Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Bhopal on Saturday to attend the Devi Ahilyabai Mahila Sashaktikaran Mahasammelan, marking the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar, the revered queen of Malwa.
In a stirring tribute, he called her a ‘great protector’ of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Speaking to a vast audience including members of Self-Help Groups, Anganwadi workers, and beneficiaries of the Ladli Behna scheme, PM Modi recalled Ahilyabai’s enduring contributions during an era of foreign oppression.
“Three hundred years ago, when India was in the shackles of slavery, Lokmata Ahilyabai carried out such noble deeds that future generations will always remember her,” he said.
The Prime Minister praised her governance model, noting her promotion of agriculture, canal systems, and local industries, initiatives that uplifted the marginalised and preserved India’s religious identity.
“When our temples and sacred sites were under attack, she took it upon herself to restore and protect them. You can see her statue even at Kashi Vishwanath today,” PM Modi said.
लोकमाता अहिल्याबाई ने प्रभुसेवा और जनसेवा को कभी अलग नहीं माना। कहते हैं कि वे हमेशा शिवलिंग अपने साथ लेकर चलती थीं।
उस चुनौतीपूर्ण कालखंड में एक राज्य का नेतृत्व, कांटों से भरा ताज, लेकिन लोकमाता अहिल्याबाई ने अपने राज्य की समृद्धि को नई दिशा दी।
– आदरणीय प्रधानमंत्री श्री… pic.twitter.com/4BZQpnlJr7
— Dr Mohan Yadav (@DrMohanYadav51) May 31, 2025
Empowerment & Infrastructure
Emphasising that the day was not only a celebration but also a recommitment to Ahilyabai’s vision, PM Modi inaugurated several infrastructure projects that aim to accelerate Madhya Pradesh’s development.
These included the much-awaited Indore Metro, redevelopment works at Kshipra Ghat in Ujjain, and the inauguration of new airports in Satna and Datia.
Indore Metro marked a major milestone for India’s cleanest city as authorities launched a six-kilometre operational stretch from Gandhi Nagar Depot to Station Number Three.
They offered free rides for a week to encourage public participation.
Officials expect the entire 31.3-kilometre corridor to transform urban mobility and significantly reduce pollution.
Similarly, the Satna airport, developed on a former World War II airstrip with ₹30 crore investment, has received DGCA clearance for 19-seater aircraft.
The government has launched Datia Airport and other new facilities to improve air connectivity and drive regional development.
“Today, the Indore Metro begins operation, and Datia and Satna are now connected by air. These projects will enhance convenience for citizens and create numerous job opportunities,” PM Modi stated.
Born in 1725 in Chondi, Maharashtra, Ahilyabai Holkar assumed leadership of the Holkar state following personal tragedies.
Her visionary rule lasting nearly three decades earned her the title ‘Philosopher Queen of Malwa’.
She is remembered for her social reforms, support for women, and restoration of iconic Hindu pilgrimage sites.
PM Modi’s visit not only honoured her enduring impact but also reflected a broader mission to empower women and modernise infrastructure in line with her ideals.
Also Read: PM Modi Inaugurates Indore Metro, Satna & Datia Airports In Push For MP Connectivity
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