Rani Lakshmi Bai was the queen of the princely state of Jhansi, which is located on the northern side of India. She was an epitome of bravery and courage and one of the most leading personalities of the first war of India’s independence that started in 1857.

Early Life

   She was born to a Maharashtrian family at Kashi (now Varanasi) in the year 1828. During her childhood, she was called by the name Manikarnika. Affectionately, her family members called her Manu. At a tender age of four, she lost her mother.

   As a result, the responsibility of raising her fell upon her father. While pursuing her studies, she also took formal training in martial arts, which included horse riding, shooting and fencing. In 1842, she got married to the Maharaja of Jhansi, Raja Gangadhar Rao Niwalkar.

   On getting married, she was given the name Lakshmi Bai. Her wedding ceremony was held at the Ganesh temple,....