Ahalya Holkar
Ahalya Holkar, d. 1795, Maharani of Indore, 1765-95. One of the most famous rulers of India, she was the daughter of one Manakoji Shinde of Aurangabad, and was married in 1743 when only eight years of age to Khande Rao, the son of Malhar Rao’ Holkar (d. 1766); the founder of the Holkar State. Though she-bore him one son, Male Rao (d. 1767) and one daughter, Muktabai (d. ca. 1795) her husband proved to be a pleasure-seeking: irresponsible person. When he was killed in 1754 by a cannon ball, Ahalya Bai, wanted to commit sati, but was dissuaded by her father-in-law. After the sudden death of Malhar Rao on 2 May 1766, her son Male Rao was placed on the throne. As her son proved to be weak and incompetent, Ahalya Bai acted as the defacto ruler of the State. When her son died raving mad in 1767, she directly assumed the charge of the State and refused to adopt a heir, despite the pressure from the Peshwa.
Ahalya Bai ruled for 30 years as one of the purest and most exemplary rulers that ever existed. She selected an able soldier, Tukoji Rao Holkar, as her chief minister who served her loyally and well till her end. Her fame as a good and just ruler still lives. Though very dov0ut, tolerant, and kind-hearted, she could be-stern and resolute when occasion demanded. She herself led her soldiers against Chanuravats of Rajasthan who had risen in revolt against her in the beginning of her reign, and put down the revolt. She also suppressed the Bhils of Satpura with a firm hand, and put their leader to death. Raghunath Rao, the uncle of the-Peshwa, who had an eye on the State, was also told that she would fight for her independence.
She is famous for her piety and acts of charity which extended all over India. Temples and rest-houses were built at Badrinath,. Varanasi, Gaya, Rameshwaram and Somnath. A road was also built from Calcutta to Varanasi. The State became very pros perous and peaceful.
During her last years she had the mortification of seeing her daughter Muktabai became a sati, and she took to a life of extreme-austerity till her death on 13 August 1795.
