Born: 22 November 1830 (Bhojla village, near Jhansi, India)
Died: 5 April 1858
Biography:
Jhalkaribai (22 November 1830 – 5 April 1858) was a remarkable woman soldier who played a pivotal role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. She served in the women’s army of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi and ultimately became a prominent advisor to the queen.
Jhalkaribai was born to Sadova Singh and Jamunadevi on 22 November 1830 in Bhojla village, near Jhansi, in a Koli/Kori family. From an early age, she displayed exceptional courage and strength. It is said that she bravely fought off a tiger attack and killed the ferocious beast with just an axe. Reports also speak of her killing a leopard in the forest using only a stick she used to herd cattle. These early encounters with danger and her determined spirit shaped her ultimately into an indomitable warrior.
Tragedy struck Jhalkaribai when her mother passed away while she was still very young. Her father took on the responsibility of raising her, ensuring she received training in horseback riding and the use of weaponry. Although she did not have access to formal education due to the social conditions of the time, she became highly skilled in combat skills.
Jhalkaribai’s uncanny resemblance to Rani Lakshmibai led to her induction into the women’s wing of the army. With her fierce determination, she quickly rose through the ranks and eventually commanded her own troops.
During the Rebellion of 1857, General Hugh Rose launched a powerful attack on Jhansi with a large army. The queen, Rani Lakshmibai, confronted the enemy forces with her 14,000 soldiers, hoping for relief from Peshwa Nana Sahib’s army, which was camped at Kalpi. Unfortunately, the expected reinforcements did not arrive because Tantia Tope had already been defeated by General Rose.
To compound their troubles, Dulhaji from the Thakur community, who was in charge of one of the fort’s gates, betrayed his people and opened the doors for the British forces. In the face of this dire situation, on the advice of her courtier, Rani Lakshmibai decided to escape through the Bhanderi gate with her son and attendants, seeking refuge in Kalpi.
In the midst of this chaos, Jhalkaribai took it upon herself to lead the defense. She disguised herself as the queen and made her way to General Rose’s camp. Declaring herself to be Rani Lakshmibai, she caused confusion among the British forces, giving a renewed advantage to the queen’s army. Jhalkaribai’s courage and quick thinking saved countless lives and bought the rebels crucial time.
Jhalkaribai was not only a fearless warrior but also a trusted confidante and advisor to Rani Lakshmibai. She played a vital role in analyzing the battles fought, ensuring the queen made informed decisions and utilized her army’s strengths to their full potential.
Sadly, Jhalkaribai’s life was cut tragically short. She fought valiantly but was ultimately martyred on 5 April 1858. Her death anniversary is now celebrated as Shahid Diwas (Martyr Day) by various Koli organizations.
Jhalkaribai’s legacy lives on and continues to inspire generations. Her story has been instrumental in shaping the Bundeli identity and has contributed to the movement to establish Bundelkhand as a separate state. In recognition of her bravery and sacrifice, the Government of India’s Post and Telegraph department has even issued a postal stamp bearing Jhalkaribai’s image.