Maheshwar

Maheshwar stands on the north bank of the Narmada, its temples, fort and stone ghats overlooking the sacred river. Some writers identify it with ancient Mahishmati, celebrated in Hindu tradition as the capital of King Kartavirya Arjuna. The town's name means “Great God,” an epithet of Shiva. In the late eighteenth century Maheshwar was the capital of the Maratha ruler Ahilyabai Holkar. She adorned the town with buildings and public works, including her palace and the riverfront ghats. Her patronage also encouraged the weaving for which Maheshwar became known. The Holkar capital remained here until 1818, when Malhar Rao Holkar III moved it to Indore.