Thursday, 1 May 2025

Lokmata Ahilyabai- (Beacon) Shining Example of Women's Leadership :Yuva Bharati May 2025

 

As we commemorate the tricentenary jayanti of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar, we are reminded not merely of a historical ruler, but of a timeless spirit who embodied the finest essence of Indian civilization. In an era often remembered for political turbulence, Ahilyabai emerged as a guiding light— the queen who revived traditions of national unity by transcending boundaries of region, religion, and caste.

 

Ahilyabai’s governance was deeply rooted in the dharmic principles of justice, service, and compassion. Her reign, often referred to as Ahilyabai's welfare state, set a precedent for what a just and inclusive administration could look like. Under her rule, the state became a sanctuary for those seeking spiritual solace, economic stability, and cultural continuity. She revived pilgrimage centres across India—from Kashi to Rameswaram—symbolically knitting the nation together through spiritual and cultural rejuvenation.

 

More than a monarch, Ahilyabai Holkar stood as the epitome of Bharateeyata—a perfect embodiment of the Indian value system. Her leadership style was neither authoritarian nor aloof. Instead, she functioned like a mother to her people, involved in their joys and sorrows, ensuring equity and dignity in governance. She demonstrated that authority need not be separated from humility and that power, when rooted in service, can uplift even the most neglected. On this historic occasion, her vision remains ever relevant. In a world striving for harmony amidst diversity, Ahilyabai’s life continues to be a beacon—reminding us that unity is not uniformity but the respectful celebration of differences under a shared ethos. She remains a shining example of how women’s leadership can transform society with strength, wisdom, and grace.

 

As we honour her 300th birth anniversary, we are happy to share the May issue of the magazine having articles on different dimensions of Punyashloka Lokamata Ahilya Bai Holkar. Let us not only remember Ahilyabai Holkar as a great queen but also imbibe her spirit in shaping a unified, inclusive, and value-based Bharat.

 

This month commemorates the jayanthis of acharya dwaya – Adiguru Shankaracharya and Sri Ramanujacharya.

 

Shankara Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Adi Shankaracharya, the great 8th-century philosopher and spiritual reformer who consolidated the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta. Celebrated on the Panchami of Shukla Paksha in the month of Vaishakha, this day honors his profound contribution to Indian philosophy, his establishment of four mathas (monastic centers), and his emphasis on the unity of the soul (Atman) with the Supreme (Brahman).

 

Ramanujacharya Jayanti commemorates the birth of the great 11th-century saint and philosopher Sri Ramanujacharya, the proponent of Vishishtadvaita Vedanta. Observed on the Thiruvadirai Nakshatra in the Tamil month of Chithirai, this occasion celebrates his teachings on devotion (bhakti) to Lord Vishnu, equality, and social harmony. His inclusive vision laid a strong foundation for the Bhakti movement and continues to inspire millions.

                           Dr. S Padmarekha

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