Manikarnika, born in 1828, was not a typical child of her era. Nicknamed ‘Manu,’ she grew up in the court of Peshwa Baji Rao II, where she traded dolls for swords and lessons in homemaking for mastery in horse riding and martial arts. Her early life was defined by the mantra: courage is the greatest armor.

The Queen of Jhansi

At a young age, Manu married the Maharaja of Jhansi, Raja Gangadhar Rao Newalkar, and became Rani Lakshmi Bai. She stepped into her royal role with grace and wisdom, quickly winning the hearts of her subjects. However, her life of privilege was quickly challenged by tragedy.

Her world shattered when her husband passed away, and shortly after, the British East India Company invoked the infamous ‘Doctrine of Lapse,’ refusing to recognize her adopted son as the rightful heir. The British demanded the immediate annexation of Jhansi.

The Defining Struggle

The British offer was simple: step aside, accept a pension, and surrender the kingdom. Rani Lakshmi Bai’s response was legendary, a declaration of defiance that echoes through history:

“I will not surrender my Jhansi!“

The year was 1857, and the fire of the First War of Independence had ignited across India. The Queen prepared her fort for war. She mobilized her forces, gathered her women soldiers, and personally led the defense, showing unparalleled military genius. When the British forces laid siege to the city, the Rani stood firm, often seen galloping on horseback, sword in hand, inspiring every soldier and citizen.

The Immortal Legacy

Faced with overwhelming British power, the Rani refused to be captured. She famously escaped the fortress and continued the fight alongside her allies, including Tatya Tope. Her final, heroic battle came in Gwalior. Clad in the armor of a true warrior, she fought fiercely until the very end, protecting her honour and her people’s freedom.

Rani Lakshmi Bai’s life was tragically short, but her struggle defined an era. She was a revolutionary who transcended her time, proving that gender is no barrier to leadership and fierce patriotism. She remains the immortal symbol of bravery, embodying the ultimate commitment to freedom and dignity.

We at Shri Durga Ji Public School celebrate her life as a testament to the power of courage and the unwavering spirit needed to defend one’s principles.

Jai Bhawani!

Celebrating the Indomitable Spirit: Rani Lakshmi Bai’s Birth Anniversary

Shri Durga Ji Public School proudly commemorates the birth anniversary of Rani Lakshmi Bai, the legendary Queen of Jhansi and a beacon of courage during India’s First War of Independence.

Under the guidance of our respected Director/Manager, Mr. Ravindra Prasad, our school is dedicated to instilling the values of bravery, patriotism, and leadership that she exemplified. Rani Lakshmi Bai, or Manikarnika, remains one of the most revered figures in Indian history, symbolizing unwavering determination in the face of insurmountable odds. Her fierce defense of her kingdom and her famous declaration, “I shall not surrender my Jhansi,” continue to motivate generations.

This celebration serves as a powerful reminder to our students that true strength lies not just in power, but in moral courage and commitment to duty. We encourage all members of the Shri Durga Ji Public School family to take inspiration from her legacy as we strive for excellence in education and character building.

We honor her memory and her profound contribution to the nation.

Jai Hind!