A three-day commemorative programme marking the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilya Bai Holkar was organised from 28 to 30 January 2026 in Narmadapuram, Madhya Pradesh, by Meenakshi Mahamaya Jan Kalyan Samiti in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The programme witnessed active participation from students, members of the local community, and public representatives, including Rajya Sabha Members of Parliament and local MLAs, and aimed to highlight Ahilya Bai Holkar’s legacy of justice, governance, and social empowerment.
The first day featured an inaugural session with keynote addresses, followed by a stage play titled “The Life and Legacy of Ahilya Bai”, written, directed, and performed by students. The day also included an elocution competition on “Ethical Governance and Ahilya Bai’s Ideals” and cultural presentations comprising devotional skits and musical tributes. The second day included an essay writing competition on themes of women’s empowerment, leadership, and legacy; interactive history quizzes; poster-making and slogan-writing workshops under the theme “Inspiring Change the Ahilya Bai Way”; and an inter-school debate on “Can Ahilya Bai’s Leadership Model Work Today?”
The third day concluded with a tree plantation drive, a lecture on “Ahilya Bai Holkar and India’s Cultural Renaissance,” an art exhibition, and a student innovation showcase. The programme culminated in a musical drama titled “Ahilya Bai: The People's Queen.” Through these activities, the programme provided a comprehensive platform for academic engagement, cultural expression, and community participation, reinforcing the continued relevance of Ahilya Bai Holkar’s ideals in contemporary society, particularly in the areas of ethical governance, social reform, and women’s leadership.
