history & culture•Mon, August 17, 2026•4 min read

A New Chapter for Mumbai’s Iconic Air India Building: Honoring 106 Martyrs

The Maharashtra government is set to permanently honor the 106 martyrs of the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement. Their names will be inscribed on the facade of the historic Air India building in Nariman Point.

Preserving History in the Heart of Mumbai

The iconic Air India building at Nariman Point is undergoing a transformation that reaches beyond architecture. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed officials to permanently inscribe the names of 106 martyrs of the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement on the building’s facade. This decision serves to immortalize the individuals who sacrificed their lives for the creation of a Marathi-speaking state.

The Air India building in Nariman Point, now set to become a site of historical tribute.

The Significance of the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement

The Samyukta Maharashtra Movement, active from 1956 to 1960, was a pivotal political and social struggle advocating for the formation of a separate Marathi-speaking state. The movement saw intense mobilization, and the 106 individuals remembered today remain an integral part of Maharashtra’s history. Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar emphasized that this tribute is designed to ensure their legacy continues to inspire future generations.

The project involves inscribing names on the building's facade near the entrance.
The initiative is backed by the state government to honor the historic struggle.
The Air India building, a landmark of Mumbai, provides a prominent space for this memorial.
The move is intended to foster a connection between modern-day residents and the state's foundational history.

These sacrifices remain an integral part of Maharashtra’s history and should inspire future generations for years to come.
— Ashish Shelar, Cultural Affairs Minister

Key Takeaways

106 names of martyrs from the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement will be displayed on the Air India building.
The decision was directed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
The site for the tribute is the facade of the newly renovated Air India administrative building.
The movement was instrumental in the formation of the current state of Maharashtra.
The tribute aims to ensure historical awareness for future generations.

FAQ

What was the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement?

It was a movement that advocated for the creation of a separate Marathi-speaking state between 1956 and 1960.

Where will the names of the martyrs be displayed?

The names will be inscribed on the facade of the Air India administrative building located at Nariman Point, Mumbai.

Why is the Air India building chosen for this honor?

The government chose this prominent site to serve as a permanent tribute to the sacrifices made during the state's formation.

Who approved this project?

The project was directed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, following a proposal from Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar.