Ahilyabai and Khande Rao's Marriage in 1733.

At the age of eight, Ahilyabai was married to Khanderao, son of Malhar Rao, a commander in the service to Peshwa Bajirao. Malhar Rao had been deeply impressed by the young Ahilyabai's character and simplicity

Twelve years after the wedding, in the year 1745, Ahilyabai’s husband died during the siege of Kumbher fort. Grief stricken, it is said that Ahilyabai wanted to sacrifice herself by committing sati. But it was her father-in-law, Malhar Rao, who dissuaded her against it and instead, trained her in administrative and military matters.