Jalkari Bai

Jalkari Bai was the female leader of a resistance struggle against British rule in India.

She came from a very poor family in Bundelkhand and once killed a tiger with no assistance, using only her axe. She bore a close resemblance to Rani Laxmibai and Laxmibai convinced her to join the women's wing of the Indian army. Bai defended Jhansi fort from British raids in 1857-1858. Immediately before the fort was going to be taken, Bai convinced Laxmibai to escape. Bai then impersonated Laxmibai and took command of the army. By the time the British discovered that Bai was an impostor, Laxmibai was already far away. Bai then fought the British army, but was eventually compelled to surrender. However, the British general released her because he was impressed with her courage and leadership ability.

External links

* [http://www.geocities.com/dakshina_kan_pa/art31/women1.htm Great Women of India, URL accessed 09/01/06]