​AHLIA BAI ( ? –1795)

Wife of Khandi Rao Holkar, (who died 1754), son of Malhar Rao Holkar, of Indore. On the latter's death, in 1765, Mali Rao, son of Khandi and Ahlia, succeeded to the throne, but died in 9 months. Then Ahlia assumed the government, chose Takaji Holkar as her minister, and ruled till her death in 1795. She transacted business daily, unveiled, in open darbar from 2 p.m : had great ability and character, was deeply religious, and governed admirably.