The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla, commemorated the 300th birth anniversary of Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar with a powerful and inspiring special lecture titled “Ahilyabai Holkar: The Universal Icon of Women Empowerment.”
The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Chandrakala Padia, Chair of the Lokmata Ahilyabai Tricentenary Celebration Committee and former Chairperson of IIAS. A renowned political scientist and gender studies scholar, Prof. Padia described Ahilyabai not just as a queen, but as a visionary leader who transformed governance into compassionate service.
“She redefined power through empathy, justice, and duty. Her leadership remains a timeless example of ethical governance,” Prof. Padia stated.
Tracing Ahilyabai’s extraordinary journey from a widow confined by tradition to one of India’s most revered monarchs, Prof. Padia highlighted her revolutionary role in history. As a ruler of Malwa, Ahilyabai Holkar is credited with restoring India’s sacred geography — from Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi to Somnath and Rameswaram — by building temples, ghats, wells, and rest houses that still serve pilgrims today.
“She was a maternal sovereign, deeply accessible to her people, holding daily public hearings and ruling with grace, resolve, and fairness,” Prof. Padia added. Her model of inclusive leadership and women’s empowerment continues to inspire globally.
The event opened with inaugural remarks by Prof. Shailendra Raj Mehta, Vice-Chairman of IIAS, while Prof. ShashiPrabha Kumar, Chairperson of the IIAS Governing Body, presided over the session, adding philosophical depth to Ahilyabai’s enduring legacy.
A poetic tribute and welcome address by Akhilesh Pathak, SPRO, IIAS, set the tone for the commemorative event, which concluded with the National Anthem.
Scholars, fellows, and participants from across India attended the hybrid session, making it a significant national tribute to a woman who reshaped India’s spiritual and political fabric.
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