TFP Bureau, Raipur, March 31, 2025: The Lokmata Ahilyadevi Holkar Tricentenary Celebration Organizing Committee, Chhattisgarh Province, held a lecture at the Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium in Raipur on Monday. The event marked the conclusion of the year-long commemoration of the revered figure, with Shri Ramdatt Chakradhar, the Joint General Secretary of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), addressing the gathering as the chief guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Chakradhar highlighted the significance of Lokmata Ahilyadevi’s life and character as a beacon of inspiration for both present and future generations. He stated that despite numerous adversities throughout history, India has always overcome challenges and thrived, thanks to the contributions of great personalities, saints, and reformers. Lokmata Ahilyadevi, he emphasized, was one such iconic figure whose life offers valuable lessons.
Chakradhar elaborated on three key qualities that defined Ahilyadevi’s exceptional character. First was her unwavering courage—despite facing numerous rebellions and challenges to her vast kingdom, she demonstrated remarkable military prowess to ensure unity and stability. Second, he praised her as a skilled and compassionate administrator, citing her swift action in addressing financial irregularities and her commitment to serving the people. “No rich person could harass a poor person under her rule,” he remarked, quoting her belief that the government’s relationship with the people was akin to that of a mother and child.
The third aspect of Ahilyadevi’s legacy, according to Chakradhar, was her spirituality and commitment to preserving cultural values. He spoke of her devotion to building and renovating temples across India, including in places like Kashi, Badrinath, and Kedarnath, as well as her efforts to support pilgrims and promote Swadeshi industries in Maheshwar.
Chakradhar concluded by urging the audience to imbibe the values embodied by Lokmata Ahilyadevi. “This is the golden period of India,” he said, pointing out the momentous achievements of the present era, such as the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and the abolition of Article 370. He encouraged the youth to take inspiration from the life and character of Lokmata during this centenary year of RSS.
During the event, Shri Toplal Verma, State Sanghchalak of RSS, shared insights on the various programs held throughout the year, including lecture series, essay competitions, and rangoli-making contests in 1,157 educational institutions across Chhattisgarh, which saw widespread participation from youth and intellectuals.
Shri Narendra Prasad Dixit, State President of the Tricentenary Celebration Organizing Committee, also highlighted the objective of the celebration, while an artistic dance drama was presented to the audience. Among those present were Shri Sachchidanand Shukla, Vice Chancellor of Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Shri Abhayram, State Pracharak of RSS, Shri Girish Chandel, Vice Chancellor of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, and numerous intellectuals and dignitaries.
