Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh unveils the statue of Veerangana Rani Avantibai Lodhi in Lucknow
Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh today unveiled the statue of Veerangana Rani Avantibai Lodhi and paid tribute to the legendary freedom fighter. He said that her courage, patriotism, and supreme sacrifice during the First War of Independence in 1857 remain a glorious chapter in India’s history.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Rajnath Singh said that Rani Avantibai Lodhi took charge of her kingdom under extremely difficult circumstances and established an exemplary record of good governance. When the British attempted to take over her kingdom through deceit, she refused to bow before them. She not only took up arms herself but also inspired neighbouring rulers to join the struggle against British rule.
The Defence Minister highlighted that Rani Avantibai Lodhi was only 27 years old in 1857 when she stood firmly against the powerful British rule. He said that her leadership during the Battle of Kheri, where she defeated the British forces with the support of farmers and common people, demonstrated her exceptional military leadership and valour.
Shri Rajnath Singh said that even when she was surrounded by the British forces, Rani Avantibai Lodhi refused to surrender and chose martyrdom on the battlefield. Her life, he said, teaches us that one must never compromise with self-respect and must stand firmly against injustice. When it comes to defending the motherland, one must be prepared to sacrifice everything.
He said that the statue is not merely a means of preserving the memory of Rani Avantibai Lodhi, but also a medium to acquaint future generations with her courage, self-respect, leadership and sacrifice.
“This statue is not merely a structure of iron and stone; it is a living representation of India’s glorious history.” Shri Rajnath Singh said.
The Defence Minister said that the Government has consistently worked to recognise India’s national icons, honour their contributions and take their legacy to future generations. He emphasised that the ideals and role models of India’s youth should come from India’s own rich civilisational and historical heritage.
From Veerangana Rani Avantibai Lodhi to Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, India has a rich legacy of great personalities who devoted their lives to the nation and society, he said. Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, five places associated with the life of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar have been developed as ‘Panch Teerth’.
The Defence Minister said that the legacy of Rani Avantibai Lodhi should be remembered for two important reasons. First, her life demonstrated that standing against injustice and slavery is the duty of every citizen. Second, Rani Avantibai Lodhi challenged not only British rule but also social attitudes that had long underestimated the capabilities of women.
Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh said that India’s women warriors have demonstrated their courage both on the battlefield and in governance. Today, from the heights of Siachen to the depths of the seas, women are strengthening India’s national security. He said that women pilots and soldiers also played an important role during Operation Sindoor in India’s actions against terrorism.
“This is the Nari Shakti of New India, which is moving forward and providing leadership in every field,” he said.
Speaking about women’s safety in Uttar Pradesh, Shri Rajnath Singh said that the situation has changed significantly under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath. He said that ensuring women’s safety and taking stringent action against criminals have been among the priorities of the state government.
He said that earlier parents of daughters used to remain worried about their safety, whereas today criminals and their families are concerned about the consequences of their actions. The government, he said, has broken the morale of those who attempt to threaten the dignity and safety of women.
Shri Rajnath Singh concluded by saying that Rani Avantibai Lodhi dedicated her entire life to the nation and that it is now the responsibility of the present generation to take her legacy of courage, patriotism and self-respect to future generations.