RAJWADA MAHESWAR

Built in 1766 by the legendary Queen Abhilya, only two areas can be visited, the rest of the palace is still inhabited by Prince Richard Holkar who has transformed part of it into charming accommodation. The history of Abhilya is absolutely fascinating. Wife of the crown prince, she helped her husband and father-in-law, Maharaja Malhar Rao Holkar to administer the territory. During the cremation of her husband killed on the battlefield and while she was about to accompany him by jumping into the pyre, her father-in-law held her back. He convinced her that he needed her to continue running the kingdom. She gave up her evil plans and inherited the Holkar empire when her father-in-law died. Under her rule, the city of Maheswar enjoyed a period of unparalleled peace and prosperity. Abhilya also devoted himself to maintaining temples throughout India, including the Vishwanath temple in Varanasi. Religion is still extremely important in Maheswar, especially along the sacred ghats where devotees come to perform their ablutions.

The private temple of the palace can be visited and you can admire some valuable religious ornaments. Abhilya established a daily puja (prayer) here. 111 Brahmins were responsible for making 1,000 clods of earth each, representing each of the souls of the state. Every morning, these little balls were blessed and then offered to the Narmada river. Even today, 11 brahmins perpetuate this tradition and the puja takes place between 8h30 and 9h30.