Grand Cultural Theatrical Ceremony Organized on the Birth Anniversary of Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar
Chief Minister Mrs. Rekha Gupta attended as the Chief Guest
Minister of Art & Culture Kapil Mishra was also present
Sandhyamidday@New Delhi@A grand cultural, theatrical, and dance-drama ceremony was organized today at the LTG Auditorium, Copernicus Marg, on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar. The Chief Minister of Delhi, Mrs. Rekha Gupta, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Minister of Art & Culture, Shri Kapil Mishra, was also present on the occasion. The event featured various performances highlighting Ahilya Bai Holkar’s contributions, her embodiment of womanhood, and her commitment to protecting Dharma.
The Chief Minister said that Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar was not only a valiant ruler but also a symbol of justice, compassion, harmony, ethical governance, and unshakable courage. She conveyed to Indian society that welfare, equality, moral values, and righteous leadership must form the foundation of governance. Ahilya Bai paved the way for the protection of women’s dignity and rights, and her life remains a powerful legacy of women’s empowerment and nation-building.
Referring to numerous examples from history, the Chief Minister said that women in ancient India were accorded the right to education, equality, decision-making, and social leadership. She observed that our scriptures, Upanishads, and mythological narratives provide ample evidence that women were central to statecraft, military training, knowledge systems, and policy formulation. She stated that today’s India is moving beyond ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ towards ‘Beti Ko Netratva Do’ empowering daughters to lead.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the struggle and leadership of Ahilya Bai Holkar stand as living proof that courage, integrity, and righteousness transcend gender. She added that the Delhi Government is committed to building an equality-based and just society, inspired by the ideals of Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar.
The Chief Minister announced that the 300th birth anniversary year of Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar is being celebrated across the nation. Delhi too will host diverse cultural, educational, and awareness-based programs to ensure that more people draw inspiration from her life, philosophy, and contributions. She said that the life story of Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar will continue to inspire millions of Indians, and each tribute to her strengthens the path of women’s empowerment.
Shri Kapil Mishra said, “Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar lives forever, Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar lives forever. I would first request the entire auditorium to welcome Delhi’s cultural spirit and this grand celebration with a big round of applause.
“Today’s program is not just an event but an opportunity to learn from her life. This theatrical performance reminds us that the Ministry of Art & Culture, under the visionary guidance of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, has organized numerous cultural programs over the last 6–7 months with the aim of bringing art and culture to every citizen and making it a part of daily life.
“The grand Diwali celebration—where a magnificent tableau of Lord Shri Ram was showcased above India Gate, illuminated by thousands of lamps on the Kartavya Path—was witnessed by Delhi for the first time. Similarly, the enthusiasm of Teej, the sacred Kaman Yatra, the vibrant Navratri Garba Mahotsav, and the events of notified tribal communities have infused new energy into Delhi’s cultural identity.
“Connecting every section of society with culture and heritage, the mission to make Delhi not only the political capital but also the cultural capital is progressing steadily—this is the Hon’ble Chief Minister’s resolve.
“I extend my heartfelt greetings to all of you for upholding the dignity of this program through your presence. We are honored to have distinguished personalities on stage today—respected Taantda, Maa Sharda’s beloved daughter Pampri Swarad, Satya Ji, Rashmik Singh Ji, Hanjhar Ji, and esteemed members of the Pal Baghel community—their presence sanctifies this celebration.
“Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar governed with the blessings of Lord Shiva, and her royal seal bore His divine command. Perhaps this is why despite her kingdom not being vast, her influence remained indelible from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. Her statues and paintings remain incomplete without the name of Lord Shiva. Such profound devotion inspires us not merely to watch this play, but to imbibe its teachings in our lives.
“It is our privilege that today’s Delhi Government under the leadership of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, and the Government of India under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, strive to uphold the very principles established by Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar.
“And it is widely known that the temples restored by Ahilya Bai Holkar 300 years ago have been revived and rebuilt in today’s era by her devotee and disciple, our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji. He has carried forward her vision, and we are fortunate witnesses to this extraordinary work.
“It fills us with pride to see governance inspired by such ideals in India today, and Delhi too is moving forward with the same values under the leadership of the Hon’ble Chief Minister.
“Watch this play, draw inspiration from it, and may this inspiration illuminate the lives of your families and future generations.”
A large number of artists, scholars, social organizations, and culture enthusiasts were present at the event.
