31 May - Ahilyabai Holkar born in 1725

Ahilyabai Holkar, also known as Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar, was a remarkable queen and ruler of the Malwa kingdom in India. She was born on May 31, 1725, in the village of Chondi in present-day Maharashtra, India, and she ruled from 1767 until her death in 1795. Ahilyabai is remembered as one of the most exceptional women in Indian history and is celebrated for her administrative acumen, benevolence, and dedication to the welfare of her people.

Ahilyabai's husband, Khanderao Holkar, was the ruler of the Malwa kingdom. After his death, she took charge as the queen regent when her father-in-law also passed away, becoming the ruler of the Holkar dynasty. During her reign, she was known for her just and efficient governance, which earned her the admiration of her subjects and ministers.

She is most famous for her contributions to temple construction and restoration. Ahilyabai Holkar was a devout Hindu and a patron of the arts, culture, and religion. She commissioned the construction and renovation of numerous temples, ghats (stepped embankments along rivers), wells, and other public works projects, many of which still stand today as a testament to her legacy.

One of her most significant projects was the restoration and expansion of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. She also commissioned the construction of the famous Maheshwar Fort and the Rajwada Palace in Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh, which served as her capital.

Ahilyabai's rule was marked by her commitment to the welfare of her people, regardless of their social background or caste. She was known for her sense of justice and compassion, and she actively worked to promote trade, agriculture, and infrastructure development in her kingdom.

Ahilyabai Holkar's legacy continues to be celebrated in India, and she remains an inspiration for her strong leadership, compassion, and devotion to her people. Her contributions to architecture, especially in the form of temples and monuments, have left an indelible mark on Indian history and cultural heritage.

31 May - Lala Jagat Narain born in 1899

Lala Jagat Narain was a prominent Indian journalist, freedom fighter, and politician. Born on 31 May 1899, in Wazirabad, Punjab (now in Pakistan), he played a significant role in India's struggle for independence and later in the political landscape of post-independence India. Here are some key points about his life and contributions:

Early Life and Freedom Struggle

• Education and Early Career: Lala Jagat Narain completed his education at D.A.V. College in Lahore and later joined the freedom movement. He was deeply influenced by the Arya Samaj, a reformist movement within Hinduism.
• Freedom Fighter: He was actively involved in the Indian independence movement. He participated in various agitations against British rule and was imprisoned several times for his activities.

Journalism

• Founding Newspapers: Lala Jagat Narain founded the Urdu daily newspaper Pratap in 1946, which became a significant voice against British colonial rule and later a strong advocate for social reforms and Indian unity.
• Punjab Kesari: In 1965, he established the Hindi daily Punjab Kesari, which became one of the leading newspapers in northern India. His journalism was characterized by a strong stance against corruption, social injustices, and separatist movements.

Political Career

• Political Involvement: Lala Jagat Narain was actively involved in politics as a member of the Indian National Congress. He served as a member of the Punjab Legislative Assembly and held various important positions.
• Parliamentary Role: He was elected to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of India's Parliament, where he continued to champion causes related to national integration and communal harmony.

Assassination and Legacy

• Assassination: Lala Jagat Narain was assassinated on  09 September  1981, by militants belonging to the Khalistan movement, which sought an independent Sikh homeland. His assassination was a significant event during the turbulent period of Punjab in the 1980s.
• Legacy: His legacy lives on through the continued publication of Punjab Kesari and through various memorials and institutions named in his honor. He is remembered for his courage, dedication to journalism, and his efforts to promote national unity.

Lala Jagat Narain's life and work left a lasting impact on Indian journalism and politics, particularly in the Punjab region. His commitment to truth, justice, and the national cause continues to inspire many in India.