26.01.2026: Address of the Governor on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day

Address of the Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Acharya Devvrat, to be delivered at the State Government Ceremony on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day on 26th January 2026 at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ground, Dadar, Mumbai.

I bow in reverence to Maharashtra, the sacred land of great saints and social reformers, and extend my heartfelt greetings to all the people of Maharashtra on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day of Indian Democracy.

I pay my humble and respectful tribute to all the martyrs who laid down their lives for the formation of the State of Maharashtra.

Maharashtra has been blessed with the noble legacy of great national leaders who devoted their entire lives to the causes of social equality, education, women’s empowerment, and the eradication of superstition.

I offer my respectful salutations to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule, Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Veer Savarkar, and all other social reformers and national leaders who shaped our Nation.

I extend my heartfelt greetings to the personnel of the Armed Forces and all students participating in today’s grand ceremonial parade.

This sacred day is a day to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to democracy, the Constitution, and our national duties. Democracy is not merely a system of governance; it is a way of thinking, a value system, and a culture.

Democracy ensures dignity for every individual, significance for every opinion, and accountability for every citizen.

Today, democracy has become the guiding philosophy for individuals, society, and the nation across all spheres. Participation, representation, accountability, public consensus, and fraternity form the very soul of democracy.

India’s democratic system is not only the largest in the world but also one of the most enriched and value-based. Our governance structure is three-tiered at the Centre, the State, and the local self-government levels. The purpose of this decentralised structure is not the concentration of power, but the delivery of services to the last citizen.

Democracy is not a concept borrowed from outside; it is deeply rooted in India’s civilisational ethos. Centuries before Europe’s Magna Carta, Guru Basaveshwara established the ‘Anubhava Mantapa’ as a forum for democratic deliberation. It served as a platform for discussions on social, economic, and political issues and is therefore regarded as India’s first parliament.

Acharya Chanakya’s Arthashastra mentions ancient republics such as Vaishali, clearly indicating that India has not merely followed democracy but has been its pioneer.

Republic Day reminds us of the greatness of our Constitution. It is a day to express our gratitude to the chief architect of the Constitution, Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, and all members of the Constituent Assembly for their invaluable contribution.

While dedicating the Constitution to the nation, Dr. Ambedkar had observed that although India had attained political independence, liberation from social inequalities was equally essential. Hence, the Constitution provides not only political equality but also social and economic justice.

Dr. Ambedkar emphasised that fraternity is indispensable to sustain liberty and equality. Differences of opinion may exist, but as long as the spirit of fraternity endures, democracy remains strong and vibrant.

Today, the principle of “Sarve Bhadrani Pashyantu” may all witness well-being must become the soul of our democracy. It is our collective duty to bind this diverse nation together with the thread of unity.

This year marks the completion of 150 years of our national song “Vande Mataram”, which inspired and energised the freedom movement. Even after one and a half centuries, its relevance and inspiration remain undiminished. The younger generation must embrace it not merely as a song, but as a call of duty and national service.

Along with India, Maharashtra too is progressing rapidly towards development, good governance, and self-reliance. Through the collective efforts of the government and society, the resolve of an Atmanirbhar Maharashtra is taking shape.

Good governance means ensuring the transparent and timely delivery of government schemes to every citizen. The success of democracy rests on the strong bond of trust between the government and the people.

Maharashtra is not merely a geographical entity; it is a powerful engine of India’s economic growth. Its saintly tradition, social awareness, and rich cultural heritage define its unique identity.

The coastline, the Sahyadri ranges, forests, forts, rivers, and plateaus make Maharashtra abundantly rich in natural resources.

Owing to its geographical and strategic advantages, Maharashtra is exceptionally well-suited for industrial development. Robust infrastructure, skilled human resources, and stable policies have made Maharashtra the preferred destination for investors.

Maharashtra leads the nation in roads, railways, ports, energy, and digital connectivity. It plays a leadership role at the national level in agriculture, industry, trade, and transport. Mumbai has played a decisive role in the economic development of the State.

Mumbai, the financial capital of the country, is home to major banks and financial institutions. The stock market and the film industry have further strengthened its economic power. As a major port city, Mumbai connects India to the global economy.

Cities such as Pune, Nagpur, Kolhapur, Nashik, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar are emerging as centres of education, industry, information technology, and innovation. These cities are accelerating Maharashtra’s balanced and inclusive development.

Maharashtra is a leading State in the field of cyber security in the digital era. Its enterprising and hardworking citizens are its greatest strength.

Maharashtra has consistently remained at the forefront in attracting foreign direct investment and has today emerged as a trusted destination for global investors. The State has set a clear and ambitious goal of becoming a one-trillion-dollar economy and is progressing resolutely towards becoming the leading State in the country.

Maharashtra is among the most literate States in India, and its institutions of higher education attract students from across the world. Active participation of citizens is essential to strengthen democracy.

Recently, municipal and municipal corporation elections were held in Maharashtra, and elections to the Zilla Parishads are currently underway.

I urge all eligible voters to exercise their right to vote.

Once again, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the people of Maharashtra on the occasion of Republic Day.

Let us all resolve together to build a prosperous and developed Maharashtra.
Jai Hind!
Jai Maharashtra!