Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav inspected the ongoing construction of the Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Memorial near Lal Bagh Palace in Indore on Sunday. He directed that the memorial be developed comprehensively, with a focus on preserving historical heritage and ensuring visitor convenience. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav instructed officials to include Lal Bagh Palace, Rampur Kothi, Champa Bawdi and the Shiva Temple in an integrated development plan, enabling tourists to visit all these historical and cultural sites together.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav also reviewed the restoration work at the historic Rampur Kothi. Traditional lime-based techniques are being used to preserve the building's exterior walls, while waterproofing work is being undertaken on the roofs to retain its historical character. He directed officials to ensure that the building's original architectural features and historical significance are preserved during restoration, while providing necessary modern amenities. The Chief Minister also instructed officials to keep him regularly informed about the progress of the works and ensure their completion within the stipulated timeframe.
The memorial, being developed on the land of the former RTO building and Rampur Kothi, is estimated to cost approximately ₹150 crore, with works worth around ₹40 crore proposed in the first phase. The project aims to familiarise future generations with Lokmata Ahilyabai's life, commitment to justice, good governance, public service and cultural contributions.
3D Projections, Light and Sound Show, Museum to Be Major Attractions
The memorial is planned to showcase Lokmata Ahilyabai's life and contributions through modern technology. The proposed attractions include digital presentations, 3D projections, paintings and murals, a light and sound show, and a museum. These facilities will provide students, researchers and tourists with an opportunity to learn about her commitment to good governance, justice, public welfare and the preservation of Indian culture.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav directed officials to design the entrance route and the overall layout of the complex in accordance with visitors' needs and ensure that the significance of all historical sites is presented effectively. The development works are being undertaken with the support of the Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Memorial Trust, Indore, and the Department of Culture, Government of Madhya Pradesh.
Former Lok Sabha Speaker and Memorial Trust Chairperson Smt. Sumitra Mahajan, Water Resources Minister Shri Tulsiram Silawat, MP Shri Shankar Lalwani, Mayor Shri Pushyamitra Bhargava, MLAs Smt. Malini Gaur, Shri Ramesh Mendola, Shri Golu Shukla and Shri Madhu Verma, Collector Shri Shivam Verma, Police Commissioner Shri Santosh Singh, Chief Executive Officer of the District Panchayat Shri Himanshu Prajapati, and office-bearers of the Memorial Trust were present during the inspection.
