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Krisha Lalwani

Begum Hazrat Mahal

India's way to freedom was an enormous struggle for the nation. We're all aware that famous people like Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, Rani Laxmi Bai and Subhas Chandra Bose and many more paved the way for India's independence. However, there were several others who were equally as valorous and hardworking towards the independence of India, and deserve a tribute. What about such unsung heroes?


Among the voices unheard lies the voice of Begum Hazrat Mahal. She was extremely intelligent and very creative. She soon became a ‘Mutah’ (Temporary) wife of Wajid Ali Shah, the Nawab of Awadh. The Nawab had many mutah wives, and those who gave him sons were given the title of ‘Begum’ or the official wives.


After Begum Hazrat bore him a son, she became one of the favorite official younger queens. In 1856 the Nawab had to leave Awadh, after his kingdom was annexed by the British East India Company. He set sail for Calcutta, but could not accommodate his numerous wives and servants. Those who were left behind in Awadh included Begum Hazrat Mahal and her son Birgis Qadr, heir to the throne.


The infamous ‘Doctrine of Lapse’, which the British used as an excuse to annex kingdoms across the board caused great resentment. The hanging of Mangal Pandey triggered India's first war of independence. The son of Begum Hazrat Mahal, at the time was too young to lead, at age 12. It was Begum who took over the reins of the administration during this crucial period. She united Hindus and Muslims against the British, then encouraged women to become warriors and join the war. She also took other measures to defend the city from the British.


She passed away in 1879 leaving a mark of her own. A postage stamp is issued in honor of the indomitable Begum, who became one of the few, courageous women to fight against the British in the First War of Independence.















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