2025-03-13 Thu

Ahilyabai Holkar is considered one of the bravest female rulers in Indian history. She was the Holkar queen of the Maratha Malwa Kingdom.

Following the deaths of her husband, Khanderao Holkar, and her father-in-law, Malhar Rao Holkar, she ascended to the throne, as there were no authorized rulers available to govern the kingdom. In addition to her courage, she was an exceptional administrator and a pioneer in constructing Hindu temples. She built and renovated hundreds of temples and dharmashalas (rest houses) across India.

During her reign, Ahilyabai Holkar oversaw two or more mints, including those at Indore (Malharnagar) and Maheshwar. Coins bearing the mint mark of a tri-foliate bilva leaf—sacred to Lord Shiva—were issued for religious and charitable purposes.

Ahilyabai Holkar also issued a silver rupee weighing 11.1 grams from the Malharnagar Mint in the Hijri year AH 1207. This coin features depictions of a Shiva lingam and bilva patra.