Rani Avantibai Lodhi

Why in News?
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled a statue of Veerangana Rani Avantibai Lodhi, paying tribute to her role in the Revolt of 1857.
Who was Rani Avantibai Lodhi?
•    Rani Avantibai Lodhi was the queen associated with the Kingdom of Ramgarh, in present-day Madhya Pradesh.
•    She is remembered as a prominent woman leader who resisted the British East India Company's expansion during the First War of Independence of 1857.
•    Her legacy is particularly associated with courage, patriotism, self-respect and resistance to colonial rule.
Role in the Revolt of 1857
•    Rani Avantibai took charge of her kingdom under difficult circumstances and was noted for her leadership and governance.
•    When the British attempted to take over her kingdom, she refused to submit to British authority.
•    She personally took up arms and mobilised neighbouring rulers to join the anti-British struggle.
•    She was 27 years old in 1857, according to various academic sources.
Battle of Kheri
•    The Battle of Kheri is highlighted as a major episode in her resistance.
•    Rani Avantibai is described as having defeated British forces with the support of farmers and common people
•    The battle demonstrated her military leadership and popular mobilisation.
 Resistance and Martyrdom
•    Even when surrounded by British forces, Rani Avantibai refused to surrender.
•    She chose martyrdom on the battlefield rather than submission.
•    The source also associates her resistance with the use of guerrilla warfare tactics.
 Significance as a Woman Leader
•    Rani Avantibai challenged both British colonial rule and prevailing patriarchal attitudes.
•    Her life demonstrated that women could exercise political authority, military leadership and resistance.
•    She emerged as a symbol of women's courage and leadership during a period when women's participation in armed political struggles was heavily constrained.