India will celebrate its 77th Independence Day this year on August 15. This day is a perfect opportunity to remember the efforts and sacrifices of the freedom fighters who laid the groundwork for a country free from British rule. One of the prominent freedom fighters of India was Rani Lakshmi Bai, also known as 'The Rani of Jhansi' or 'Jhansi ki Rani'. She epitomised courage and bravery, inspiring many Indians to rise against British oppression. Born in a Maratha family, she was a prominent name in the struggle for Independence against the Britishers. She is remembered as a brave queen who fought against British rule with courage and determination and became a symbol of resistance and patriotism. Independence Day 2023 Quotes, Jai Hind Slogans & Wishes: Greetings, Sayings, Tiranga Wallpapers, 15th August Images & GIFs To Celebrate Swatantrata Diwas.

Rani Lakshmi Bai, whose original name was Manikarnika, is regarded as one of the greatest freedom fighters of India who was a pivotal figure in the Indian Revolt of 1857. She was born into a Marathi Karhade Brahmin family in Benares on November 19, 1828. Lakshmi Bai married the Maharaja of Jhansi, Gangadhar Rao, in 1842. When he died in 1853, the British East India Company under Governor-General Lord Dalhousie refused to recognize the claim of his adopted heir. It annexed Jhansi under the 'Doctrine of Lapse'. This forced Rani to join the rebellion against the British in 1857. Independence Day 2023 Special: How Indian Armed Forces Grew Since 1947 To Become World's 4th Best and Strongest Military Today.

In early 1858, Jhansi fell to British forces under the command of Hugh Rose. Still, she escaped on horseback and joined the rebels in capturing Gwalior, where they proclaimed Nana Saheb as Peshwa of the revived Maratha Empire.

During the rebellion in 1857, Rani Lakshmi Bai took up arms and actively led her troops against the British forces. She dressed as a male warrior and fought on horseback, displaying exceptional courage and leadership. However, Jhansi eventually fell to the British. She died in June 1858 during the British counterattack at Gwalior. Rani of Jhansi is still celebrated as a national icon. Her contributions to India's freedom movement are remembered even today!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 14, 2023 10:19 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).