Mumbai: In a landmark decision on Monday, the Maharashtra government declared the cow the “Rajya Mata (Mother of the State),” highlighting its deep cultural, religious, and agricultural significance. This historic move positions Maharashtra as the second Indian state to confer such a title, following Uttarakhand, which recognized the cow as the “Rashtramata” (Mother of the Nation) in 2018.
The decision was formalized through a government order, which emphasizes the role of the cow in Indian society, dating back to the Vedic period. The order not only acknowledges the religious importance of the cow but also its contributions to agriculture and Ayurvedic medicine.
The Maharashtra government’s statement elaborates on the cow’s vital role in Ayurvedic and Panchagavya medicine. Panchagavya, a traditional treatment method, utilizes cow’s milk, urine, dung, ghee, and curd to treat various ailments. This ancient practice has gained renewed recognition for its potential health benefits. Cow urine, in particular, is lauded for its widespread use in organic farming, where it plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable agriculture.
Moreover, for centuries, the cow has held a revered position in Hinduism, where it is affectionately referred to as “Gomata” (Mother Cow). Cow-related products, such as urine and dung, are considered sacred and are frequently used in religious rituals and ceremonies. Furthermore, cow’s milk is not only regarded as nutritionally valuable but also carries spiritual significance within Hindu beliefs.
Furthermore, the cow has long been a symbol of religious and cultural identity in India. According to ancient beliefs, various deities reside within the cow, and it has been honored as a mother figure since the Vedic era. By declaring the cow as the “Rajya Mata,” the Maharashtra government seeks to further reinforce this traditional reverence, while strengthening the state’s cultural and religious values.
The decision also considers the cow’s substantial contribution to organic farming. Cow urine is widely used as a natural pesticide and fertilizer in agriculture, enhancing soil health and crop productivity. The government emphasized this point in its declaration, citing the cow’s utility in promoting eco-friendly and sustainable farming practices.
Religious and social organizations across Maharashtra have widely praised the government’s decision. By declaring the cow as the “State Mother,” the Shinde-led cabinet aims to elevate the societal status of the cow and foster greater respect for it.
