Rani Lakshmibai
Rani Lakshmibai 
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| Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi | |
| Born | 19 November 1828 |
| Birthplace | Varanasi, British India |
| Died | 18 June 1858 (aged 29) |
| Place of death | Gwalior, British India |
| Resting place | Gwalior, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Queen of Jhansi, Freedom Fighter |
| Years active | 1842–1858 |
| Known for | Role in the 1857 rebellion |
| Notable works | Leadership in 1857 revolt, legacy of women’s bravery |
| Awards | Regarded as a National Heroine of India (posthumous) |
| Spouse(s) | Raja Gangadhar Rao |
| Children | Damodar Rao (adopted) |
| Parents | Moropant Tambe (father) |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Website | |
Rani Lakshmibai (19 November 1828 – 18 June 1858), also known as the Queen of Jhansi, was one of the most prominent leaders of India’s First War of Independence in 1857. Her courage and refusal to submit to British rule made her an enduring symbol of resistance and national pride.
Early Life
[edit | edit source]Born as Manikarnika Tambe in 1828 in Varanasi, she came from a Marathi Brahmin family. Her father, Moropant Tambe, worked for the Peshwa in Bithoor. She was trained in horse riding, sword fighting, and archery from a young age, reflecting an upbringing that encouraged strength and independence.
Marriage and Becoming Queen
[edit | edit source]At age 14, she married Maharaja Gangadhar Rao of Jhansi and was renamed Lakshmibai. After the Maharaja’s death in 1853, their adopted son Damodar Rao was denied succession under the Doctrine of Lapse, leading to the annexation of Jhansi by the British.
Role in the 1857 Rebellion
[edit | edit source]Lakshmibai refused to surrender Jhansi. She assembled an army, trained both men and women, and defended the kingdom fiercely. In March 1858, British forces under Sir Hugh Rose laid siege to Jhansi. After an intense battle, she escaped on horseback with her son and continued the fight.
Death
[edit | edit source]On 18 June 1858, Rani Lakshmibai was killed in battle near Gwalior at the age of 29. Dressed as a soldier, she fought fearlessly and became a martyr for India’s freedom struggle.
Legacy
[edit | edit source]- Celebrated as a national icon of bravery and resistance.
- Immortalized in poetry, including the famous poem “Jhansi ki Rani.”
- Numerous statues and memorials exist across India.
- Her name is honored through educational institutions, roads, forts, and cultural works.
- Her life continues to inspire generations in India and around the world.
See Also
[edit | edit source]- Indian Rebellion of 1857
- Tatya Tope
- Mangal Pandey
- Bahadur Shah Zafar
References
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