“America Resonates with the Legacy of Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar — Friends of MP Host a Historic 300th Birthday Celebration, Next Stop: Celebration at the United Nations”

On the auspicious occasion of the 300th birth anniversary of Punyashlok Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar, a grand and inspiring celebration was held in Boston, USA. The event was organized by Friends of MP, Global Citizen Forum, and several prominent Indian, Hindu diaspora organizations.

The ceremony began with the traditional lighting of the lamp by Salil Maakoday and Sanjeev Saxena. Pramit Maakoday, founding member of Friends of MP, presided over the event and emphasized that Ahilyabai was not only a distinguished ruler of Central India but a timeless symbol of women’s leadership. He also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swachh Bharat Mission, stating, “Indore’s achievement of being ranked India’s cleanest city seven times is deeply inspired by the values of service and good governance.”

Sanjeev Tripathi, a senior community leader, recited an inspiring and motivational poem about Rajmata Ahilyabai.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Lakshmi Thalanki, a respected academic, researcher, and orthodontist from Boston. Dr. Thalanki emphasized the continued relevance of Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar’s inclusive leadership, spiritual vision, and social reforms in today’s world, stating that her governance blended transparency, welfare, and Dharma — a rare example of ethical leadership, even by modern standards. 
“There is hardly any area of society — spirituality, culture, humanitarian work, education, science, ecology, or Dharma — that Ahilyabai has not influenced. Her life offers timeless lessons, deeply rooted in our Itihasas and Upanishads,” Dr. Thalanki said.

Mrs. Nisha Maakoday and Mr. Aditya Jhavar also shared their reflections. Nisha, originally from Indore and now residing in the US, expressed pride in being born on the same land where Ahilyabai once ruled. Aditya, who has lived in the US for 25 years, delivered the vote of thanks and announced that this event will now be held annually to honor Rajmata’s legacy.

Sangeeta Saxena from Gayatri Parivar and Deepti Nagraj from HSS New England also shared their thoughts on Ahilyabai’s enduring impact and global relevance.

During the concluding segment, Pramit Maakoday proposed that, with the support of the Global Citizen Forum, this initiative be taken to the United Nations and developed as a globally recognized program celebrating Dharmic leadership and women’s empowerment.

The next edition of the event will be fully dedicated to Women Empowerment and Ethical Leadership Development, welcoming participation from across the United States and around the world.

The journey continues — next stop: Celebration at the United Nations.

Photo Caption 1:

“प्रमित माकोड़े (कार्यक्रम अध्यक्ष) आयोजन समिति के सदस्यों के साथ।”

Pramit Maakoday, Chair of the Event, with members of the Organizing Committee.

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