We know about moguls plundering and demolishing our ancient temples but do we all know about a Rani who single-handedly using her own resources rebuilt over 30,000 temples ghats and Dharm shalas across the length and breadth of the Indian subcontinent? All this in a short span of 22 years and without any pomp and show also right under the nose of Moghul rulers
She is Rani Ahalya Bai Holkar of Indore a Maratha Queen
Please know more about the greatest Queen Ahalya Bai of Indore
Once upon a time, in the vibrant lands of India, a young girl named Ahilyabai Holkar was destined to become one of the greatest rulers the region had ever seen. Born in the humble village of Chondi in Maharashtra in 1725, little did anyone know that she would grow up to be an illustrious queen admired by her people and respected by all.
Ahilyabai’s father, Mankoji Shinde, was the patil of their village and recognized the value of education for his daughter. He personally took on the responsibility of her education, instilling in her the values of simplicity and piety. Little did he know that these qualities would play a significant role in shaping her destiny.
Fate, it seemed, had other plans for young Ahilyabai. Her virtues and character caught the attention of Malhar Rao Holkar, a distinguished commander in the army of Peshwa Bajirao. Impressed by her, Malhar Rao arranged her marriage with his son, Khande Rao, making her a bride in the esteemed Maratha community of the Holkars.
However, life had a tragic twist in store for Ahilyabai when her beloved husband, Khande Rao, lost his life in the fierce Battle of Kumbher in 1754. But fate wasn’t done with her yet. Malhar Rao took her under his wing and introduced her to the intricacies of administration and military affairs. Under his guidance, she proved her brilliance and capabilities, earning the respect of all who worked with her.
After Malhar Rao’s passing, Ahilyabai approached the Peshwa to grant her the authority to rule over the region. With the Peshwa’s approval, she ascended the throne of Malwa in 1766. Tukoji Holkar, a trusted military leader, stood by her side as she took on her role as a ruler. Ahilyabai proved herself to be a fearless warrior and a skilled archer, leading her loyal army into battles against the Bhils and Gonds, successfully protecting her kingdom.
Wise, just, and enlightened, Ahilyabai was a queen who genuinely cared for her people. She held daily public audiences in her court, making herself accessible to anyone in need. Her reign from 1767 to 1795 was marked by countless contributions to her kingdom. She utilized the state’s resources to build forts, rest houses, wells, and roads, enriching the lives of her subjects.
But her compassion extended beyond infrastructure. Ahilyabai championed the cause of widows, ensuring they retained their husband’s wealth and even facilitated the adoption of sons. She transformed Indore, her capital, from a modest village into a prosperous city, fostering the growth of literature, sculpture, music, and the arts.
Her devotion to religion and the construction of temples and pilgrimage centers earned her admiration from far and wide.
she is also accredited with renovating temples. Her most memorable activities include the construction of numerous temples and pilgrimage centers across an area extending from the Himalayas to South India, at sacred sites like Kashi, Gaya, Somnath, Ayodhya, Mathura, Hardwar, Dwarka, Badrinarayan, Rameshwar and Jaganathpuri.
Sadly, the magnificent reign of this exceptional queen came to an end in 1795 when she passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations. In recognition of her greatness, the Republic of India issued a commemorative stamp in her honor in 1996. The citizens of Indore instituted an award in her name, celebrating outstanding public figures, with the first recipient being Nanaji Deshmukh.
Ahilyabai Holkar’s life was a testament to the power of compassion, wisdom, and determination. She proved that greatness knows no gender and that a just ruler can leave an everlasting mark on the hearts of her people. Her story continues to remind us that the path to true greatness lies in selflessness, service, and a dedication to making the world a better place for all. May her memory live on as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
In spite of so many calamities in her personal life, she rendered great service to Hinduism
After Adi Shankara, Rani Ahalya Bai has done a great deal for the protection of Hinduism
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