NOC Foundation and Roots of Odisha Foundation Honour Her Eternal Legacy of Justice, Service and Nation-Building
New Delhi [India], December 8: A grand commemorative ceremony marking the 300th birth anniversary of Punyashlok Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar was organised by New Opportunity for Children (NOC) Foundation and Roots of Odisha Foundation, with the gracious support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The event paid homage to one of India’s most revered rulers whose life and governance continue to inspire ideals of justice, good governance and inclusive development.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of eminent scholars, educationists, cultural personalities, social activists, journalists and distinguished guests from across the country. Speakers highlighted that Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar’s life and leadership remain a timeless model of women’s empowerment, ethical administration, cultural preservation and people-centric governance.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Swami Chakrapani and other spiritual leaders, followed by a devotional Ganesh Vandana that set a serene and spiritual tone for the event.
A special session was dedicated to reflecting on the life and contributions of Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar. Born in 1725 in Chondi village of present-day Maharashtra, she broke prevailing social barriers to ascend the throne of Malwa and established a शासन marked by justice, integrity and welfare of the people. Her administration was known for zero tolerance towards corruption, swift delivery of justice, protection of women’s rights and focused efforts towards uplifting the weaker sections of society.
Her unparalleled contribution to the preservation of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage was also recalled. Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar played a historic role in the reconstruction and revival of several sacred sites, including Kashi Vishwanath and Somnath temples. By nurturing traditional crafts such as Maheshwari weaving, she laid the foundation for a sustainable, livelihood-linked model of cultural development.
NOC Foundation and Roots of Odisha Foundation reiterated their shared commitment to empowering society through education, culture, social welfare and sustainable development. Organisers emphasized that the values and vision of Ahilyabai Holkar remain as relevant for contemporary India as they were during her lifetime.
Ahilyabai Holkar Lokmata Award Ceremony
The highlight of the event was the Ahilyabai Holkar Lokmata Award Ceremony, which honoured outstanding individuals for their exemplary contributions across diverse fields.
The awardees included Padma Shri recipient and renowned classical vocalist Vidushi Sumitra Guha for her contribution to Indian classical music and cultural heritage; Prof. (Dr.) Rama, Principal of Hansraj College, University of Delhi, for her lifelong contribution to education, literature, journalism and Hindi; Ms. Sikta Dev, senior journalist, for public-interest journalism and media ethics; Bhagwani Devi Dagar, 95-year-old master athlete, for promoting courage and active living through sports; Prof. (Dr.) Bijayalaxmi Nanda, Principal of Miranda House, for exemplary leadership in women’s education; Dr. Arundhati Devi, Director, International Indecent Prevention Movement (IIPM), for her work towards girls’ education and dignity; and Ms. Aarti Kumar, entrepreneur and social worker, for socially responsible business leadership.
A thought-provoking panel discussion on the contemporary relevance of Ahilyabai Holkar’s governance model was also held during the programme. The event further showcased vibrant tribal folk dance performances, offering a glimpse into India’s rich cultural diversity.
Speaking to the media at the conclusion of the ceremony, CA Sudhir Kumar Das, Head of Roots of Odisha Foundation, said that the Ahilyabai Holkar Lokmata Award serves as a powerful platform to connect the younger generation with the values of service, integrity and public welfare. He also praised the “I Am Ahilya” campaign as a meaningful initiative to take the philosophy and ideals of Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar to every section of society.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, presentation of mementoes and a fellowship dinner. Through this commemoration, the organisers reaffirmed that the legacy of Punyashlok Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar is not merely a chapter of history, but a living inspiration for social service, strong governance, women’s leadership and cultural consciousness for generations to come.
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