Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav stated that the welfare initiatives undertaken by Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai 300 years ago, as well as the benchmarks of good governance she established despite numerous challenges, continue to be an inspiration for all of us today. Dr. Yadav was addressing a public gathering on Monday in Maheshwar, Khargone district—the city of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai—during the staging of the play ‘Rashtrasamartha Devi Ahilyabai Ki Punya Gatha, ’ organized by Vishva Manglya Sabha. On this occasion, Dr. Yadav also released a book on the life of Devi Ahilyabai, written by Ayushi Jain.
Dr. Yadav highlighted that Devi Ahilyabai not only served the Holkar Empire but also contributed to public welfare across the entire nation. During the Mughal era, efforts were made to destroy Sanatan culture, but Devi Ahilyabai, the daughter of Narmada, took up the mission of protecting it. She played a key role in restoring temples such as Somnath and Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga. She constructed river ghats throughout the country, generously helped the poor, promoted Maheshwari saree weaving to provide employment, encouraged trade, supported farmers, and set numerous milestones in justice and governance. History is filled with inspiring episodes from her life.