Jhansi Fort – What if She Survived?

She stood at the brink of the fort. Wondering if she would survive the fall. Looking back over her shoulder she could see the wild spread of fire that gradually devoured her beloved fort at places. The blood-curdling cries of her fallen troop filled the smoky air; some of which have been silenced forever. The clanking of the swords followed by the fighters' howls of pain wreaked havoc. Everything she knew and everyone she loved are been severed from her mercilessly. Turning to look in front, she realized all were futile. Her pain faded. And she jumped!

Standing at the exact position from where she jumped, a shiver went down my spine. What it takes to be so brave I wondered. What does it take to be Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi?

I am neither going to delve into her history nor her contribution to India’s independence as most of us should be well aware of. In case you are not this is the best time to brush up on your history I would say. Rather here I will take you to the fort of this victorious lady who stood with her head held high even when she knew her time on earth was just numbered.

Atop Bangira hills of Uttar Pradesh is a very unassuming fort, unlike most grand forts of Indian history. Walking up the elevated concrete street it is rather hard to imagine its historical significance but then here it is, the fort that shaped in building of this very country.

Just imagining that the bravest of all warriors, Rani Lakshmibai once walked these cobbled paths should be enough to humble you. The structures around the fort are simple. The city layout at the foothills. The Jhansi Fort remains a constant reminder of what we had and what we lost during our War of Independence.

Khub ladi mardani woh toh Jhansi wali rani thi! (Gallantly as she fought, she was the queen of Jhansi). Here you will feel a sense of pride mingled with a touch of melancholy and wonder what if Rani Lakshmibai had survived the fight (alas! She was just 29 years)?