Maharaja Tukoji Rao Holkar III

Maharaja Tukoji Rao Holkar III (1890–1978) was the Maharaja of the princely state of Indore, reigning from 1903 until his abdication in 1926. As a progressive and forward-thinking ruler, he prioritised modernising his state, and improving infrastructure, education, and public health. Under his reign, Indore saw the development of modern amenities such as better roads, hospitals, and educational institutions. Notably, he championed the establishment of the Holkar Science College and other initiatives that aimed to uplift and educate his subjects. However, his tenure also faced challenges, including growing nationalist sentiments and calls for greater Indian independence from British colonial rule. In 1926, Tukoji Rao III voluntarily abdicated the throne due to personal and political pressures, passing on the responsibility to his son, Yeshwantrao Holkar II.