The Maharashtra Cabinet has officially endorsed the renaming of Ahmednagar district to Ahilya Nagar, a tribute to the renowned 18th-century Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar. This decision, ratified on March 13, marks a significant step in acknowledging historical legacies and addressing community sentiments.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde initially unveiled the proposal in May of the preceding year, coinciding with the 298th birth anniversary of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. The move follows the pattern set by earlier renamings within Maharashtra, including Aurangabad’s transformation to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Osmanabad’s ren
aming to Dharashiv, spearheaded by the Mahayuti government.
The demand for renaming Ahmednagar gained traction notably due to the advocacy of BJP leader and MLC Gopichand Padalkar, representing the influential Dhangar community. With both Ahilyabai and her father-in-law, Malhar Rao Holkar, belonging to the Dhangar lineage, the community holds a profound reverence for her historical contributions.
Ahmednagar to Ahilya Nagar
Ahmednagar, founded in 1494 AD by Ahmad Nizam Shah, later evolved into an independent Sultanate under the Nizam Shahi dynasty. The renaming to Ahilya Nagar not only honors the legacy of the Maratha queen but also underscores the rich historical tapestry of the region.
In tandem with this decision, the State Cabinet also approved the renaming of eight railway stations in Mumbai, replacing their colonial-era names with more culturally resonant appellations. Among these changes, Curry Road will be known as Lalbaug, Marine Lines as Mumbadevi, and Sandhurst Road as Dongri, among others.
Additionally, the Cabinet sanctioned the acquisition of 2.5 acres of land in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, signaling the construction of a Maharashtra Bhavan, as outlined in the previous state budget session.
This move reflects a broader commitment to historical reclamation and cultural representation, echoing sentiments of pride and identity among the populace. The renaming of Ahmednagar to Ahilya Nagar stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar and the diverse heritage of Maharashtra.
