Mumbai: Maharashtra’s city of ‘Ahmednagar’ is set to undergo a name change to ‘Ahilyanagar’ in honour of the esteemed 18th-century Maratha queen, Ahilyabai Holkar. The proposal to rename the city was officially approved by the Maharashtra Cabinet on Wednesday.
This decision to rename Ahmednagar was initially announced by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in May last year.
The city’s current name, Ahmednagar, was derived from Ahmed Nizamshah, the founder of the Nizamshahi dynasty and the town itself in the 15th century. This move follows the renaming of Aurangabad to Sambhaji Nagar and Osmanabad to Dharashiv in 2022, replacing the names that were associated with Mughal emperors Aurangzeb and Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan, respectively.
Who was Ahilyabai Holkar
Ahilyabai Holkar was the formidable Rani of Indore, situated within the Maratha Confederacy. Renowned for her leadership and vision, she established Maheshwar, located in present-day Madhya Pradesh, as the capital of the Holkar Dynasty.
Following the passing of her husband, Khande Rao Holkar, and her father-in-law, Malhar Rao Holkar, Ahilyabai assumed the reins of the Holkar dynasty. She took charge of the state’s affairs and displayed remarkable prowess in governance. Notably, she defended the Malwa state against external threats and personally led military campaigns, with Tukoji Rao Holkar serving as her trusted military commander.
Ahilyabai Holkar’s legacy extends beyond politics and military strategy. She earned admiration for her patronage of Hindu temples and Dharmashalas (rest houses) across the Indian Subcontinent, showcasing her commitment to religious and social welfare causes.
Moreover, Ahilyabai Holkar shattered traditional gender norms prevailing in 18th-century India, demonstrating extraordinary resilience and leadership qualities that transcended societal expectations. Her remarkable contributions continue to inspire generations, leaving an indelible mark on Indian history.
Rise to fame
According to legend, Ahilyabai Holkar’s rise to prominence began when Malhar Rao Holkar, a distinguished commander in the army of Maratha Peshwa Baji Rao and ruler of Malwa, halted in Chandi during his journey to Pune. It was there that he encountered the eight-year-old Ahilya, engrossed in temple service within the village. Impressed by her devoutness and exemplary character, Malhar’s son, Khande Rao Holkar, wedded Ahilya upon the counsel of the Peshwa.
Ahilya and Khande Rao were married in 1733, and she accompanied him on numerous military campaigns. Throughout their union, Ahilya was guided and nurtured by her mother-in-law, Gautama Bai, who is revered for the values she instilled in Ahilya. Gautama Bai provided her with comprehensive training in administration, finance, politics, and other essential skills. Eventually, in 1759, Gautama Bai entrusted Ahilya with her Khasgi Jagir, marking a significant milestone in her journey toward leadership and governance.
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