Lucknow, March 20 Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid tributes to Rani Avantibai Lodhi on Friday, commemorating her death anniversary, describing her as an inspiring example of women's power and patriotism, particularly for her valiant fight against British rule.
"A humble tribute on the martyrdom day of Rani Avantibai Lodhi – a heroine of the First War of Independence of 1857 and an immortal symbol of national self-respect."
"Her unparalleled courage, leadership, and supreme sacrifice in defending the motherland constitute a golden chapter in Indian history. Her life stands as an inspiring example of women's power and patriotism," Adityanath said in a post on X in Hindi.
According to the official website of Rani Avantibai Lodhi University in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, Rani Avantibai Lodhi displayed bravery and courage from a young age.
On this day in March 1858, when the British army attacked, she fought valiantly. Seeing herself surrounded by British forces, she sacrificed herself with her sword to prevent them from touching her body.
Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak also paid tributes to the queen on X from Ramgarh.
"A humble tribute to Rani Avantibai Lodhi – the immortal 'veerangana' of the 1857 War of Independence and a symbol of indomitable courage and valour. Her unparalleled bravery and supreme sacrifice in defending the motherland will forever inspire patriotism, self-respect, and courage," Maurya wrote.
Pathak said, "A humble tribute to the immortal warrior, Rani Avantibai Lodhi – a great fighter who dedicated her entire life to upholding the honour of the nation and an embodiment of 'Nari Shakti' (women's power)."
Uttar Pradesh BJP chief Pankaj Chaudhary wrote on X that the nation will forever remember Rani Avantibai Lodhi's "unparalleled courage, fearless struggle, and extraordinary sacrifice."