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The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA),  in collaboration with the Lokmata Ahilyabai Trishatabdi Samaroh Samiti, organized a special lecture on the life and legacy of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, titled ‘Devi Ahilya – Empress Renunciate’. The lecture was delivered by Prof. Uma Vaidya, former Vice-Chancellor of Kavikulaguru Kalidas Sanskrit University, Ramtek, Maharashtra. The event was chaired by Padma Vibhushan Dr. Sonal Mansingh, a former Member of Parliament and Trustee of IGNCA. Adding to the distinguished presence was Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of IGNCA, and Prof. ShashiPrabha Kumar, Chairperson of IIAS, Shimla. Prof. Richa Kamboj , HoD, Kaladarsana Division was also present.  The enriching session delved into the extraordinary life of Devi Ahilyabai, a ruler whose leadership, compassion, and foresight continue to inspire generations.

Professor Uma Vaidya gave an in-depth discussion on the social, cultural, and administrative contributions of the people’s queen, Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. She presented an elaborate and insightful account of Ahilyabai Holkar’s 70 years of life and work, focusing on the meanings of the words Devi and Ahilya. While delivering her lecture Prof. Vaidya said, “It is a great privilege to speak about Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, a masterpiece in God’s creation. Her life exemplifies the values of a true leader-someone who not only ruled with grace but nurtured her people like her own children. Etymologically, the name ‘Ahalya’ can be interpreted as ‘unploughed land,’ symbolising purity and pristine nature. The name Ahilya embodies purity, symbolising strength and resilience. This essence resonates with Devi Ahilyabai’s character, reflecting her unwavering determination and virtuous leadership. Through her life and actions, she exemplified the qualities her name represents, leaving an enduring legacy of compassion and dedication.

 In Indian tradition, the term Devi is used not only to signify a ‘shining lady’ but also denotes divinity. Ahilyabai’s leadership embodied this divine essence, as she cared for her subjects (Praja) with the devotion of a mother, earning her the title of ‘Lokmata’. Ahilyabai’s life trajectory is both inspiring and rare, particularly during an era dominated by foreign rule. Her contributions spanned economic, political, diplomatic, and military domains, complemented by her philanthropy and commitment to public service. She stands as an exemplar of a woman ruler who balanced strength and compassion, values and action. Ahilyabai truly deserves the title ‘Empress Renunciate’- a leader who wielded power selflessly for the welfare of her people. She epitomised values, character, and a spirit of renunciation, leaving an indelible mark as a woman leader whose impact transcends time.

In her chair address, Dr. Sonal Mansingh highlighted various events from Devi Ahilyabai's life, shedding light on her remarkable personality and accomplishments. She mentioned that during Raghoba's intent to attack Indore, Devi Ahilyabai displayed exemplary courage, foresight, and strategic acumen, serving as a source of inspiration for all of us. Meanwhile, Prof. Shashi Prabha Kumar introduced the programme and later presented a summary of Prof. Uma Vaidya's speech to the audience.

Expressing his thoughts, Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi said, "It is a matter of pride for us that the entire nation is celebrating the tri-centenary of ‘Punyashloka’  Ahilyabai. Commemorating her 300th birth anniversary is a way to honour our social commitment and recall the spirituality deeply ingrained in our country. We all know that the kind of work Ahilyabai Holkar accomplished amidst the complex challenges of her time can serve as an inspiration to anyone. At the end of the program, Professor Richa Kamboj expressed her gratitude to the speakers, guests, and visitors.
 

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Sunil Kumar Tiwari

E-mail: pibculture@gmail.com

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