The ongoing controversy surrounding demolition activities at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi has triggered widespread concern among historians, heritage conservationists and members of the Holkar family. This is the family that brought renewed focus on the historic contributions of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar and her visionary reforms in Kashi, including the creation of the women-exclusive Jnana Ghat in the 18th century. Historians say the developments have exposed serious gaps in the documentation and preservation of structures associated with one of India’s most respected rulers, whose works played a crucial role in shaping the religious and cultural infrastructure of Varanasi. Holkar state’s enduring presence in Kashi Historical records indicate that the Holkar princely state maintained a dedicated administrative office in Kashi for decades to supervise restoration and construction works carried out under Devi Ahilyabai Holkar’s patronage. According to Khasgi Trust records, her works extended beyond temple restoration to include the construction of ghats along the Ganga, dharamshalas for pilgrims, residential complexes, gardens and the establishment of Brahmpuri for scholars and priests. Historian Zafar Ansari said the current dispute reflects a long-standing neglect of Holkar-era heritage documentation. Personal tragedy that shaped a spiritual ruler Devi Ahilyabai Holkar’s life was marked by profound personal loss. Her husband Khanderao Holkar died in 1754, followed by the death of her father-in-law Malhar Rao Holkar in 1766. The same year, she lost her only son Malerao Holkar to illness, and later her daughter Muktabai also passed away. Records and books suggest that these tragedies led her to consider renouncing power and shifting to Kashi. However, she was persuaded to continue ruling in the interest of her subjects. Instead of stepping away from governance, she dedicated the Holkar throne to Lord Shiva and ruled as a custodian, with official orders issued in the name of Huzoor Shri Shiv Shankar, symbolising that the entire state belonged to the deity. Jnana Ghat: a landmark social reform Among her most progressive contributions was the creation of a dedicated bathing ghat for women at Manikarnika, historically known as Jnana Ghat. Constructed between 1777 and 1785 using her personal funds, the ghat reportedly cost Rs 50,000 and was designed with a 60–65 feet sloping descent into the Ganga. Historians describe the structure as a rare example of gender-sensitive infrastructure during that period, when women often struggled to maintain privacy while bathing at public ghats. The conservationist emphasised that the significance of Jnana Ghat goes beyond architecture. The construction of a separate ghat for women was a remarkable social reform. Ahilyabai Holkar understood issues of dignity and safety at a time when such concerns were rarely addressed by rulers. he said. Adjacent to the ghat, she also constructed a massive gateway known as the Gate of Indore State, symbolising the Holkar administration’s presence in Kashi. Creation of Gupt Kashi in Maheshwar Her devotion to Kashi extended to Maheshwar, where she established a Kashi Vishwanath temple on the banks of the Narmada in 1786, often referred to as Gupt Kashi. The temple, known for its intricate stone carvings of Hindu deities, was constructed over a period of nearly five years. She also invited scholars, Sanskrit experts and priests from across India and established administrative systems for their settlement and sustenance. Concerns over heritage preservation Ansari warned that the recent developments at Manikarnika highlight deeper systemic challenges in heritage protection. Without strong archival systems and verified documentation, historical sites become susceptible to accidental damage or removal. The Manikarnika episode should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to develop comprehensive heritage mapping. he said. He further added, Ahilyabai Holkar’s works are not limited to religious architecture. They represent a governance model that combined spirituality, social welfare and urban planning. Losing such heritage structures would mean erasing vital chapters of Indian history. Holkar Trust seeks restoration Reacting to the controversy, Prince Yeshwantrao Holkar, President of the Khasgi Trust, expressed concern over the reported demolition and called for immediate intervention. Legacy of welfare and devotion Devi Ahilyabai Holkar continues to be remembered as a ruler who blended administrative foresight with spiritual devotion and public welfare. Historians note that institutions and public works established under her rule, including healthcare and pilgrimage infrastructure, reflected her commitment to social service. Ansari reiterated that safeguarding her legacy requires urgent and coordinated efforts. As the controversy unfolds, heritage experts and members of the Holkar family are demanding stronger conservation mechanisms to ensure that historical structures linked to Ahilyabai Holkar are preserved for future generations. How Manikarnika Ghat will look after renovation A 25-meter high chimney will also be installed at this crematorium so that the ashes from the pyre rise into the air and don’t enter homes. The renovation will include sacred water tanks for bathing the dead bodies, waste trolleys, and tonsure areas. The covered cremation area will have five berths, service area, waste collection system, stairs, waiting area, ground floor registration room, 18 platforms for open cremation, wood storage area, community waiting room, and construction of two community toilets. The entire construction work here will be done using stones from Chunar and Jaipur. Post navigation Weather alert in 22 districts of MP:Rain, thunderstorms expected; Indore, Gwalior, Ujjain also likely to be affected
