Date: March 3, 2025
Venue: College Auditorium
Attendees: 142

To commemorate the 300th birth anniversary of Lokamata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, a distinguished social reformer and visionary leader, the Anurag NSS Unit organized a seminar on March 3, 2025, at the College Auditorium. This event was conducted at the request of Akhil Bhartiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh (ABRSM) to enlighten students and faculty about the life and contributions of Ahilyabai Holkar.

The seminar commenced with an insightful audio-visual presentation showcasing the inspiring journey of Ahilyabai Holkar. Following this, the esteemed guests and the resource person were invited onto the dais, accompanied by the Head of the Institution. The program officially began with the invocation of Saraswati Vandana and a ceremonial lamp lighting, signifying wisdom and enlightenment.

In his address, the Principal highlighted the need for greater awareness about Ahilyabai Holkar, particularly in Southern India. He emphasized her remarkable governance, unwavering courage, and dedication to socio-economic reforms. He urged the audience to learn from her methods and apply them to contemporary nation-building efforts.

The Chief Guest and Resource Person, an Associate Professor of Economics from the University of Hyderabad, elaborated on Ahilyabai Holkar’s significant contributions to society. He spoke about her role in preserving Sanatan Dharma during the 17th century and her reputation as a just and impartial ruler.

Additionally, Dr. Bashetty Latha, Associate Professor of Telugu at the University of Hyderabad, addressed the audience on Ahilyabai Holkar’s progressive efforts in women’s empowerment. She highlighted the queen’s pioneering initiatives, including establishing a special women’s wing in the military, working towards the abolition of Sati, restoring temples, and advocating inter-caste marriages, including that of her own daughter.

The interactive session that followed allowed faculty members to engage with the resource person, posing insightful questions about Ahilyabai Holkar’s legacy. Their queries were met with in-depth responses that further enriched the discussion.

As the seminar drew to a close, the Principal extended heartfelt appreciation to the esteemed guests for their presence and valuable contributions. The institution recognized their efforts with a formal felicitation, expressing gratitude for their willingness to share their knowledge. The guests, in turn, acknowledged ABRSM and Anurag Engineering College for providing a platform to educate and inspire the academic community.

The event concluded with the recitation of the Shanti Mantra, leaving the attendees with a deep sense of reverence for Ahilyabai Holkar’s enduring legacy and an enhanced understanding of her visionary leadership.