New Delhi, Aug 13: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan paid heartfelt tributes to the legendary warrior queen and devout ruler, Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, on her death anniversary today.

In a commemorative tweet, Pradhan honoured her enduring legacy, describing her as a “supreme devotee of Lord Shiva” and a beacon of administrative excellence and cultural preservation.

““I respectfully pay homage to the supreme devotee of Lord Shiva, the great warrior queen 'Lokmata' Devi Ahilyabai Holkar on her death anniversary. Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, in her lifetime, performed extraordinary work not only in administrative skills but also for the upliftment of religion, culture, and society. During her reign, an atmosphere of peace and prosperity prevailed in Malwa and throughout India. She not only rebuilt the Kashi Vishwanath Temple but also preserved other religious sites, which reflects her deep religious faith. Her foresight and efforts toward women’s empowerment continue to be a source of inspiration for all of us today, ” tweeted Pradhan.

Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, who ruled from 1767 to 1795, is remembered as one of India’s most enlightened and benevolent monarchs. Her legacy lives on through the temples she restored, the policies she enacted, and the progressive values she championed.

Ahilyabai Holkar was the Rajamata and later the ruling queen of Indore within the Maratha Empire. She established Maheshwar (in Madhya Pradesh) as the seat of the Holkar Dynasty. A beloved figure of Indian history, she is renowned for good governance, social welfare, and humanitarian work along with religious, educational, and cultural advancements.

She contributed to the growth of Indian architecture through the commission of various temples, Ghats, and Dharmshalas. Ahilyabai's Matha, or charitable endowments, spread across India. She is remembered as a Sadhvi, or holy woman.

After the deaths of her husband Khanderao Holkar, father-in-law Malhar Rao Holkar, and son Male Rao Holkar, Ahilyabai undertook the affairs of the Holkar dynasty. She defended Indore against invasions and personally led armies into battle, with her brother-in-law Tukoji Rao Holkar serving as her military commander.

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