Renaming of Ahmednagar District to 'Ahilya Nagar'

Maharashtra's Ahmednagar District Renamed as 'Ahilya Nagar'

Historical Background

Ahmednagar, located in the Western region of Maharashtra, was founded by Nizam Shah in 1490. Originally named after the founder himself, Ahmednagar has a rich history dating back to 240 BC when it was mentioned in the reference to Emperor Ashok's vicinity. The district of Ahmednagar has been part of various prominent kingdoms like the Rashtrakutas, Western Chalukyas, Delhi Sultanate, and Nizam Shahis. Notably, during the Bahmani Empire, the region was known as 'Ahmednagar', named after Malik Ahmad Nizam Shah who founded the city close to where he had defeated an army on the left bank of the Sina River.

Renaming Ahmednagar

In May 2023, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that his government would rename Ahmednagar after Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar, marking her birth anniversary. This decision came after demands from the BJP to change the names of Aurangabad and Osmanabad to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar and Dharashiv respectively. Ahilyabai Holkar was born in Chondi village of the district and served as the queen of Indore within the Maratha Confederacy in the late 18th century.

Cultural Significance of Ahilyabai Holkar

Ahilyabai Holkar is remembered for her significant contributions to the region's administration and temple restoration. After her husband Khande Rao Holkar's death at the Battle of Kumbher against the king of Bharatpur, she took control of Malwa and excelled in administrative and military strategies under the guidance of her father-in-law. Her rule lasted for thirty years (1765-1795), during which perfect order and good government prevailed, with the people prospering. Additionally, Ahilyabai Holkar was known for her efforts in restoring Hindu temples, including the construction of a temple in 1783.

Present-day Renaming

On March 13, 2024, the Maharashtra state cabinet approved the renaming of Ahmednagar district as 'Ahilya Nagar', honoring the memory and legacy of Ahilyabai Holkar. This decision aligns with the renaming trend seen earlier when Aurangabad and Osmanabad were renamed after historical figures associated with the region.

Explore the historical background and cultural significance behind the renaming of Ahmednagar district in Maharashtra to 'Ahilya Nagar'. Learn about the rich history of Ahmednagar, the leadership of Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar, and the decision-making process that led to this renaming initiative.