Context
The birth anniversary of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar was recently observed, bringing renewed attention to her role as a distinguished ruler, administrator, and patron of cultural and religious institutions in the Maratha period.
About Ahilyabai Holkar
- Ahilyabai Holkar (1725–1795) was the ruler of the Malwa region under the Maratha Confederacy from 1767 to 1795. She was popularly known as “Punyashlok”, while historian John Keay referred to her as the “Philosopher Queen”.
- Born in Chondi in present-day Maharashtra, she married Khanderao Holkar and became part of the Holkar dynasty.
- Her husband was killed in the Battle of Kumbher (1754). After the deaths of her father-in-law Malhar Rao Holkar and her son Male Rao, she took charge of the Holkar state in 1767.
- She made Maheshwar in present-day Madhya Pradesh the capital of her kingdom and appointed Tukoji Rao Holkar as the commander of her army.
- Ahilyabai is best known for rebuilding the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and supporting the construction of temples, ghats, and rest houses at important pilgrimage centres.
- She promoted education and culture by supporting scholars, poets, and the establishment of gurukuls and schools.
- She encouraged the growth of the textile industry in Maheshwar, which later became famous for Maheshwari sarees.
- She also formed a women’s military unit, promoting women’s participation in defence and administration.
