Rani Lakshmibai Biography
Rani Lakshmibai
Rani Lakshmibai, also known as the Queen of Jhansi, was a prominent figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
1.Early Life: Rani Lakshmibai was born as Manikarnika Tambe on November 19, 1828, in Varanasi, India. She was also called Manu in her childhood. Her father, Moropant Tambe, worked in the court of Peshwa Baji Rao II of Bithoor, and her mother, Bhagirathi Sapre, was a scholarly woman. Manikarnika received an education that included horsemanship, archery, and self-defense, which was uncommon for girls at that time.
2.Marriage and Becoming Queen: At the age of 14, she married Maharaja Gangadhar Rao Newalkar, the Maharaja of Jhansi, and became the Rani of Jhansi. She was later named Lakshmibai in honor of the Hindu goddess Lakshmi. The couple had a son who died early. They adopted a son, Anand Rao, who was later renamed Damodar Rao.
3.Struggle Against British Rule: After Maharaja Gangadhar Rao's death in 1853, the British East India Company refused to recognize their adopted son as the heir, annexing Jhansi under the Doctrine of Lapse. Rani Lakshmibai appealed to the British, but her pleas were ignored.When the Indian Rebellion of 1857 broke out, Rani Lakshmibai joined the uprising against the British. She led her troops with remarkable bravery and tactical acumen. She famously defended Jhansi against the British forces when they besieged the city in 1858. Despite her efforts, Jhansi fell to the British.
4.Death and Legacy: Rani Lakshmibai escaped and continued to fight alongside other rebel leaders. She died in battle on June 18, 1858, near Gwalior, dressed as a soldier. Her death was a significant event in the rebellion and inspired many future freedom fighters in India.
5.Legacy: Rani Lakshmibai remains a symbol of resistance and bravery in India. Her legacy is celebrated in Indian culture, literature, and education, where she is often portrayed as a fearless leader and martyr.Numerous books, films, and TV series have been produced, inspired by her life. Notably, "Rani Laxmibai" by Vrindavan Lal Verma and "Jhansi Ki Rani" by Mahasweta Devi are prominent literary works that explore her life and contributions to India's struggle for independence.For a more detailed account of her life, you can refer to historical biographies and scholarly articles that explore her role in the 1857 uprising.
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