Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti 2025 : The Rani Of Jhansi Regiment And Women Who Shattered Gender Norms

Add as a preferred source on Google

As we mark the birth anniversary of Subhas Chandra Bose on January 23, 2025, it's an opportunity to revisit the bold, often overlooked chapters of India's freedom struggle. Bose, a revolutionary who fiercely opposed British rule, not only sought independence but envisioned a new India where every citizen had a role in its liberation, regardless of gender.

One of his most revolutionary decisions was the creation of the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, a group of women who broke free from societal constraints and answered the call to fight.

Photo Credit: PTI

While their story has largely been forgotten in mainstream narratives, these women embodied courage, resilience, and the relentless spirit that defined Bose's vision for an independent India. As we reflect on his legacy, it's crucial to honor the extraordinary contributions of the women who stood alongside him in the fight for freedom.

The Rani Of Jhansi Regiment : A Revolutionary Move

During a time when societal norms confined women to domestic roles, Subhas Chandra Bose made a groundbreaking decision to form the Rani of Jhansi Regiment. In 1943, while leading the Indian National Army (INA), Bose sought to harness the power of Indian women in the fight against British imperialism. Inspired by the fierce queen Rani Lakshmibai, who had led her forces in the 1857 rebellion, Bose envisioned a regiment of women who would take up arms in support of India's independence. The formation of this regiment, primarily made up of women from Singapore, Malaya, and Burma, was not just a military strategy, but a powerful statement about gender equality and the future of India.

The Unsung Heroines : Lakshmi Sehgal, Saraswathi Rajamani, And Bela Mitra

The women of the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, such as Lakshmi Sehgal, Saraswathi Rajamani, and Bela Mitra, each played pivotal roles in the INA's efforts and left a lasting impact on India's independence movement. Lakshmi Sehgal, who would later be known as Captain Lakshmi, not only commanded the regiment with unmatched dedication but also went on to become a prominent figure in Indian politics and social work after the war.

Saraswathi Rajamani, the youngest spy in the INA, demonstrated exceptional courage and commitment to the cause, despite the risks she faced. After the war, she fought tirelessly for recognition of the INA's contributions. Bela Mitra, another distinguished operative, continued her service to India post-independence, assisting refugees from East Pakistan. Each of these women, through their service and sacrifices, contributed significantly to India's fight for freedom, defying societal expectations and blazing a trail for future generations of women to follow.

A Bold Challenge To Gender Norms

At the time, Indian women were generally seen as home-makers, far removed from the political and military spheres. The very idea of women fighting for freedom was considered radical. Yet, the women who joined the Rani of Jhansi Regiment broke through these limitations. Although they were largely not involved in direct combat, their very participation in this movement was a significant challenge to conventional gender roles. For many women from humble backgrounds and limited formal education, this was a step towards empowerment, both as citizens of India and as individuals with a newfound sense of agency.

The INA And Its Struggles : The Aftermath of War

Despite the courage and dedication shown by the members of the INA, both male and female, the post-war period was harsh. With the dissolution of the INA after World War II, the men were subjected to treason trials, while the women, many of whom had not been involved in direct military action, were dismissed as misguided. The remarkable efforts of the women in the Rani of Jhansi Regiment were not recognized by the government, and many of these heroines were forced to return to traditional roles. Their struggles for recognition, including pensions and acknowledgment, were largely ignored for decades.

The Enduring Legacy Of The Rani Of Jhansi Regiment

Although the Rani of Jhansi Regiment was short-lived, its impact on the independence movement cannot be overstated. These women, who took the brave step of joining the INA, demonstrated a radical shift in the way Indian society viewed the roles of women. Their participation in the fight for freedom became a symbol of courage and resistance that transcended traditional boundaries. Today, the legacy of the regiment continues to inspire generations of Indian women to pursue greater autonomy and equality.

As we honor Subhas Chandra Bose on his Jayanti in 2025, it's vital to remember not only his leadership and vision but also the women who answered his call for India's freedom. The women of the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, though often overlooked in the official narratives of India's liberation, played a pivotal role in the broader struggle against British colonialism.

Photo Credit: PTI

Their bravery and unwavering spirit set a powerful precedent, inspiring future generations of women to break free from societal constraints and actively participate in shaping India's future. It's time to acknowledge and honor these forgotten heroines, whose pivotal roles in the struggle for independence deserve to be recognized as an integral part of India's history.