Like the Maratha kings, their queens were also examples of great valour and inspiration. And, Ahilyabai Holkar was one of them, whose praises are seldom acknowledged.
Depicting the glorious life of Malwa's benevolent queen is Sony Entertainment Television’s period drama ‘Punyashlok Ahilyabai’ that has received immense adulation from the viewers. With an inspiring tale, the show brings to light the journey of Ahilyabai Holkar, who devoted her life to defeating patriarchal norms and establishing women’s right at a time when women were confined to the four walls of their houses, with the unwavering support of her father-in-law, Malhar Rao Holkar.
The show’s ongoing track showcases how at a time when women were bereft of their voice and rights due to the patriarchal norms set by the society, Ahilya fearlessly took a stand against domestic abuse faced by women. Even though Ahilyabai was heavily pregnant, she fought for Krishna, her hand maiden, who was a victim of domestic abuse by her husband. Not ready to tolerate this kind of disrespect for women, Ahilya takes this matter to the darbar in order to address the issue and bring justice for all the women like Krishna who face such ill-treatment as they are scared to speak about it as it goes against their husbands.
Sharing her thoughts on the same, Aetashaa Sansgiri who plays the role of Ahilyabai Holkar in the show said, “Domestic abuse remains a deeply ingrained issue in our society, with serious impact on a woman's health and well-being. Its continued existence is morally indefensible. While some women are able to fight against domestic violence faced by them, there are still some who are not able to speak about it. So, imagine what the case would have been during the era of Ahilyabai Holkar.
The show’s current track showcases how in an era, where women were never allowed to speak or given any importance and had to face disrespect while confined to the four walls of their houses, Ahilyabai fearlessly stood up against Domestic violence in order to bring in justice for all the women who truly deserve to be treated with respect. A women ahead of her time, Ahilyabai always gave priority to the people of her kingdom before her own needs and her immense contribution to the society was extraordinary. Her benevolence and bravery will always inspire every woman out there. And I really feel obliged to play this role every day of my life as it been a life altering experience for me after witnessing the courage, endurance and determination of Ahilyabai Holkar up close.”
Witness Ahilyabai Holkar’s epic life story on Punyashlok Ahilyabai, every Monday to Friday at 7:30pm only on Sony Entertainment Television
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