To mark the simultaneous occurrence of Anant Chaturdashi and Eid-e-Milad on Thursday, the 28th, the state government has decided to declare Friday, September 29, as a government holiday. This decision aims to facilitate the efficient management of crowds and procession arrangements during the Ganesha immersion and Eid-e-Milad celebrations.
In this context, the executive committee of the All India Khilafat Committee requested a meeting with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. They advocated for a government holiday on September 29 to ensure the maintenance of peace in the state and enable effective coordination of the police force for crowd control and procession management. Prominent members of this executive committee included Rahul Shevale, MLA Abu Azmi, MLA Raees Khan, Naseem Khan, and others.
Govt holiday on Friday makes it 5-day weekend
The announcement of a government holiday on Friday has brought good news for office-goers in Maharashtra, resulting in a 5-day weekend:
September 28, Thursday: Anant Chaturdashi
September 29, Friday: Eid (Govt declared holiday)
September 30, Saturday
October 1, Sunday
October 2, Monday: Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti
CM appeals devotees to maintain peace
CM Shinde has appealed to devotees to maintain peace during this period, stating, "On Anant Chaturdashi, we offer our heartfelt devotion to Lord Ganesha. Even during the immersion process, we must maintain discipline and a peaceful atmosphere." He also invited Ganesha devotees to ensure that the Ganesh immersion and Eid celebrations proceed peacefully and harmoniously.
"In the past ten days, the arrival of Lord Ganesha has created an auspicious atmosphere. In the upcoming days, we have festivals such as Eid, followed by Navratri, and Diwali. All of us should celebrate these festivals with unity and devotion, further enriching the state's traditions," added the CM.
Regarding law and order during the Ganesh festival, CM Shinde commended the diligent efforts of the police force in maintaining peace throughout the state. He also acknowledged the Ganesh Mandal committees for adhering to regulations, ensuring that this beloved festival concludes joyously.
Eid-e-Milad Greetings from the Chief Minister
Chief Minister Shinde extended warm Eid-e-Milad greetings, emphasizing, "Eid-e-Milad is a festival of togetherness and love. Let us use this occasion to foster mutual respect, affection, and camaraderie." He also highlighted the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, which emphasise sacrifice and love, urging everyone to draw inspiration from them and work towards increasing mutual respect and affection.