Zee 24 TAAS, Maharashtra’s leading Marathi news channel, is proud to announce the telecast of Maharashtra Gaurav 2025 on 24th May 2025 at 9 pm IST. Held under the resonant theme ‘Pride of Maharashtra, Pride of the Youth’, the event is a celebration of individuals and institutions who have significantly contributed to enhancing Maharashtra’s identity and pride at both national and global levels. With an aim to inspire future generations and honour those making a difference, Zee 24 TAAS continues its legacy of spotlighting real stories of courage, creativity, and community impact.
The on-ground celebration witnessed the presence of distinguished dignitaries including Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Uday Samant, Minister for Industries and Marathi Language, and senior political leader Girish Mahajan. Their presence also reflected the significance of the occasion and reinforced the state’s commitment to celebrating those who represent the best of Maharashtra’s ethos and excellence. The evening was a powerful confluence of art, valor, social commitment, and cultural pride.
Among the proud recipients of the Maharashtra Ratna awards this year was acclaimed actress Shriya Pilgaonkar, who has emerged as a versatile force in both regional and Hindi cinema, as well as global streaming platforms. Daughter of veteran Marathi actors Sachin and Supriya Pilgaonkar, Shriya has carved her own path with a diverse portfolio and academic achievements including acting credentials from FTII and Harvard Summer School. Known for her multilingual fluency and classical singing, she represents the new-age Marathi pride.
Social entrepreneur and changemaker Raju Kendre was honoured for his transformative work in the education sector. As the Founder and CEO of the Eklavya India Foundation, Raju has tirelessly worked to uplift first-generation learners and underprivileged youth across rural and tribal belts of Maharashtra and Central India. Apashinge village in Satara, famously called ‘Military Apashinge,’ was honored for its remarkable military heritage. From World War I to the Kargil war, almost every household has contributed soldiers, many of whom have earned distinguished medals such as the Shaurya Chakra and Sena Medal. The village’s valor is now being considered for official recognition as Maharashtra’s first ‘Military Village.’
The Maharashtra Gaurav title was conferred upon music maestro Shankar Mahadevan.“The Maharashtra Gaurav award is a profound reminder of the cultural strength and artistic spirit that this state nurtures. As a son of Maharashtra, I have always drawn strength from its diverse musical roots—from classical ragas to folk rhythms. This award belongs as much to the culture that shaped me as it does to me. I hope it inspires young artists to stay connected to their roots while pushing creative boundaries,” highlighted Mahadevan.
Completing this year’s list of exceptional honourees was the musical band Abhang Repost, comprising six dynamic young artists—Dushyant Devrukhkar, Swapnil Tarfhe, Ajay Vawhal, Pratish Mhaske, Piyush Acharya, and Viraj Acharya. Fusing traditional devotional Abhangs with contemporary instrumentation, they have taken Marathi devotional music global, with performances across festivals and international stages. Their unique sound has not only preserved but also reimagined the spiritual richness of Maharashtra’s musical heritage.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Kamlesh Sutar, Editor of Zee 24 Taas, said, “At a time when we are redefining what progress and pride mean for Maharashtra, ‘Maharashtra Gaurav 2025’ stands as a relevant and powerful platform to spotlight those who truly make a difference. Zee 24 Taas is proud to honour individuals and communities who represent the very soul of our state—not just through their achievements, but through the values they uphold.”
Mr. Karan Abhishek Singh, CEO of Zee Media Corporation Limited (ZMCL), added further, “As we navigate a new era of digital and cultural transformation, Zee Media continues to stand by its mission to inform, inspire, and elevate. ‘Maharashtra Gaurav 2025’ is a timely celebration of those whose achievements are shaping not just Maharashtra’s narrative, but India’s future. We are proud that Zee 24 Taas is leading this purposeful initiative.”
Zee 24 Taas’ Maharashtra Gaurav 2025 is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary spirit that defines Maharashtra. Tune in on 24th May 2025, only on Zee 24 Taas, to witness the stories that make us proud, inspired, and united.
Zee Media Corporation Ltd, one of India’s leading media companies, has a strong presence in the news and regional genres, with 21 News channels, reaching more than 555+ million viewers in current year through its linear properties.
