The Famed Monarch of Jhansi - Colonial India in 19th Century
Manikarnika born to Moropant Tambe (Father) and Bhagirathi Sapre (Mother) on Nov. 19, 1828, in Varanasi. According to some historians she was also named as Manu and/or Kashi. She was married to Gangadhar Rao Newalkar and adopted Damodar Rao, however, she died in 1857 revolt on June 18, 1858, near Kothah ki Serai, Gwalior, India
The legendary figure played a significant role against British Raj during 1857 Revolt
Reasons for the 1857 Rebellion at Jhansi :
After the death of Maharaja Gangadhar Rao in 1853, the then Governor General of India, Lord Dalhousie rejected to recognize adopted son as his heir, Jhansi was annexed under the doctrine of lapse
- Manikarnika was known to Britishers as "Raani of Jhansi", she refused to surrender
- Till then, she sought permission from British Captain Alexander Skene to build an armed group for her security
- However, Gwalior Fort was captured by 12th Bengal Native Infantry Rebels and Britishers consider 'Raani Jhansi' responsible for the Massacre
- Her appeal to protect Jhansi fell on deaf ears, nevertheless, courageous Jhansi was not deterred by this and managed to defeat invaders, thus ruled peacefully till 1858
- Raani had built Jhansi Fort heavily equipped with guns and received help from Tantia Tope
- Sir Huge Rose, the Commander of Central Indian Field Force, declared to cede Jhansi
- Yet, valiant Raani put up tough resistance to the British Forces, although she was overpowered later by the powerful British
- Raani managed to escape with his son Damodar on her horse Badal and decamped to Kalpi
- Laxmibaai fought a fierce battle against 8th (Kings Royal Irish) Hussars under Captainship of Heneage
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