Shivaji Rao
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Shivaji Rao, commonly known as Shivaji Maharaj, was the founder of the Maratha Empire in western India in the 17th century. Born in 1630, he is celebrated for his military tactics, innovative governance, and strong sense of nationalism. Shivaji established a competent and progressive administration, promoting policies that empowered local governance and encouraged agricultural development. He is also known for his naval prowess and the establishment of a strong navy to protect the western coastline. His legacy includes the promotion of Marathi culture and the establishment of a Hindu kingdom in a predominantly Muslim-ruled region. Shivaji’s coronation in 1674 marked the formal recognition of his sovereignty. He is remembered as a heroic figure and a symbol of resistance against oppression, and he remains an enduring cultural icon in India today.
Ahilyabai Holkar
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Ahilyabai Holkar (1725–1795) was a prominent queen and ruler of the Malwa kingdom in central India, known for her administrative skills, progressive governance, and patronage of arts and architecture. She became the queen of Indore after the death of her husband, Khanderao Holkar, and successfully managed the kingdom during a tumultuous period marked by regional conflicts and the decline of Mughal power. Ahilyabai is celebrated for her commitment to social justice, infrastructure development, and the promotion of education. She rebuilt temples, established dharamshalas (rest houses), and supported artisans and traders, contributing to the cultural and economic prosperity of her region.