Gautamabai Holkar Gautamabai Holkar (16 June 1694 – 29 September 1761) was the first queen of the Holkar dynasty in Malwa, India. She was the first wife of Malhar Rao Holkar, the founder of the Holkar dynasty, and the mother-in-law of the renowned ruler Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, who succeeded Gautamabai as the Queen of Malwa.
Early Life and Marriage Gautamabai was born on 16 June 1694 to Bhojraj Baba Bargal, a wealthy landlord from Talodya, and his wife Mohini Bai. Her brother was Narayan Rao Bargal. Named after the sage Gautameshwar, Gautamabai spent her early years in Talodya. Her future husband, Malhar Rao Holkar, was her maternal uncle's nephew and spent his childhood at her family’s residence. Gautamabai and Malhar Rao married in 1701.
Role as Queen and Subhedarin Gautamabai was known for her wisdom and influence in both private and public matters. She was a devoted disciple of Shore Bhramendra Swami, the guru of Bajirao I, and played a crucial role in guiding Malhar Rao in administrative and military affairs. During Malhar Rao’s frequent absences due to military campaigns, Gautamabai managed state affairs and inspired her husband in his endeavors.
Gautamabai was instrumental in the early administrative and cultural developments of Malwa. In 1725, she gave birth to Khanderao Holkar, and also had two daughters, Santubai Holkar and Udabai Holkar. She was known for her piety and charitable activities, which included renovating the Ghrishneshwar Temple and beginning the construction of the Omkareshwar Temple, which was later completed by her daughter-in-law, Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. She also initiated the construction of the Shree Keshavrao Temple.
Khasgi Jagir In 1734, Peshwa Baji Rao I conferred the Khasgi estate to Gautamabai in perpetuity. This estate was unique among Maratha states as it was managed directly by the sovereign’s consort and was separate from the state's revenue. The lands of Khasgi were used for agricultural activities, including the cultivation of orchards and opium flowers.
Under Gautamabai's administration, the estate of Khasgi included several key regions such as Maheshwar, Choli, Indore, Harsola, and others. Gautamabai's agricultural practices were significant, with her lands producing various crops and contributing to the Holkar dynasty’s economic stability. The Khasgi Jagir also played a role in the Holkar dynasty's religious and cultural practices, including the installation of the Devi of Mankeshwar and Gargya's Sawa in Wafgaon.
Later Life and Death The aftermath of the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761 had a profound impact on the Holkar family. Gautamabai’s health, already compromised by asthma, deteriorated further due to the stress and turmoil from the war. She passed away on 29 September 1761.
Gautamabai Holkar’s legacy includes her contributions to the Holkar dynasty and her influence on Indian cultural and administrative traditions, notably through her daughter-in-law Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, who succeeded her as the Queen of Malwa.
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