An Artistic Rendition of Ahilyabai Holkar

Ahilyabai Holkar is regarded as one of the finest female rulers in Indian history. As a ruler of Malwa kingdom, she spread the message of dharma and promoted industrialisation in the 18th century. Known for her wisdom and administrative skills, Ahilyabai had a humble beginning in a small village, near the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. She was born in Chondi to the village head, Mankoji Shinde, on May 31, 1725. Women did not go the school during that time, but her father himself educated her and taught her how to read and write.