1. Aurangabad: Paithani sarees Woven with pure silk and zari (gold thread), each saree is a piece of art, often taking months to complete.
The hallmark of Paithani lies in its vibrant peacock and lotus motifs, and intricate borders inspired by Ajanta Cave murals.
2. Amravati: Oranges Often dubbed ‘California of India’, this district produces sweet, juicy citrus that finds its way into homes across the country.
3. Mumbai: Vada pav The humble potato fritter sandwiched in pav (bread roll), slathered with chutneys, and served with a green chilli on the side is the lifeline of Mumbai.
4. Raigad: Alphonso mangoes Known for its saffron-coloured flesh, rich aroma, and melt-in-the-mouth texture, the hapus from this region is unmatched.
Grown along the Konkan coast, these mangoes are a summer ritual, often auctioned for thousands due to their demand and delicate cultivation process.
5. Kolhapur: Kolhapuri chappals Kolhapur is also famed for the Kolhapuri chappals — handcrafted leather slippers that are as durable as they are stylish.
Traditionally made by local artisans using vegetable-tanned leather, these chappals are famed for their intricate designs and comfort.
6. Satara: Strawberries and kandi pedha Nestled in the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar in Satara district grows over 85 percent of India’s strawberries.
Beyond fresh produce, Satara also delights sweet lovers with its iconic kandi pedha, a soft, milky treat that has become a must-have souvenir.
7. Solapur: Solapuri chaddars The lightweight, colourful cotton bedsheet is known for its durability and distinctive geometric patterns.
A staple in households across Maharashtra, these chaddars are still woven on traditional handlooms and have earned the GI (Geographical Indication) tag.
8. Jalgaon: Tribal crafts The Bhil and Pawara communities are known for their crafts, from bamboo items to handcrafted jewellery and murals.
9. Yavatmal: Cotton Known as the ‘white gold’, cotton has shaped the region’s economy and identity. While farmers have faced challenges due to erratic rains and market fluctuations, cotton continues to power the region’s textile industry, supporting generations of growers and weavers.
10. Palghar: Warli art Practised predominantly by the Warli tribe, this monochrome art form uses simple geometric shapes to depict rituals, farming scenes, and daily life.
It is created on mud walls using rice paste and bamboo sticks and is both minimalistic and deeply philosophical.