Birth Anniversary of Rani Lakshmibai | 20 Nov 2025

Source: PIB

The Prime Minister of India has paid tributes to Rani Lakshmibai on her birth anniversary.

• Rani Lakshmibai: Also known as Manikarnika, she was the queen of the Maratha-ruled state of Jhansi and a leading figure of the Revolt of 1857. 
  • She is remembered as a symbol of bravery and resistance against British rule.
• Early Life: Born on 19th November 1828 in Varanasi as Manikarnika, she grew up learning horse riding, shooting and fencing. 
  • Her childhood companions included Nana Sahib and Tatya Tope, who later became key leaders in the 1857 uprising.
• Manikarnika as Rani of Jhansi: At 14, Manikarnika married Maharaja Gangadhar Rao and became Rani Lakshmibai. 
  • After losing her infant son, she and the Maharaja adopted Damodar Rao from the royal family to secure the succession.
• Role in the Struggle for Independence: After the Maharaja’s death in 1853, the British rejected Damodar Rao’s claim using the Doctrine of Lapse, which allowed annexation if a ruler died without a natural male heir. 
  • Rani Lakshmibai resisted fiercely, leading her troops in the 1857 revolt. She died in battle on 17th June 1858. 
• Legacy: The Indian National Army, founded by Subhas Chandra Bose, established a women's regiment named after the Queen of Jhansi to honor the contributions of women in the freedom struggle.