State Formation Day November 1: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala And More

State Formation Day November 1: A number of Indian states and union territories celebrate their formation day on November 1 every year. These include Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu, along with five UTs: Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Delhi, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry.

Most of these states were formed under the States Reorganisation Act of 1956, which grouped regions based on language and cultural identity. Over the years, November 1 has come to symbolise unity in diversity; a day when people celebrate their state’s history, culture, and achievements.

Here is a quick look at the states that mark their formation on November 1:

How Andhra Pradesh Was Formed

Andhra Pradesh was the first Indian state created

on a linguistic basis. It officially came into existence on November 1, 1956, when the state of Hyderabad was divided, and Telugu-speaking regions were merged to form Andhra Pradesh. The event marked the beginning of India’s linguistic reorganisation of states.

Karnataka’s Rajyotsava Day

Karnataka, earlier known as Mysore, was reorganised on November 1, 1956, by merging all Kannada-speaking regions. Every year, people across the state celebrate this day as Karnataka Rajyotsava, marked by flag hoisting, parades, and cultural performances. Bengaluru and Mysuru host large-scale events showcasing the state’s pride and traditions.

Kerala’s Cultural Legacy

On the same day in 1956, Kerala was formed by merging the regions of Malabar, Cochin, and Travancore. The southern state is known for its scenic backwaters, literacy rate, and cultural diversity. Formation Day in Kerala is celebrated with cultural events and discussions about the state’s progress and history.

Madhya Pradesh Foundation Day

Located in central India, Madhya Pradesh was reorganised on November 1, 1956. The state celebrates Madhya Pradesh Foundation Day with parades, cultural performances, and state awards recognising citizens for their contributions. The celebration highlights the spirit of unity and progress.

Chhattisgarh’s Journey Since 2000

Chhattisgarh is one of the newer states, created on November 1, 2000, after being carved out of Madhya Pradesh. Known as the “rice bowl of India,” it is rich in minerals, forests, and culture. The day is marked with folk performances, exhibitions, and government programs celebrating local traditions.

Punjab and Haryana: The Shared Date

Both Punjab and Haryana were formed on November 1, 1966. Punjab was reorganised to give Punjabi speakers their own state, while Haryana was created for Hindi-speaking regions. Punjab observes the day with pride in its cultural and agricultural heritage, while Haryana celebrates its success in sports, farming, and industry.

Tamil Nadu’s Early Beginning

Tamil Nadu, originally called Madras, was created on November 1, 1956, and later renamed on July 18, 1967. The state celebrates its strong language and culture, which have remained central to its identity since independence.

Union Territories That Celebrate

Five Union Territories: Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Delhi, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry also mark their formation on November 1. Each celebrates in its own way, reflecting local heritage and diversity.