Pune | May 30, 2025 — Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis led a stirring youth dialogue titled ‘Yuva Prerna Samvad’ on the occasion of the 300th birth anniversary of Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar, celebrating the legendary queen’s enduring legacy of governance, justice, and cultural renaissance.
The event served as a platform to connect today’s youth with timeless values of leadership, service, and nationalism, exemplified by Holkar’s life and rule. Organized by the Government of Maharashtra, the program witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, youth leaders, and dignitaries across the state.
Ahilyadevi Holkar, who ruled the Malwa kingdom in the 18th century, is widely revered for her progressive governance, empowerment of women, and restoration of Hindu temples across India. She is credited with constructing or renovating hundreds of temples, dharmashalas, and ghats, including iconic structures in Kashi, Somnath, Kedarnath, and Rameshwaram.
Leaders at the event hailed her as a pioneer of social reform who enforced land reforms, fought against the exploitation of farmers and weavers, and promoted indigenous industries long before the term “self-reliance” became popular.
Her legacy also includes the formation of a women-led military unit, a justice system known for its impartiality, and efficient water conservation and welfare systems — accomplishments that remain models of governance even today.
CM Fadnavis called upon the youth to draw inspiration from Ahilyadevi’s life, stating,
“Her ideals are not of the past. They are a blueprint for the future — of inclusive development, strong governance, and deep-rooted cultural pride.”
In a historic gesture, the Maharashtra Cabinet held a special meeting in Chaundi, Ahilyadevi Holkar’s birthplace, and announced multiple initiatives inspired by her vision, including rural development schemes and cultural heritage projects.
Ministers Chandrakant Patil, MLA Vikrant Patil, MLA Yogesh Tilekar, MLA Shankar Jagtap, and other leaders were also present, underscoring the event’s political and cultural significance.
More than just a tribute, “Yuva Prerna Samvad” aims to spark a statewide movement — bringing Lokmata Ahilyadevi Holkar’s fearless, just, and service-oriented leadership into contemporary discourse, particularly among India’s next generation.
