From the time of the classic Mahabharatha the area called Vidharba is one besides Marathwada, which embraces the land of Maharashtra today. The first dynasty that ruled over the land of Maharashtra was the Mauryan dynasty. They ruled the land in the lap of luxury. After the fall of the Mauryan Empire, several other dynasties ruled the land of Maharashtra. During that time Maharashtra made rapid strides. Each of these dynasties left behind their distinctive marks till the 18th century after which the British came at power. The British have a strong role in making Maharashtra a powerhouse of India. In the year 1960, Maharashtra and Gujarat were separated giving statehood to Maharashtra