From History to Empowerment: PM Modi Celebrates Ahilyabai Holkar and Modern 'Nari Shakti'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Bhopal on May 31, 2025, to participate in a grand event commemorating, An iconic symbol of women leadership and good governance in the history of India. On this occasion ‘Mahila Sashaktikaran Mahasammelan’ (Women Empowerment Convention) was Organized, where the prime minister paid floral tribute to Devi Ahilyabai Holkar and highlighted her enduring legacy.


The visit also included the inauguration of several key development projects and a powerful message on women’s empowerment. The special thing is that more than 50 percent of women police have been deployed for the security of the Prime Minister. But who was Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, and why does her legacy continue to inspire?
In the Indian history, stories of bravery and leadership have often been dominated by men. However, the story of Ahilyabai Holkar is a testament to the indomitable spirit and resilience of a woman who not only challenged societal norms but also established herself as one of the most effective rulers in Indian history.

Born in 1725 in Chaundi village of Maharashtra, a turning point in Ahilyabai's life came when she was married to Khanderao Holkar, son of Malhar Rao Holkar, the great ruler of the Maratha Empire. After the untimely death of her husband in the Battle of Kumher and the death of her father-in-law in 1766, her fate as a ruler was sealed. Malhar Rao Holkar recognised Ahilyabai's potential and prevented her from committing sati, a common practice of self-immolation by widows at the time. Instead, he groomed her for leadership, a decision that proved to be crucial for the Maratha Empire.


After becoming the queen of the Malwa kingdom she shifted the capital to Maheshwar, located south of Indore on the banks of the Narmada River. Known for her strong defence of the kingdom, leading the armies and appointing Tukojirao Holkar as the Army Chief. Ruled for 28 years, this period is considered the peak period of the Holkar dynasty.
Built numerous Hindu temples, rest houses (dharmashalas) and other infrastructure across India. Renovated the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi. Established Maheshwar as a centre of literary, musical, artistic and industrial activities. Known for her charitable works, including the establishment of hospitals and dispensaries. She was considered a kind and effective ruler, she died on 13 August 1795.
The Mahila Sashaktikaran Maha Sammelan saw a massive turnout of women from across the state. This is Prime Minister Modi's first visit to any major women-oriented event. The event proved to be an important milestone in India's journey towards gender equality and women's empowerment. For the first time in history women officers have been included in the command of the Prime Minister's security operation under the leadership of Special Director General of Police (Special DJ) Sonali Mishra. More than six women IPS officers along with about three dozen women ASPs and DSPs will be present at the venue, helipad and main roads.


This event is based on the theme 'Operation Sindoor', which will emerge as a symbol of women empowerment and send the message of 'women power' across the country. PM Modi emphasized that women are not just beneficiaries of government schemes but are becoming leaders and changemakers in every sector. He highlighted the achievements of various women-led initiatives under schemes like Ujjwala Yojana, Mudra loans, and Digital India, encouraging further female participation in nation-building.
On this historic occasion, Prime Minister Modi inaugurate several development projects including newly constructed airports in Datia and Satna and the much- anticipated Indore Metro. Prime Minister Modi also released a postage a special postage stamp and a commemorative Rs 300 coin in the honour of devi Ahilyabai's 300th birth anniversary. Additionally, the Prime Minister presented the prestigious National Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Awards to artists for outstanding contributions in tribal, folk and traditional arts, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of India.


The event was not just a tribute - it was a message. From the women-led security of Operation Sindoor to schemes supporting women entrepreneurs, the government has put women at the centre of India's progress. This reinforces Prime Minister Modi’s vision of “Nari Shakti” as both a cultural asset and a policy priority. This high-visibility event helps the government showcase its commitment to women's empowerment ahead of elections or major policy implementation. The combination of security reforms, cultural celebration, and infrastructure development strengthens its appeal to diverse voter groups—especially women, youth, and heritage-conscious citizens.

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