The Union Home Ministry has officially approved the renaming of Ahmednagar district and city to Ahilyanagar, a decision celebrated by state revenue minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil. This change, proposed by the Maharashtra state cabinet in March, honors Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar, the 18th-century queen of the Maratha-Malwa kingdom, who was born in Chaundi within the district.
The renaming aligns with the commemoration of Ahilyabai’s 300th birth anniversary this year. Patil described the decision as a “historic event,” reflecting a growing trend in the state to honor regional history and figures. The Bharatiya Janata Party had advocated for the change since February, following similar name changes in Aurangabad and Osmanabad.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the new name during a ceremony in Chaundi, coinciding with the celebration of Ahilya Devi Jayanti. Following the announcement, the state sought prompt approval from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who supported the proposal.
Additionally, the Railway Ministry has confirmed that there are no objections to renaming the railway station to Ahilyanagar. Historically, Ahmednagar was named after Ahmed Nizamshah, the founder of the Nizamshahi dynasty in the 15th century. As the largest district in Maharashtra by area, this renaming reflects a significant cultural shift in the region.
