NEWS: Prime Minister pays tribute to Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar on her birth anniversary

About Ahilya Bai Holkar (1725 - 1795)

• Visionary queen of the Holkar dynasty who ruled Malwa in the 18th century.
• Known as the “Philosopher Queen”.
• Born in village of Chondi, Ahmednagar (Maharashtra).
• Married to Malhar Rao Holkar.
• After the deaths of her husband, father-in-law and son, she took charge of Malwa in 1767 (Indore was one of the major cities).

Key Contributions

• She promoted trade, textile industries, education and public welfare.
• Established a textile industry in Maheshwar, famous for Maheshwari Sarees.
• Restored major temples like: Kashi Vishwanath Temple,Somnath Temple.
• Architectural Legacy: Build Maheshwar Fort (Ahilya Fort) on the banks of Narmada River.