Maharashtra is one of the largest states in India, both in terms of population and area. Its booming capital Mumbai, makes it not only one of the most important states economically, but also a major gateway for overseas visitors.
The name Maharashtra first appeared in a 7th century inscription and in a Chinese traveller's account. Its name may have originated from 'rathi', meaning 'chariot driver', referring to builders and drivers of chariots, who were known as 'maharathis', or 'fighting force'.
The physical character of Maharashtra is predominantly that of a plateau. The Western Ghats flank the western coast of the state. The Satpura range covers the northern part of the state, while the Ajanta and Satmala ranges run through the central part. Maharashtra is contiguous to the Arabian Sea on the western side, while Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh are its neighbours on the northern side. The eastern part of Maharashtra has its boundary with Madhya Pradesh, and on its southern side are the states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. The third - largest state of India, both in area and population, Maharashtra was formed in 1960, when the Marathi and Gujarati linguistic areas of the former Bombay state were separated. Bombay (Mumbai) city became the capital of the new state.
| State Capital | Mumbai | ||
| Population('000s in 1991) | 78,937 | ||
| Area('000 sq.Km) | 308 | ||
| Females per 1000 males(1991) | 934 | ||
| Literacy rate (1991) | 64.9 | ||
| Ratio of urban population(1991) | 38.7 | ||
| Net Domestic Product | 754,810(Rs.) | ||
| Per Capita Income | 10,984(Rs) | ||
| Principal language | Marathi |