Ahmednagar renamed Ahilyadevi Holkar Nagar

Tags: State News

Mumbai Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the renaming of Ahmednagar district in western Maharashtra to Ahilya Nagar, in honor of Ahilya Devi Holkar, an eminent ruler of the Malwa kingdom during the 18th century. 

An overview of the news

• The announcement was made during a ceremony commemorating Ahilya Devi's 298th birth anniversary in Ahmednagar. 

• The decision came in the wake of a controversy surrounding the temporary removal of statues of Ahilya Devi and social reformer Savitribai Phule from Maharashtra Sadan.

About Ahilya Devi Holkar

• Born on May 31, 1725, in the village of Chondi in Jamkhed, Ahmednagar, Maharani Ahilya Devi Holkar is recognized as one of the most accomplished female rulers in Indian history. 

• As a prominent ruler of the Malwa kingdom and a member of the Maratha Holkar clan, she championed the principles of dharma and promoted industrialization during the 18th century. 

• She encouraged trade and commerce, improved infrastructure, and supported the growth of industries.

• Her efforts played a crucial role in fostering economic development and prosperity in the region.

• As a tribute to her legacy, Indore's domestic airport has already been named Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport, and the Indore university has been renamed Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya.