Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, May 14
BJP National Mahila Morcha General Secretary Deepti Rawat on Wednesday said that Ahilyabai Holkar is remembered across India not only as a queen but also as a divine figure who embodied strength and wisdom. Ahilyabai, who ruled the Holkar Maratha Empire in the 18th century, was the wife of Khanderao Holkar and daughter-in-law of the influential Subedar Malhar Rao Holkar. She chose Maheshwar as her capital and led with remarkable foresight.
Speaking at a workshop organised at the BJP headquarters in Shimla on the occasion of Ahilyabai Holkar Jayanti, Rawat announced that the BJP would highlight Ahilyabai’s inspiring life through a series of state-wide programmes focused on women’s empowerment. She said Ahilyabai’s vision was not limited to royal administration but extended to building a progressive and inclusive state.
Ahilyabai Holkar’s economic and social reforms were far ahead of their time. Her support for artisans and promotion of the cotton industry boosted the regional economy. The Maheshwari saree, which she helped popularise, remains a symbol of India’s rich textile heritage. Rawat underlined that her legacy still resonates and provides a model of leadership that combines economic vision with moral strength.
The party’s campaign, inspired by Ahilyabai’s life, will be carried out at both state and national levels. Senior BJP leaders including State President Dr Rajeev Bindal, General Secretaries Trilok Kapoor and Bihari Lal Sharma, and BJP Mahila Morcha State President Vandana Guleria participated in the planning session and pledged full support to the initiative. The BJP intends to connect younger generations with the values of resilience, justice and compassion that Ahilyabai Holkar championed.
