Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stated that it is a matter of pride for all of us that we are getting the opportunity to witness significant episodes from the life of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, the great ruler of Madhya Pradesh, through theatrical performance. Dr. Yadav was speaking on Thursday at the Pandit Suryanarayan Vyas Auditorium of Kalidas Sanskrit Academy, during the staging of the grand play “Ahilyabai Holkar: A Song of Life, Legacy, and Glory” as part of the 300th birth anniversary celebrations of Devi Ahilyabai.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister also released the book “Ahilyay Rupen Sansthirta” authored by Dr. Sadhna Balwate. Present at the event were Minister-in-Charge Shri Gautam Tetwal, MLA Shri Anil Jain Kalukheda, Mayor Shri Mukesh Tatwal, Municipal Corporation Chairperson Smt. Kalavati Yadav, Shri Sanjay Agrawal, Sanskar Bharati Treasurer Shri Shripad Joshi, Shri Vishal Rajoria, Shri Jagdish Agrawal, District Convenor of Ahilyabai Jayanti Celebrations Shri Umesh Sengar, Shri Jagdish Panchal, and other dignitaries.
The program began with lamp lighting before the portraits of Maa Saraswati and Devi Ahilyabai by the guests. Director of Directorate of Culture Shri N.P. Namdev and Director of Kalidas Sanskrit Academy Dr. Govind Gandhe welcomed the guests.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said that the Central and State Governments are organizing several events throughout the year to commemorate the 300th birth anniversary of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. Recalling her exemplary life, he said that Devi Ahilyabai was a daughter who, even after marriage, remained a daughter to her in-laws. As a child, she once refused to move from her place during Bajirao’s procession as she was worshipping Lord Shiva, showcasing her courage and devotion.
She was not only spiritually inclined but also well-versed in scriptures and arms. When her husband returned from war with spoils, she asked him to deposit it in the state treasury, reflecting her integrity and selflessness.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav highlighted Devi Ahilyabai’s efforts to restore ancient temples like Somnath and Kashi Vishwanath, and said she led an ideal life upholding Sanatan Dharma. Despite personal hardships, she set an example of good governance. She also promoted local employment by inviting skilled artisans from South India to Maheshwar, thereby popularizing hand-woven Maheshwari sarees, which are now globally renowned.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav added that cabinet meetings were held in Maheshwar and Indore’s Rajwada Palace to honor the memory of Devi Ahilyabai on her 300th birth anniversary. He announced a major event on women empowerment to be held in Bhopal on May 31. Dr. Yadav extended his best wishes to all artists and honored them. He also announced a grant of ₹5 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Fund to support the artists.
It was also informed that the Madhya Pradesh Government is organizing plays based on Devi Ahilyabai’s life in five major cities across the state as part of the 300th birth anniversary celebrations. The grand play at Kalidas Sanskrit Academy was performed by Nagpur-based artists under the direction of Ms. Priyanka Thakur.