Rani Avantibai of Ramgarh
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | March 20, 1988 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 60 p |
| Quantity | 1,000,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Printing Process | Photogravure |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Cerise |
| Credit (Designed By) | Smt. Alka Sharma |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1151 Stamp Number IN 1213 Yvert et Tellier IN 966 Stanley Gibbons IN 1304 |
| Themes | Animals (Fauna) | Commemoration | Famous people | Freedom Fighters | Horses | Queens | Swords | Women |
Brave Queen of Ramgarh and Heroine of the 1857 Revolt
Rani Avantibai (d. 1858) was one of the most courageous women leaders of India who sacrificed her life during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Her bravery and leadership made her a symbol of resistance against British colonial rule.
Early Life and Background
Rani Avantibai was the daughter of Rao Jujhar Singh from Mankeri in present-day Madhya Pradesh. She was married to Vikramaditya Singh, the ruler of Ramgarh State.
After her husband became seriously ill and later passed away, the responsibility of ruling the state fell on her shoulders, as her sons were still minors.
Conflict with the British
In 1851, the British authorities appointed an English Tehsildar to manage the affairs of Ramgarh without her consent. This act deeply insulted her authority, and she resolved to reclaim her kingdom from British control.
Role in the 1857 Revolt
During the uprising of 1857, Rani Avantibai emerged as a strong leader:
- She raised an army of around 4,000 soldiers
- Personally led her forces into battle
- United with other rulers opposing British rule
She marched towards Mandla and confronted British forces at Kheri village, where she defeated the British commander Waddington in her first major victory.
Final Battle and Martyrdom
The British forces later regrouped and attacked Ramgarh. Rani Avantibai moved to the forests of Devharigarh hills, where a fierce battle took place.
Despite her courage and determination, her army was eventually surrounded by the better-equipped British forces. Refusing to surrender, she chose to sacrifice her life on 20 March 1858, becoming a martyr.
Legacy
Rani Avantibai is remembered as a fearless warrior and a symbol of women’s bravery in India’s freedom struggle. Her sacrifice continues to inspire generations.
To honour her contribution, the Department of Posts issued a commemorative postage stamp recognizing her role in the 1857 revolt.
Conclusion
Rani Avantibai’s life is a powerful example of courage, leadership, and patriotism. She remains one of the great heroines of India’s independence movement, whose legacy continues to inspire the nation.