In Bhartiya philosophy and culture, three ideologies stand out for their profound influence on individual development and societal progress: ‘Bal’, ‘Buddhi’, and ‘Vidya’. These timeless principles offer a holistic framework for personal growth, emphasising the harmonious development of physical strength, intellectual capabilities, and acquired knowledge. ‘Bal’ goes beyond mere physical prowess to include resilience, stamina, and the ability to endure hardships. ‘Buddhi’, on the other hand, signifies intellect or wisdom. It encompasses the capacity for rational thought, discernment, and decision-making. ‘Vidya’ refers to knowledge or education. Together, Bal, Buddhi, and Vidya represent a comprehensive framework for personal development and societal contribution. Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar is the perfect depiction of Bal, Buddhi, Vidya, who holds an enigmatic charm mixed with resilience, power, wisdom and enlightenment.
Forged by tradition and family
Born in the village of Chondi in Jamkhed, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, in 1725, Ahilyabai’s journey from a simple village girl to the revered ruler of the Malwa kingdom is a testament to her remarkable leadership and compassionate governance.
According to traditional stories, throughout her marriage, Ahilya was nurtured and guided by her mother-in-law, Gautama Bai, whose influence is recognised for the deep-seated values that Ahilya embodied. Gautama Bai meticulously educated her in the realms of administration, accounting, and political acumen, culminating in the transfer of her own Khasgi Jagir to Ahilya in 1759.
Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar, the revered queen of the Malwa kingdom, her reign, spanning from 1767 to 1795, is often heralded as a golden era, marked by prosperity, justice, and the flourishing of arts and culture. Through her remarkable leadership and compassionate governance, Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar has etched an indelible mark in history, becoming a timeless symbol of empowerment and enlightenment.
She was titled “The Philosopher Queen” by British historian John Keay. He said in her admiration: ‘Ahilyabai Holkar, the philosopher-queen of Malwa, had evidently been an acute observer of the wider political scene.
Bal: Resilience, Social Empowerment & Military Achievements
Despite her peaceful and welfare-oriented governance, Rajamata Ahilyabai was also a formidable warrior. She strengthened her kingdom’s defenses and led her army with great skill. Her military campaigns against bandits and invaders showcased her strategic acumen and bravery, making her a symbol of ‘Bal’.
It is crucial to be noted that with the skills of governance within her grasp, Rajmata Ahilyabai reached out to Peshwa Madhav Rao I following the demise of Malhar Rao and her son, seeking his endorsement to oversee the administration of the Holkar dynasty. She protected the state of Malwa from external threats and even directly participated in military campaigns, with Tukoji Rao Holkar serving under her as the chief military leader.
In a beautifully penned letter from her father-in-law, Malhar Rao in 1765, we find a heartfelt testament to the immense trust he placed in Rajmata Ahilyabai’s capabilities, as he prepared her for a military campaign to Gwalior, accompanied by formidable artillery:
“Upon crossing the Chambal, make your way to Gwalior, where you shall rest for four or five days. It is imperative that you safeguard our heavy artillery, ensuring it is well-stocked with ammunition… The artillery must remain in Gwalior while you, having arranged for its upkeep for a month, advance further. Along your journey, establish military posts to secure the road.”
This communication reveals her profound military training but also her adeptness in managing both civil and military endeavours. At a time when Ahmad Shah Durrani was making his incursion into Punjab in 1765, and Malhar Rao engaged in combat against the Abdali-Rohilla coalition in Delhi, Ahilyabai showcased her strategic prowess by seizing the Gohad fort near Gwalior. Her journey reflects not just a tale of leadership and strategy but also a profound narrative of resilience and determination, painting her as a ruler of exceptional calibre and visualisation.
Buddhi: Governance and Administration
Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar’s legacy is a powerful narrative of leadership that transcends gender and era. As a ruler, Ahilyabai was a epitome of wise governance and fair administration. She personally took care of her kingdom’s development, focusing on agriculture, infrastructure, and the welfare of her people. She undertook the reconstruction of the Kashi Vishwanath Mandir, 118 years after it was demolished by the forces of multiple Muslim invaders, including Aurangzeb in 1699.
She is credited with the reconstruction of hundreds of temples, including the revered sites of Somnath Temple in Gujarat around 1783, Vishnupad Temple Gaya, Bihar in 1787, Gyanvapi Temple around 1780 CE and the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga near Ellora, Maharashtra.
Her reign noted the construction of roads, bridges, wells, and Dharamshala (rest houses), along with the restoration of numerous Hindu temples and the construction of new ones, underscoring her commitment to ‘Vidya’ and cultural preservation.
Her governance was marked by wisdom and fairness. She implemented policies that benefited her people and ensured justice. This quality highlights the importance of making informed, fair decisions in personal and professional life. Upon taking office in December 1767, she pledged the state to Shankar (Shiva), proclaiming her commitment to governing for the people’s welfare on behalf of Shankar, while considering herself merely a custodian. Her signature, “Shree Shankar,” adorned all official proclamations. She granted permission to the Bhil tribes, who had endured years of torment, to engage in farming peacefully.
Rajmata Ahilyabai implemented the 7/12 scheme, in which the state-financed both the expenses and cultivation of farmers, with profits to be shared between the state and the farmers. This initiative led to prosperity for both parties. Furthermore, she abolished all taxes for traders, with no additional taxes imposed beyond customs. As a result, her subjects felt comfortable openly showcasing their wealth. She ushered in a golden age for Malwa, which, though brief, brought significant effectiveness and progress. Ahilyabai’s philanthropic efforts extended beyond her kingdom. She donated generously to support the maintenance of pilgrimage sites across India, including Dwarka, Badrinath, and Rameswaram, demonstrating her deep-rooted spiritual beliefs and respect for all religions. This aspect of her reign highlights her embodiment of ‘Buddhi’—wisdom in understanding the diverse fabric of Indian spirituality.
Vidya: Education, Enlightenment and Welfare Initiatives
It is a matter of imagination. In an era when the doors of education were firmly shut for women, she stood out not just for her own pursuit of knowledge but also for her fervent advocacy for women’s education.
The 18th century was a tumultuous time for India, with invasions disrupting the fabric of society, including the education system that once flourished. Amidst this chaos, Ahilyabai emerged as a symbol of resilience and empowerment. She didn’t just dream of a future where women could learn freely—she actively worked towards making it a reality. Her dedication to reviving female education during such challenging times has made her an enduring inspiration, a role model encouraging generations of women to aspire, learn, and lead.
Ahilyabai’s dedication to education and wisdom was evident in her support for education and the arts. She established schools and libraries, and patronised scholars, poets, and artists, ensuring that knowledge and culture flourished in her kingdom. Her efforts in education were revolutionary, aiming to create a society that valued wisdom and learning. She empowered others, especially women, by providing opportunities for their advancement. Rajmata Ahilyabai also ensured that widows were permitted to adopt sons. In one instance, when her minister demanded a bribe for allowing adoption, she personally sponsored the child, providing clothes and jewels as part of the ritual.
While sharing my views, I realised Rajmata Ahilyabai had a clear vision for her kingdom, focusing on prosperity and progress. She teaches the importance of having a vision for one’s life, setting goals, and working diligently to achieve them. Under her reign, Maheshwar transformed into a hub for literature and the arts, with her support extending to numerous sculptors, artists, and craftsmen who were drawn to contribute to its buildings and fort. She implemented policies that benefited her people and ensured justice.
Her story resounds with the values of leadership, compassion, and resilience, making her a timeless figure in the annals of Indian history. As I echo on her contributions, I find in her a model of enlightened leadership that continues to guide and motivate me.
As we commence the celebration of the 300th Birth Anniversary of Punyashlok Devi Ahilyabai Holkar on May 31, 2024, her legacy continues epitomising the essence of commitment, duty, and virtue. Honouring her memory, let us aim to symbolise the virtues of valour, wisdom, and the pursuit of knowledge, following in the illustrious footsteps of Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar. Her life is a testimony to the fact that true leadership is about serving and uplifting others, a timeless lesson that continues to resonate across generations.
Devi Ahilyabai was committed to social transformation: Dattatreya hosabale
Devi Ahilyabai Holkar’s 300th Birth anniversary is commencing on May 31, 2024. Her life journey from a village girl of an ordinary background to an extraordinary ruler is a great source of inspiration even today. She was a unique example for duty, simplicity, commitment towards Dharma, administrative acumen, farsightedness, and magnificent chastity.
She was administered as the representative of Bhagwan Shankar with the royal seal of “Shankar Ajnevarun” (As per Shri Shankar’s orders). Her governance was ideal, with public welfare-oriented programs protecting the interests of landless farmers, tribal groups like Bhils, and widows. As an efficient ruler, Devi Ahilyabai was committed to social transformation, agricultural development, water management, environmental protection, people’s welfare and education and was also devoted to justice. The foundation of her administration had a vision based on harmony that provided honour, security and development to all sections of the society.
She paid special attention not only to her state, she made arrangements for the worship and financial management of the temples of the whole country. She renovated temples that were desecrated by the invaders, from Badrinath to Rameshwaram and Dwarika to Puri. The pilgrimages, which continued from ancient times and were disrupted during invasions, got a new breath of life due to her efforts. She got the title “Punya Shlok” because of these great efforts. The development of these sacred places, which are spread across Bharat, is a reflection of her national vision.
During the auspicious occasion of Punya Shlok Devi Ahilyabai’s 300th Year of Birth, all swayamsevaks and members of society should wholeheartedly participate in the programs organised in connection with it. The real tribute to her is to be at the forefront of the path of simplicity, character, religiosity, and national self-esteem shown by her.
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