Marathi newspapers have played a crucial role in shaping public opinion in Maharashtra since the 19th century. Maharashtra has a rich history of Marathi journalism, with several newspapers playing a vital role in the Indian independence movement and later in shaping the state's politics and culture. Marathi is the primary language of the state, and most newspapers in Maharashtra are published in Marathi.
History:
The first Marathi-language newspaper, Durpan, was published in 1832 by Balshastri Jambhekar in Mumbai. The paper was an important voice for social reform and played a critical role in the Indian freedom struggle. Since then, the Marathi print media industry has grown significantly, with several newspapers being published throughout the state.
Newspapers:
Some of the top Marathi-language newspapers in Maharashtra include:
Lokmat: Founded in 1971, Lokmat is one of the largest circulated Marathi newspapers in the state, with a daily circulation of over 18 lakh copies.
Sakal: Founded in 1932, Sakal is one of the oldest and most respected Marathi newspapers in Maharashtra, with a daily circulation of over 16 lakh copies.
Maharashtra Times: Founded in 1962, Maharashtra Times is a leading Marathi newspaper in the state, with a daily circulation of over 9 lakh copies.
Pudhari: Founded in 1937, Pudhari is one of the most widely read Marathi newspapers in Maharashtra, with a daily circulation of over 7 lakh copies.
Saamana: Founded in 1989, Saamana is the official newspaper of the Shiv Sena political party and has a daily circulation of over 2 lakh copies.
Loksatta: Founded in 1948, Loksatta is one of the most respected Marathi newspapers in Maharashtra, known for its critical analysis and investigative journalism.
Divya Marathi: Founded in 2011, Divya Marathi is a relatively new Marathi newspaper that has quickly gained popularity in Maharashtra.
Overall, Marathi newspapers have a significant readership in Maharashtra and play a crucial role in shaping public opinion in the state. The Marathi print media industry has a rich history, and several newspapers have played a vital role in the state's politics and culture.
List of Marathi News Papers popular in Maharashtra like Sandhyanand, Deshdoot, Tarun Bharat, Lokamat, Daily Kesari, Maharashtra Times, Dainik Aikya etc. are included in this section.