By Er. Rajesh Pathak on International Women Day
Famous as the Rani Laxmibai of Nagaland, the brave Rani Gaidinliu waged an armed revolution against the British when she was as young as 16 years of age. She protected Naga culture, aroused the local people against the missionaries’ conversion tactics, and also organized them to fight when required.
In 1932, the British arrested her through a conspiracy. Consequently, she had to spend 13 years in jail and could be released only when the country attained independence in 1947. She was honoured as a queen and awarded the Padma Bhushan by the Government of India.
In free India, she always stood firmly against the secessionist activities launched by foreign forces and aided and abetted by anti-Sanatan Dharma elements at home. Her life inspires us by showing that lack of resources, unfavourable circumstances, and even young age cannot become obstacles in the path of courage.
It also teaches that Naari and Shakti are one and not different. When she is dedicated to the family, she is nurturing and compassionate; yet, when required, she can take up arms like Kali, the goddess of power, showing that wrongdoing will not go unpunished. She is sacred in the form of Sita, and in the form of Savitri she represents devotion and virtue. Likewise, when the question of national devotion arises, she becomes Rani Gaidinliu—a symbol of courage and sacrifice. In the same spirit, the mother of the four martyred Sahibzadas of Sikh history represents that very strength and sacrifice.
