Rani Lakshmibai’s journey began in the holy city of Varanasi (then Kashi), where she was born around 1828. Encyclopedia Britannica+2Accessible Learning World+2 From a young age she was not confined by conventional gender roles: her father, who served in the court of Baji Rao II, encouraged her to learn horse-riding, swordsmanship, archery and other martial skills — unusual training for a girl in that era. Encyclopedia Britannica+1
In 1842 (some sources suggest 1852), she married the king of the princely state of Jhansi, Gangadhar Rao Newalkar, and was given the name “Lakshmibai.” Encyclopedia Britannica+1 Her marriage, however, was soon followed by tragedy: her biological son died in infancy, and after her husband’s death the British refused to recognize the adopted heir under the “Doctrine of Lapse.” Encyclopedia Britannica+1
Despite these adversities, Lakshmibai did not retreat into sorrow. Instead, she used her training, her intelligence, and her fearless spirit to prepare for what would come — a fight for her land, her people, and her honor. Her early life laid the foundation for the courage and leadership that made her a legend.