indirectly through many princely states.

Reader's Guide

Maharashtra is one of the most industrialised states in India and the single-largest contributor to India's economy, accounting for 14% of all-India nominal GDP. The service sector dominates the state's economy, accounting for 69.3% of the value of the output. The state capital, Mumbai, is India's financial and commercial capital, hosting the Bombay Stock Exchange and the National Stock Exchange. The state has played a significant role in the country's social and political life and is widely considered a leader in agricultural and industrial production, trade and transport, and education. Maharashtra is the ninth-highest ranking among Indian states in the human development index and is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus.

Did You Know?

• The term 'Maharashtra' may derive from 'the country of Mahars', though its exact etymology is uncertain.
• The state is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves.

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