Ahilya Bai Holkar at 300: the Queen who built a ‘Just India’ from the Ground Up
TINA KHATRI
Indore
In a time when kings ruled from thrones and courts, Ahilya Bai Holkar ruled from the hearts of her people. As India marks 300 years since her birth, she is remembered not only as a queen but as a compassionate reformer, a grassroots visionary, and a symbol of inclusive governance.
When European monarchies and Indian rulers concentrated on and local lords or zamindars collected hefty taxes, Malwa plateau was living far ahead in development and future with the first-ever decentralized system of governance.
Ahilya Bai’s contributions extended far beyond royal courts. She envisioned and implemented a system of grassroots governance that put power in the hands of the people. She restored temples across the country, championed water conservation, built rest houses and free kitchens, and elevated Indore from a modest outpost to a thriving capital. Importantly, she welcomed all—irrespective of caste, class, or culture—into her system of rule, a radical and humane act in 18th-century India.
Ahilya Bai did not seek to dominate; she sought to uplift. In a deeply hierarchical society, she embraced people across caste, class, and culture, offering them justice, dignity, and opportunity. Her legacy includes village self-rule, public infrastructure, water management, social welfare, and the restoration of India’s spiritual heritage—all built with an ethos of service and equity.
Grassroots Governance: A Vision Ahead of Its Time
Ahilya Bai introduced a decentralized model of administration that empowered village communities and anticipated the values of democratic governance long before they were formalized in India.
She appointed village elders and local officers to manage justice, welfare, taxation, and conflict resolution.
Communities in villages such as Hatod, Rau, and Mhow became models of participatory, accountable governance.
Her system allowed for equity and justice, accessible even to the marginalized, setting her apart from the centralized governance of Mughal India or feudal Europe.
This model later influenced the structure of India’s Panchayati Raj institutions.
Water Management and Agricultural Reforms
Ahilya Bai’s reign marked a transformation in agricultural development, particularly in semi-arid regions like Malwa.
She expanded the Rajwada Canal System near Indore to improve irrigation.
Commissioned and renovated tanks, check dams, and step wells to harvest rainwater.
Directed the creation of village-level irrigation channels, ensuring water reached even the most remote fields.
Constructed embankments along the Narmada and Kshipra Rivers for flood control.
These innovations improved agricultural output, supported rural livelihoods, and many structures remain in use or are preserved today.
Shelter and Sustenance for All
Ahilya Bai institutionalized compassion through the establishment of dharamshalas (rest houses) and annadan (charitable kitchens).
Built across major pilgrimage and trade routes, including in Maheshwar, Ujjain, Omkareshwar, and Prayagraj.
These services were open to all, regardless of caste, class, or religious background.
They provided essential support to pilgrims, traders, and rural travelers during a time when long-distance journeys were physically demanding and dangerous.
Her example inspired later models of community kitchens, particularly in Central India.
Urban Development and Indore’s Transformation
Ahilya Bai strategically developed Indore into a governance and commercial hub.
She invested in fortifications, public buildings, step wells, and marketplaces.
Encouraged local industries by supporting weavers, artisans, and traders, boosting the region’s economy.
Addressed water scarcity by building tanks and wells, ensuring the city’s sustainability.
Spiritual Leadership and Temple Restoration
Ahilya Bai was a deeply devout ruler who undertook the monumental task of restoring and constructing temples across the Indian subcontinent.
Temples restored or built under her patronage include:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka (Gujarat)
Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, Trimbak (Maharashtra)
Omkareshwar Temple, Madhya Pradesh
Ahilyeshwar Temple, Maheshwar
Rajrajeshwar Temple, Maheshwar
Devguradia Temple, Indore
Temples in Sundernagar and Mahur (Maharashtra)
Temples in Narsinghpur (Madhya Pradesh)
Pilgrimage facilities in Gaya (Bihar)
Temples in Nashik and Prayagraj (Allahabad)
Her work not only preserved religious heritage but also ensured that spiritual spaces were accessible to all—not restricted by caste or sect.
A Legacy That Lives On
Ahilya Bai passed away in 1795, only four years after the Jam Darwaza was completed. Yet her legacy is very much alive.
Village governance traditions around Indore still echo the systems she created.
The temples, canals, and public buildings she commissioned continue to serve communities.
She is remembered not as a conqueror or expansionist, but as a mother-figure, a protector, and a visionary reformer.
Venerated as “Devi Ahilya”, she represents the ideal blend of spirituality and statecraft.
Garudh Tirth @Indore
Devguradia Shiva Mandir situated in the village of Devguradia, which is 8 km from Indore on the Nemawar road. The temple is a monolithic rock temple, which was built in the 7th century. Ahilya Bai Holkar ordered the reconstruction of this temple in 18th century. Popularly known as Garuda Tirth, this temple has a water outlet in the shape Gomukh.
Ahilyabai warned… Peshwas about the British…
“Other beasts, like tigers, can be killed by might or contrivance, but to kill a bear it is very difficult. It will die only if you kill it straight in the face, Or else, once caught in its powerful hold; the bear will kill its prey by tickling. Such is the way of the English. And given this, it is difficult to triumph over them.”
Life Timeline of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar
May 31, 1725 – Birth (Age 0)
Born in Chondi village, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, into a Marathi Brahmin family.
1733 – Discovered by Malhar Rao Holkar (Age 8)
Malhar Rao, impressed by her intelligence and character, arranged her marriage into the Holkar family.
1735 – Marriage to Khanderao Holkar (Age 10)
Married the son of Malhar Rao Holkar; moved to the Holkar royal household.
1754 – Death of Khanderao Holkar (Age 29)
Her husband died in the siege of Kumbher during a Maratha military campaign.
1766 – Death of Malhar Rao Holkar (Age 41)
Her father-in-law and mentor passed away; she began managing the affairs of the state.
Shortly after, her only son Malerao Holkar also passed away.
1767 – Became Ruler of the Holkar State (Age 42)
Ascended the throne and shifted the capital to Maheshwar, on the Narmada River.
Began her reign marked by justice, inclusivity, welfare, and spiritual development.
1767 to 1795 – Reign as Queen of Malwa (Ages 42 to 70)
Implemented grassroots rural governance
Built or restored 8,527 temples and 950 forts/dharamshalas
Commissioned public works like canals, tanks, roads, stepwells, and rest houses
Reconstructed Kashi Vishwanath Temple in 1780 (Age 55)
Empowered women through employment and military training
Offered spiritual patronage without discrimination of class, caste, or culture
1793 – Visit by foreign dignitaries (Age 68)
Declined military offers from French commander Dudernaic and American commander J.P. Boyd, affirming her belief in peace over war.
August 13, 1795 – Passed Away (Age 70)
Died in Maheshwar after a 28-year-long reign.
Cremated near the banks of the Narmada River, where a memorial stands today.
Jam Darwaza: A Monument of Compassion
contributed by Bharat Dholi
The Jam Darwaza, completed in 1791, is one of the many enduring symbols of Ahilya Bai’s unique leadership.
Located over 50 kilometers south of Indore, it marks the transition between Malwa and Nimar.
When toll collector Ganpat Rao offered collected taxes to the queen, she instructed him to use the funds to build a resting gateway for travelers.
The structure, now known as the Gateway of Ahilya Bai, exemplifies her approach to governance—practical, empathetic, and public-focused.
She commissioned 8,527 temples and 950 forts
Daughter-in-law of Malhar Rao Holkar, the founder of the Holkar dynasty in Malwa (1728), Ahilyabai was a ruler who stood apart. Her kingdom was renowned for peace, prosperity, justice, and human welfare. In an era with no formal courts, lawyers, or judges, justice under Ahilyabai was free, fair, and fast—delivered with wisdom and compassion. She possessed 86 sacred texts collected from Benares, Pune, and Chandwad, which she either read personally or heard from her family guru Ambadas Pant.
What makes Ahilyabai truly remarkable is that, unlike many rulers who focused only on their territories, she thought of the nation. Across India, she commissioned 12,672 constructions, including 8,527 temples and 950 forts. She rebuilt iconic shrines such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1780) in Varanasi and the Somnath Temple in Gujarat, both of which had been destroyed during Mughal invasions.
Her efforts to unify the spiritual landscape of India were profound—she revived and promoted the Kawad Yatra, connecting Kashi to Rameshwaram and Dwarka to Jagannath Puri, along with 40 other pilgrimages. She made handwritten copies of scriptures and gifted them to visiting dignitaries in Maheshwar, her capital by the holy Narmada. She also offered Maheshwari sarees to guests, showcasing local craftsmanship.
Long before the modern concept of women’s empowerment emerged in the West, Ahilyabai provided employment and military training to hundreds of women. Notably, when Raghoba Dada Peshwa threatened her kingdom with 50,000 soldiers, she countered not with violence but with a powerful letter—foiling the attack without shedding a drop of blood.
Her fame spread beyond India. In 1793, French commander Dudernaic and American commander J.P. Boyd visited her, offering military services. She declined, saying, “I don’t believe in war; I believe in peace.”
Even British officials like Sir John Malcolm and poets like Joanna Baillie admired her. Baillie published a book of poetry Ahilya Baee in 1849, inspired by Malcolm’s memoirs. I had the honour of translating these into Hindi and Marathi.
Let us pay heartfelt tribute to our noble queen on 31 May 2025—a day to remember the timeless spirit of Ahilyabai Holkar.
- contributed by Dr NG Kale, former Professor, Holkar College & Devi Ahilya University
TINA KHATRI
Indore
In a time when kings ruled from thrones and courts, Ahilya Bai Holkar ruled from the hearts of her people. As India marks 300 years since her birth, she is remembered not only as a queen but as a compassionate reformer, a grassroots visionary, and a symbol of inclusive governance.
When European monarchies and Indian rulers concentrated on and local lords or zamindars collected hefty taxes, Malwa plateau was living far ahead in development and future with the first-ever decentralized system of governance.
Ahilya Bai’s contributions extended far beyond royal courts. She envisioned and implemented a system of grassroots governance that put power in the hands of the people. She restored temples across the country, championed water conservation, built rest houses and free kitchens, and elevated Indore from a modest outpost to a thriving capital. Importantly, she welcomed all—irrespective of caste, class, or culture—into her system of rule, a radical and humane act in 18th-century India.
Ahilya Bai did not seek to dominate; she sought to uplift. In a deeply hierarchical society, she embraced people across caste, class, and culture, offering them justice, dignity, and opportunity. Her legacy includes village self-rule, public infrastructure, water management, social welfare, and the restoration of India’s spiritual heritage—all built with an ethos of service and equity.
Grassroots Governance: A Vision Ahead of Its Time
Ahilya Bai introduced a decentralized model of administration that empowered village communities and anticipated the values of democratic governance long before they were formalized in India.
She appointed village elders and local officers to manage justice, welfare, taxation, and conflict resolution.
Communities in villages such as Hatod, Rau, and Mhow became models of participatory, accountable governance.
Her system allowed for equity and justice, accessible even to the marginalized, setting her apart from the centralized governance of Mughal India or feudal Europe.
This model later influenced the structure of India’s Panchayati Raj institutions.
Water Management and Agricultural Reforms
Ahilya Bai’s reign marked a transformation in agricultural development, particularly in semi-arid regions like Malwa.
She expanded the Rajwada Canal System near Indore to improve irrigation.
Commissioned and renovated tanks, check dams, and step wells to harvest rainwater.
Directed the creation of village-level irrigation channels, ensuring water reached even the most remote fields.
Constructed embankments along the Narmada and Kshipra Rivers for flood control.
These innovations improved agricultural output, supported rural livelihoods, and many structures remain in use or are preserved today.
Shelter and Sustenance for All
Ahilya Bai institutionalized compassion through the establishment of dharamshalas (rest houses) and annadan (charitable kitchens).
Built across major pilgrimage and trade routes, including in Maheshwar, Ujjain, Omkareshwar, and Prayagraj.
These services were open to all, regardless of caste, class, or religious background.
They provided essential support to pilgrims, traders, and rural travelers during a time when long-distance journeys were physically demanding and dangerous.
Her example inspired later models of community kitchens, particularly in Central India.
Urban Development and Indore’s Transformation
Ahilya Bai strategically developed Indore into a governance and commercial hub.
She invested in fortifications, public buildings, step wells, and marketplaces.
Encouraged local industries by supporting weavers, artisans, and traders, boosting the region’s economy.
Addressed water scarcity by building tanks and wells, ensuring the city’s sustainability.
Spiritual Leadership and Temple Restoration
Ahilya Bai was a deeply devout ruler who undertook the monumental task of restoring and constructing temples across the Indian subcontinent.
Temples restored or built under her patronage include:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka (Gujarat)
Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, Trimbak (Maharashtra)
Omkareshwar Temple, Madhya Pradesh
Ahilyeshwar Temple, Maheshwar
Rajrajeshwar Temple, Maheshwar
Devguradia Temple, Indore
Temples in Sundernagar and Mahur (Maharashtra)
Temples in Narsinghpur (Madhya Pradesh)
Pilgrimage facilities in Gaya (Bihar)
Temples in Nashik and Prayagraj (Allahabad)
Her work not only preserved religious heritage but also ensured that spiritual spaces were accessible to all—not restricted by caste or sect.
A Legacy That Lives On
Ahilya Bai passed away in 1795, only four years after the Jam Darwaza was completed. Yet her legacy is very much alive.
Village governance traditions around Indore still echo the systems she created.
The temples, canals, and public buildings she commissioned continue to serve communities.
She is remembered not as a conqueror or expansionist, but as a mother-figure, a protector, and a visionary reformer.
Venerated as “Devi Ahilya”, she represents the ideal blend of spirituality and statecraft.
Garudh Tirth @Indore
Devguradia Shiva Mandir situated in the village of Devguradia, which is 8 km from Indore on the Nemawar road. The temple is a monolithic rock temple, which was built in the 7th century. Ahilya Bai Holkar ordered the reconstruction of this temple in 18th century. Popularly known as Garuda Tirth, this temple has a water outlet in the shape Gomukh.
Ahilyabai warned… Peshwas about the British…
“Other beasts, like tigers, can be killed by might or contrivance, but to kill a bear it is very difficult. It will die only if you kill it straight in the face, Or else, once caught in its powerful hold; the bear will kill its prey by tickling. Such is the way of the English. And given this, it is difficult to triumph over them.”
Life Timeline of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar
May 31, 1725 – Birth (Age 0)
Born in Chondi village, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, into a Marathi Brahmin family.
1733 – Discovered by Malhar Rao Holkar (Age 8)
Malhar Rao, impressed by her intelligence and character, arranged her marriage into the Holkar family.
1735 – Marriage to Khanderao Holkar (Age 10)
Married the son of Malhar Rao Holkar; moved to the Holkar royal household.
1754 – Death of Khanderao Holkar (Age 29)
Her husband died in the siege of Kumbher during a Maratha military campaign.
1766 – Death of Malhar Rao Holkar (Age 41)
Her father-in-law and mentor passed away; she began managing the affairs of the state.
Shortly after, her only son Malerao Holkar also passed away.
1767 – Became Ruler of the Holkar State (Age 42)
Ascended the throne and shifted the capital to Maheshwar, on the Narmada River.
Began her reign marked by justice, inclusivity, welfare, and spiritual development.
1767 to 1795 – Reign as Queen of Malwa (Ages 42 to 70)
Implemented grassroots rural governance
Built or restored 8,527 temples and 950 forts/dharamshalas
Commissioned public works like canals, tanks, roads, stepwells, and rest houses
Reconstructed Kashi Vishwanath Temple in 1780 (Age 55)
Empowered women through employment and military training
Offered spiritual patronage without discrimination of class, caste, or culture
1793 – Visit by foreign dignitaries (Age 68)
Declined military offers from French commander Dudernaic and American commander J.P. Boyd, affirming her belief in peace over war.
August 13, 1795 – Passed Away (Age 70)
Died in Maheshwar after a 28-year-long reign.
Cremated near the banks of the Narmada River, where a memorial stands today.
Jam Darwaza: A Monument of Compassion
contributed by Bharat Dholi
The Jam Darwaza, completed in 1791, is one of the many enduring symbols of Ahilya Bai’s unique leadership.
Located over 50 kilometers south of Indore, it marks the transition between Malwa and Nimar.
When toll collector Ganpat Rao offered collected taxes to the queen, she instructed him to use the funds to build a resting gateway for travelers.
The structure, now known as the Gateway of Ahilya Bai, exemplifies her approach to governance—practical, empathetic, and public-focused.
She commissioned 8,527 temples and 950 forts
Daughter-in-law of Malhar Rao Holkar, the founder of the Holkar dynasty in Malwa (1728), Ahilyabai was a ruler who stood apart. Her kingdom was renowned for peace, prosperity, justice, and human welfare. In an era with no formal courts, lawyers, or judges, justice under Ahilyabai was free, fair, and fast—delivered with wisdom and compassion. She possessed 86 sacred texts collected from Benares, Pune, and Chandwad, which she either read personally or heard from her family guru Ambadas Pant.
What makes Ahilyabai truly remarkable is that, unlike many rulers who focused only on their territories, she thought of the nation. Across India, she commissioned 12,672 constructions, including 8,527 temples and 950 forts. She rebuilt iconic shrines such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1780) in Varanasi and the Somnath Temple in Gujarat, both of which had been destroyed during Mughal invasions.
Her efforts to unify the spiritual landscape of India were profound—she revived and promoted the Kawad Yatra, connecting Kashi to Rameshwaram and Dwarka to Jagannath Puri, along with 40 other pilgrimages. She made handwritten copies of scriptures and gifted them to visiting dignitaries in Maheshwar, her capital by the holy Narmada. She also offered Maheshwari sarees to guests, showcasing local craftsmanship.
Long before the modern concept of women’s empowerment emerged in the West, Ahilyabai provided employment and military training to hundreds of women. Notably, when Raghoba Dada Peshwa threatened her kingdom with 50,000 soldiers, she countered not with violence but with a powerful letter—foiling the attack without shedding a drop of blood.
Her fame spread beyond India. In 1793, French commander Dudernaic and American commander J.P. Boyd visited her, offering military services. She declined, saying, “I don’t believe in war; I believe in peace.”
Even British officials like Sir John Malcolm and poets like Joanna Baillie admired her. Baillie published a book of poetry Ahilya Baee in 1849, inspired by Malcolm’s memoirs. I had the honour of translating these into Hindi and Marathi.
Let us pay heartfelt tribute to our noble queen on 31 May 2025—a day to remember the timeless spirit of Ahilyabai Holkar.
- contributed by Dr NG Kale, former Professor, Holkar College & Devi Ahilya University
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