One of the greatest freedom fighters of the country, Rani Laxmi Bai, also known as ‘Jhansi ki Rani’, is an icon for women empowerment. She has gone down in Indian history as a legendary figure and her grit and determination were second to none. Popularly known as India’s ‘Joan of Arc’, she was renowned as one of the leading personalities of the India’s first war of Independence. Laxmibai fought valiantly against the British and left a path-breaking impact on Indian history.
Here is a compilation of some facts about the first woman martyr of India that every patriot must know.
1. She was fondly called ‘Manu’ by everyone
2. Gangadhar was a very able ruler who significantly improved the financial condition of Jhansi
3. She was a braveheart from birth
4. She was accustomed to horseback riding and had three horses
5. She refused to accept the ‘Doctrine of Lapse’ imposed by the British Government
6. Hugh Rose was the commander of the British force against her
7. Her tomb is at the Phool Bagh area in Gwalior
8. The name was given to her by the ‘Peshwa’ of Bithoor district
9. The museum houses a collection of archaeological sculptures which are over 1200 years old
10. The adopted child was named Anand Rao
11. The stamp cost 15 paisa when it was introduced
A great ruler and an even greater fighter, Rani Laxmi Bai deserves all the accolades she gets. At a time when misogynistic and patriarchal views are getting attention around the globe, there couldn’t be a better example than Rani Laxmi Bai for the women to look up to.
Posters Courtsey: Sachin Kaushik