Ahilyabai Holkar Remembered as a Timeless Icon of Empowerment at IIAS Shimla

Shimla, May 13, 2025 — A commemorative lecture on “Ahilyabai Holkar: The Universal Icon of Women Empowerment” was held today at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla, to mark the 300th birth anniversary of Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar. The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Chandrakala Padia, Chair of the Lokmata Ahilyabai Tricentenary Celebration Committee and former Chairperson of IIAS.

Prof. Padia highlighted Ahilyabai as a model of ethical governance and compassionate leadership. “She transformed the idea of sovereignty into service,” she said, recounting the Queen’s path from widowhood to one of the most beloved rulers in Indian history. Prof. Padia emphasized Ahilyabai’s widespread temple renovations—from Kashi Vishwanath and Somnath to Rameswaram—and her support for public welfare projects across the country.

Prof. Shailendra Raj Mehta, Vice-Chairman of IIAS, opened the event with welcoming remarks, and Prof. ShashiPrabha Kumar, Chairperson of the Governing Body, IIAS, presided over the session. Shri Akhilesh Pathak, SPRO, IIAS, presented a poetic tribute and anchored the event, which concluded with the National Anthem.

Scholars and attendees from across India, both online and offline, participated in the program, underscoring Ahilyabai Holkar’s enduring legacy.