Special Discussion in Pune on the 300th Birth Anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar — “Ahilyabai Holkar was Synonymous with Public Welfare and Good Governance,” says Governor

Jaipur : Governor Shri Haribhau Bagde stated that Ahilyabai Holkar was a pioneering woman who not only laid the foundation for public welfare and good governance in the country but also upheld and nurtured the traditions of Indian spirituality and religion. He described Ahilyabai as a visionary ruler who governed in the people’s interest while spreading the values of Indian culture and spirituality.

Shri Bagde made these remarks during a discussion on ‘Matoshree Ahilyabai’s Public Welfare and Good Governance,’ held in honor of her 300th birth anniversary at SNDT College in Pune on Tuesday. He urged people to learn from Ahilyabai’s exemplary governance, highlighting how she chose Maheshwar as her capital due to her devotion to Maa Narmada, treated her subjects as her own children, and dedicated herself to public welfare. He noted that during her reign, Ahilyabai abolished several taxes that were not in the public’s interest. He also emphasized the importance of drawing inspiration from her efforts in supporting agriculture, facilitating industries, establishing the textile industry in Maheshwar, and working tirelessly to address the concerns of the common people.

The Governor further recalled Ahilyabai’s contributions to promoting Indian culture and tourism through pilgrimage. He highlighted her work in constructing Dharamshalas at religious sites, restoring temples destroyed by Mughal invaders, building ghats along rivers, and constructing wells and stepwells for the community—earning her the title of “Lok-Mata.” He stressed that Ahilyabai’s legacy of public welfare and good governance should be taught to the younger generation, especially on the occasion of her 300th birth anniversary.

Visited Exhibition and Planted Trees—

The Governor also visited an exhibition on Ahilyabai Holkar’s life organized at the college and participated in a tree-planting ceremony.

Governor’s Visit to Sant Tukaram Ashram—

Earlier, Governor Shri Bagde visited Sant Tukaram Ashram in Pune, where he offered prayers and reflected on Sant Tukaram’s teachings. He encouraged others to adopt the saint’s ideals in their lives. During his visit, he also fed cows in the Ashram’s Gaushala and urged people to engage in acts of charity.