CNN Central News & Network – ITDC India Express / ITDC News Bhopal: A lecture and speech competition based on the life and philosophy of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar was organized at Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University. Students from the university actively participated in the speech competition. On this occasion, Professor of Political Science and Director of the Academic Coordination Department, Dr. Uttam Singh Chauhan, was the chief speaker. The event was presided over by the Vice-Chancellor of Bhoj University, K.C. Gupta.
Chief speaker Dr. Uttam Singh Chauhan shed light on Devi Ahilyabai Holkar’s life, stating that her governance is an ideal model of good administration. She played a crucial role in fostering cultural unity in India. Dr. Chauhan narrated an instance where Ahilyabai tactfully prevented an attack on the Holkar state by creating a women’s army and sending a message to Raghav Peshwa: “If you defeat us, nothing changes. But if you are defeated by women, it will be a great disgrace.” This diplomatic wisdom forced Raghav to withdraw.
Dr. Chauhan emphasized that Ahilyabai was ahead of her time, promoting privatization in governance — evidence of which still exists. She used the symbol of the Shiva Linga in governance to achieve universal acceptance.
Presiding over the event, Vice-Chancellor K.C. Gupta noted that in 1787, the Bengal Gazette had published that Ahilyabai Holkar would be worshipped as a goddess. Jawaharlal Nehru also referred to her as a “saint ruler.” Ahilyabai ruled for 28 years and contributed significantly to administration, culture, and religion. She restored hundreds of temples in cities like Gaya and Varanasi, promoted education and arts, and worked for women’s empowerment. She remains a cultural and spiritual icon of India.
The event was coordinated by Ratan Suryavanshi, Director of the Student Assistance Department, who mentioned that the university organized the program in honor of Devi Ahilyabai’s 300th birth anniversary. He added that the government aims to spread the ideals of her good governance, launching several welfare schemes in her name.
In the vote of thanks, University Registrar Dr. Sushil Manderia said that Devi Ahilyabai is remembered for her bravery, compassion, and governance. She was a strong female ruler who believed in religious equality and made supreme sacrifices for national duty.
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