During the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement, a movement for the formation of Maharashtra state,
based on a common linguistic identity, the folk art form of shahiri became the central force. Revolutionary artists Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe, Lokshahir Amar Sheikh and Lokshahir Sabale, firebrand performances gave
further edge in mobilising the people for the cause, which saw the formation of Maharashtra state on 1st May 1960.
Now, the art is dying a slow death, but, however, few individuals and groups are struggling to preserve shahiri and keeping it alive in recognition of its role, without much support from the government.Shahiri has been a part of Maharashtra's tradition for several hundred years, however, it received its widespread popularity during the rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji.
Originally, began as a form of oral history telling, shahiri as a form of poetry and singing has forayed into socio-political spheres and ideologies of different hues. Shahiris have evolved from depictions and evoking tales of war heroes to generate awareness on social issues and have been sloganeering revolutionary
with the power to move masses to instant action, Time and again shahiri was put at use to influence the mass opinions.
It is a link to our past and traditions, creating a strong bond between the masses and often urging them for a revolt.
Efforts at various levels have been mounted to save this art from slipping into oblivion. In an endeavour to revive cultural
legacy among youth, 71-year-old, shahir Ambadas Taware has been organising workshops since past several years, across the state,
which has witness enthusiastic participation.