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Rani Lakshmibai is the epitome of female bravery. She was the queen of the Maratha-ruled princely state of Jhansi in North India. She was one of the greatest nationalist heroine and leading figures of the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

She was born on 19th November 1835 at Kashi (presently known as Varanasi). Childhood name of Rani Lakshmi Bai was Mannikarnika (Manu). She lost her mother at the age of four. Manu was educated at home and learned horse riding, sword fighting, shooting on a target with a gun and other fierce battle techniques.

She married Gangadhar Rao, the Raja of Jhansi, at the age of 14. After her marriage, she was given the name Lakshmi Bai. Rani was eighteen when her husband, Raja Gangadhar Rao died. At that time Lord Dalhousie was the Governor-General of India. In the absence of a legal heir to the throne, British ruler ordered Rani Lakshmibai to leave the Jhansi fort. Rani Jhansi was determined not to give up Jhansi and get rid of Britishers. Rani Lakshmi Bai did not lost her courage and determination, she always remembered her responsibility.

She strengthened the defense system of Jhansi and assembled a volunteer army of rebels. Women were given military training to equip them to battle on the battlefield. When the Britishers attacked Jhansi in March 1958, Rani Jhansi along with her brave and faithful warriors fought with the British army. The battle continued for about two weeks. Rani Lakshmi Bai fought the battle fiercely. However, after the war, Jhansi fell to the British forces.

Rani Jhansi fought the battle with patriotism and martyrdom. She will be remembered forever for her courage, bravery, endurance and wisdom. The first female unit of the Indian National Army was named after her. Veer Ras poem on Rani Laxmibai are recited by school children. Rani Laxmibai is an icon and has set an example for the younger generation.