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Ahilyabai born on 31st May 1725 in the village of Chaundi in Ahmednagar was a daughter of India who was far ahead of her time. She eradicated many social evils in India 300 years ago. Whether it was promoting girls’ education, advocating for women’s rights, riding into battle during times of crisis, or working to uplift and enrich society, Ahilya was a modern woman and ruler in every sense.
Ahilyabai was a devout devotee of Lord Shiva, compassionate, generous, philanthropic, farsighted, and a strong woman dedicated to literature, music, and the arts. These very qualities of her personality transformed her from an ordinary farmer’s daughter into the esteemed daughter-in-law of the Holkar family. It is said that Malhar Rao Holkar wished for a daughter-in-law who could not only support his son but also help manage his kingdom, as his son, Khanderao, was not very
Ahilyabai took many impactful steps for the education and advancement of women, ranging from establishing educational institutions to supporting widow remarriage actions that were far from easy in the circumstances of that era
interested in governance and lacked his father’s valor. Once, while returning from a campaign Malhar Rao Holkar stopped at the village of Chaundi. It was evening, and the village Shiva temple was resonating with the sounds of the Aarti. The melodious hymns caught Malhar Rao’s attention, captivated him and left a deep impression on him. As he approached, he saw a 7-8 year old girl whose face radiated peace and whose voice was enchanting. After knowing the identity of the girl, Malhar Rao Holkar meets her father Mankoji Shinde and at his request, stayed as their guest that night. After dinner, he asked for Ahilya’s hand in marriage for his son, a proposal that Mankoji Shinde gladly accepted. Thus at the age of eight, Ahilya became the queen of the Holkar family. Ahilya truly lived up to those expectations. The seeds of devotion to religious texts and a sense of service to elders, which had been sown in her heart along with her education at her father’s home, enabled Ahilya to win everyone over. Her father Mankoji Shinde went against the system of that time and paid special attention to his daughter’s education, which was rare for girls at that time. This education empowered Ahilyabai later on and Ahilyabai did remarkable work in this direction.
Ahilyabai took many impactful steps for the education and advancement of women, ranging from establishing educational institutions to supporting widow remarriage actions that were far from easy in the circumstances of that era. She even brought significant changes in the legal system for the welfare of widows, as their condition at the time was dire, and in fact, becoming a sati after a husband’s death was seen as their only option. When her own husband passed away, Ahilyabai herself wished to become a sati, but her father-in-law persuaded her otherwise. She changed her mind and became alert and devoted to her responsibilities. Ahilyabai never hesitated to challenge centuries-old mindsets, and she began this transformation with her own life and household. For example, she married her daughter Muktabai into a poor family, defying social norms of the time. She made difficult decisions with great courage and clarity. Ahilyabai possessed the strong and influential personality needed to eradicate such social evils, and she led the way in doing so.
One thing that is especially worth noting here is that the influential personality of Ahilyabai is not only contributed by her parents and family background, but her mother-in-law Gautama Bai and father-in-law Malhar Rao Holkar also have a special contribution. She learned household management from her mother-in-law and the art of governance from her father-in-law. After the death of her husband Khanderao in the Battle of Kumbher in 1754, Ahilyabai became actively involved in state politics or state affairs. Under the guidance and support of Malhar Rao Holkar, she developed a deep understanding of military strategies and administrative responsibilities. Ahilyabai always displayed extraordinary courage in defending her kingdom. She was never shaken by threats from invaders. She led her troops from the front, always staying with her soldiers rather than confining herself to issuing orders from afar. Throughout her realm, her primary efforts were directed toward promoting peace, security, and cooperation. Her reign was both unforgettable and remarkable, and will always be remembered. Her efforts toward ideal governance, exemplary justice, and social and cultural prosperity can never be forgotten. In a male-dominated society, she established herself as a powerful force a testament to her visionary thinking and her influential personality that united everyone together.
One of the greatest qualities of Ahilyabai Holkar’s character was her deep sense of justice. Her commitment to justice was so strong that it is said she was even prepared to sentence her own son to death
The life of Ahilyabai Holkar, a dedicated devotee of Lord Shiva, was never easy. Like Shiva, she too had to drink poison and like Shiva’s divinity, her personality kept improving with every blow. Ahilyabai gradually lost her husband, father-in-law, son and daughter, but her courage, love and devotion towards her subjects kept increasing with time. There was no decline in it. Ahilyabai gradually lost her husband, father-in-law, son, and daughter-one after another but her courage, love, and dedication toward her people only grew stronger with time. There was never any sign of decline in her spirit.
One of the greatest qualities of Ahilyabai Holkar’s character was her deep sense of justice. Her commitment to justice was so strong that it is said she was even prepared to sentence her own son to death. There is an incident often recounted: once, her son Male Rao was passing through a market in Indore when, due to his carelessness, a calf was injured by his chariot and died on the spot. Ahilyabai was deeply saddened by this event and ordered that her son be tied up, just like the voiceless animal, and left on the road as punishment. When this was done, no one dared to drive a chariot down that road. Eventually, Ahilyabai herself took a chariot along the path, but the mother of the calf-the cow-kept blocking her way. People believed this was a sign that the cow wanted to forgive, and only then did Ahilyabai pardon her son. Since then, the market has been known as Ada Bazaar. Such was Lokmata Ahilya. She communicated with her people daily. From a young age, she had a liberal outlook toward society and a compassionate heart for the helpless. She always enjoyed the support of the common people and the army and despite facing much opposition, she set new benchmarks in every field.
After the death of her son Malerao in 1767, Ahilyabai took power in her hands. At this time some people had an evil eye on the mourning Malwa but Ahilyabai was not unaware, she could see the entire public, she could see her responsibility which had increased more than ever before. Sensing the situation, she immediately began preparations: provisions and weapons were gathered, and even a contingent of women was trained for defense. Ahilyabai herself was ready to lead from the front.
As soon as she came to know that Raghoba has come on the other side of Shipra river, he wrote a letter to Raghoba he clearly wrote in the letter that as soon as your army comes on this side of Shipra river, our sword will be used, your wish will not be fulfilled. If we lose, there will be no ridicule in the world, but if you lose, then think whether you will be able to show your face to women after losing. Reading this letter, Raghoba was stunned and exclaimed, “Are these the words of a helpless woman or a lioness?” His resolve faltered, and he abandoned his plans. In this way, Ahilyabai won the battle without fighting. In fact, Ahilyabai won many battles without ever having to fight. During her reign, no one dared to attack Malwa, even though the entire Indian subcontinent was embroiled in power struggles at the time. Such was the powerful and commanding personality of Ahilyabai Holkar.
Ahilyabai, the extraordinary personality who brought stability to the Holkar state, was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. She would write “Shri Shankar” on all her royal decrees. The coins of her time bore the image of Nandi, and the rupee coins featured depictions of Lord Shiva and the sacred Bel leaf. She would not even drink water before performing her prayer. Such was the unwavering devotion of Mother Ahilya to Lord Shiva. Ahilyabai was responsible for the reconstruction of countless temples, including the Kashi Vishwanath and Somnath temples. From Badrinath, Dwarka, and Omkareshwar to Puri, Gaya, and Rameshwaram, her contributions can be found at almost every major pilgrimage site. She built 100 temples and 30 dharamshalas as
From Ahilya to Ahilyabai Holkar, and then gradually to Lokmata, Punyashlok, and Devi, Ahilyabai Holkar earned these revered titles. This is a matter of pride not only for the Marathas but for all of Indian history
well as countless wells and ghats. Her role in preserving India’s religious heritage is truly significant. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which had been destroyed by Aurangzeb in 1669, was rebuilt and restored by Ahilyabai Holkar in 1780. For this invaluable contribution we will always remain grateful to her. When the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the Kashi Vishwanath Dham Corridor in Varanasi, a statue of the Maratha Empire’s queen was also installed within the corridor. Undoubtedly, this is a small tribute compared to your immense contributions. What cannot be achieved in many lifetimes, you accomplished in one — it was your extraordinary personality that kept providing strength. In this way, you preserved the sacred pilgrimage sites.
Ahilyabai’s personality also left an indelible mark as a patron of literature, music, art, and industry. Under her leadership and support, the city of Maheshwar flourished and prospered. Maheshwar became a thriving commercial center, and the Maheshwari sarees produced there gained worldwide fame. Ahilyabai extended her patronage not only to artisans but also to scholars and musicians, which created a vibrant, positive, and nurturing cultural environment. She spent crores of rupees of his personal money for social upliftment and made every possible effort for the traders and weavers. She also made a special contribution in social festivals and not only this, he eradicated the menace of dacoits and Pindaris from his kingdom forever.
She gave them the responsibility of those routes on which they used to loot. In this way, she taught the Bhil and Gond tribes to live peacefully. To stay close to the common people, she started living in the pilgrimage place Maheshwar permanent residence. She became the mother of all. She used to listen to everyone’s pain like an elderly person and solve it. At a time when the land was plagued with chaos, tyranny in the name of governance, and the common folk farmers, laborers, and householders were in a miserable state, the people of Maheshwar were truly blessed to be under the divine care and guidance of Ahilyabai. Having never witnessed such a majestic and compassionate personality before, people began to refer to and revere Ahilyabai as a Devi a living goddess in one united voice.
Ahilyabai Holkar’s personality was so vast and influential that her fame spread not only across India but also far beyond its borders. She is often compared to Russia’s Catherine the Great, England’s Queen Elizabeth, and Denmark’s Queen Margrethe I. The British historian John Keay referred to Ahilyabai as “the Philosopher Queen.” The life and character of Ahilyabai Holkar will continue to inspire and guide generations.
From Ahilya to Ahilyabai Holkar, and then gradually to Lokmata, Punyashlok, and Devi, Ahilyabai Holkar earned these revered titles. This is a matter of pride not only for the Marathas but for all of Indian history. These events are recorded on the golden pages of history. History itself is proud and joyful to have preserved her legacy. The personality of Mother Ahilya will always be remembered with deep respect and reverence. The following lines are truly fitting for your entire life and character:
I am agile, I am patient, I am the very the very foundation.
I am power, I am brilliance, and yet I am helplessness itself.
I am the essence of destiny, the soul of the universe.
I am the mighty current entwined in Shiva’s locks.
(Dr. Charushila Singh is a litterateur)