Bhopal, Jan 22 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh’s tableau for the upcoming Republic Day Parade in New Delhi on January 26 will be dedicated to the 18th century’s legendary Holkar dynasty queen Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, who is known for good governance and social reforms, besides cultural patronage and religious contributions.

“Madhya Pradesh presents a majestic tableau at the Republic Day Parade 2026, dedicated to ‘Punyashlok’ Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, celebrating her legacy of good governance, self-reliance, patriotism, women empowerment, and cultural preservation,” Madhya Pradesh Public Relations Department said in statement on Thursday.

Sharing further details about Madhya Pradesh’s tableau for the Republic Parade-2026, the Public Relations Department said that the front section of the tableau will feature the iconic image of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar holding a sacred Shivling, seated gracefully on a lotus.

The state government said that the depiction symbolises the serenity, dignity, and spiritual strength of India’s maternal power.

While the central portion will portray Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar accompanied by her ministers and soldiers, reflecting her efficient administration and just rule.

The lower panel illustrates the restoration and construction of temples undertaken during her reign by the Holkar dynasty, with a vigilant soldier guarding the heritage, symbolising protection of faith and culture.

The final section will highlight the historic Maheshwar ghats, temples, and fort, the capital of Ahilyabai Holkar’s kingdom and a hallmark of her administrative excellence.

Beneath it flows the sacred Narmada river, with ghats and boats depicted in serene detail.

At the rear end, temple spires established by Ahilyabai Holkar rise above the Maheshwar ghats.

“Murals below portray women engaged in weaving the renowned Maheshwari sarees under her guidance — a powerful testimony to women empowerment, dignity of labour, and promotion of indigenous crafts during her era. Traditional folk artists performing alongside the tableau will add colour, rhythm, and cultural vibrancy, making it a fitting tribute to the timeless legacy of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar,” the state’s Public Relations Department said.

Devi Ahilyabai Holkar was born on May 31, 1725, in a Maratha Hindu family in the village of Chaundi in Maharashtra’s Ahilyanagar district.

She was married to Khanderao Holkar, the son of Malhar Rao Holkar, the founder of the Holkar dynasty.

After Khanderao Holkar’s death in 1754, she became the revered queen of Malwa in Madhya Pradesh.

Devi Ahilyabai Holkar being particularly known for contribution to Hindu religion through restoration and construction of temples, ghats and other religious structures (among them the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi and the Somnath Temple in Gujarat).

Notably, in 2025, Madhya Pradesh’s tableau had showcased the theme ‘Cheetah — The Pride of India’, highlighting the successful reintroduction of cheetahs in Kuno National Park, featuring depictions of cheetahs, cubs, forest habitats, ‘Cheetah Mitras’ training locals.

–IANS

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