Ahilya Mata Truly Embodied the Essence of Sanatan Culture: CM Dr. Yadav

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said that Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar played a pivotal role in spreading the essence of Sanatan culture. Throughout her 28-year reign in the 18th century, she exhibited remarkable administrative skills, a commitment to public welfare and exemplary governance. In celebration of her 300th birth anniversary, a series of events are being organized in Madhya Pradesh. During a national confrence hosted by the Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini Institute in the historically significant city of Pune, he paid tribute to the city and honored influential figures such as Shivaji Maharaj, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, whose legacies continue to inspire the nation. Dr. Yadav noted that Pune shares many similarities with cities like Indore and Ujjain.

Rajasthan Governor Shri Haribhau Bagde was also present in the programme. Padma Shri awardee Nivedita Tai Bhide, Vice President of Swami Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Dr. Ujjwala Chakradev, Vice-Chancellor of Shrimati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey Women’s University in Mumbai, and Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, office-bearer of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations and Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini Institute, also addressed the gathering.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav, on Tuesday was the chief guest at the Jankidevi Bajaj Institute of Management Studies auditorium in Pune, speaking on the topic “Punyashlok Ahilya Bai Holkar and Her Welfare-Oriented Good Governance.”

Dr. Yadav said that Pune showcases various facets of Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy, along with the contributions of the Scindia and Holkar dynasties. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between Peshwa Bajirao and the Scindias in safeguarding the Mahakal Temple in Ujjain during periods of threat from external invaders. Additionally, he remarked that the entire nation honors the bravery of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the welfare-oriented initiatives of Lokmata Ahilya Devi.

The Chief Minister noted the a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s constituency, Varanasi hightlighting that one can feel the spiritual ambiance of the temple, which was a gift from Ahilya Bai herself. She was instrumental in developing several key religious sites in places like Dwarka, Somnath and others. Her administrative acumen and wisdom were unparalleled. When some of her colleagues attempted to deceive her for personal gain, she continued to find solutions to challenges. She was a pioneer in initiating public works like the construction of wells, gardens, roads, food distribution centers and providing employment opportunities in agriculture.

Lokmata Ahilya Bai was a motherly figure who, despite personal struggles, governed in a way that exemplified universal welfare. Under her rule, funds were allocated not only for personal use but also for family and social welfare, a practice that the Dhangar and Yadav communities have carried forward, wherein a quarter of family income is dedicated to women. In Holkar dynasty’s system, known as “Khasgi. During those time the wealth of 18 crores, which today would be valued at over 2000 crores was used for various welfare projects. Ahilya Bai also presented examples of diplomatic and military strategies to protect her state, embodying both courage and wisdom.

Dr. Yadav added that Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar shifted her capital from Maheshwar to Indore in 1767. While Maheshwar is world-renowned for its Maheshwari sarees, Indore became a significant center for trade, culture, and the arts. Several monuments built during her reign in Indore still stand today. Besides Maheshwar, Ahilya Bai also developed the banks of the Narmada River in Omkareshwar, turning it into an important pilgrimage site. Numerous facilities were developed for pilgrims. Lokmata Ahilya Bai was primarily a follower of Lord Shiva. She constructed Shiv Temples at numerous places in the country.

Maheshwar: A Center of Handicrafts and Self-Reliance

The Chief Minister highlighted Maheshwar’s significance as a center of handicrafts, which serves as a symbol of self-reliance. The craftsmanship of this region has become a source of livelihood for thousands, fostering economic progress. Dr. Yadav also shared details about the events being planned in Madhya Pradesh to celebrate the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilya Bai Holkar.

CM Yadav Visits the ‘Shiv-Srushti’ Theme Park

CM Yadav, on Tuesday, visited Ambegaon (Pune), where he toured Asia’s only historical theme park, ‘Shiv-Srushti.’ Managed by the Maharaja Shiv-Chhatrapati Pratishthan Nyas, this theme park brings the life and struggles of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to life. The Chief Minister praised the activities of the institute in Pune.

The Shiv-Srushti theme park, spanning 21 acres, is worth Rs438 crore. The first two phases of the mega project have been completed, featuring exhibits of Maharashtra’s forts, a 5-D show of Shivaji Maharaj’s escape from Agra, an exhibition of weapons, and other interactive experiences centered around Shivaji Maharaj’s life. In the second phase, a rotational platform show titled ‘Swarajya, Swadharma, Swabhasha’ has been developed, capable of accommodating 100 viewers at a time.

The third phase will include the construction of the park’s entrance (Rang Mandal), a royal court, dark rides, a dam, landscaped areas, and an auditorium. The park has been designated as a ‘Mega Tourism Project,’ with over 70,000 visitors praising it since its inception.