GET TO KNOW THE JOURNEY OF JINDAN KAUR THROUGH BOOKS

Maharani Jindan Kaur was the last queen of the Sikh Empire from 1843 until 1846. She was the youngest wife of the first Maharaja of the Sikh Empire, Ranjit Singh, and the mother of the last Maharaja, Duleep Singh. Self-sovereignty taught her and Sikhs two things alike - to rule or to rebel.

Maharani Jind Kaur, the youngest and last queen of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, is portrayed in literature as a powerful and courageous figure, a key figure in the Sikh Empire's history, and a symbol of resistance against British colonial rule. 

 Jind Kaur is often depicted as a woman of strong character, who took an active role in governing the Sikh Empire during her son Duleep Singh's minority, and who fought against the British expansion into Punjab. 

 Her story is explored in historical accounts and biographies, including works like The Exile: A Novel Based on the Life of Maharaja Duleep Singh by Navtej Sarna, and Kohinoor by William Dalrymple and Anita Anand. 

 Her story explores themes of power, motherhood, political intrigue, and the struggle for independence and sovereignty. 

Some authors focus on the human side of Jind Kaur, exploring her relationships, her struggles, and her triumphs as a woman and a leader. 

 Her legacy as a brave and determined leader continues to inspire and resonate with readers, solidifying her place in the narrative of Sikh history and the struggle against colonial rule. 

AS A FICTION:

Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's novel The Last Queen focuses on Jind Kaur's life and emphasizes her strength, intelligence, and resilience in adversity. 

In "The Last Queen," Maharani Jindan Kaur, a kennel keeper's daughter who became Maharaja Ranjit Singh's last queen, is portrayed as a strong, passionate, and politically active figure who defied tradition and fought to protect her son's legacy and the Sikh Empire. 

Here's a more detailed look at Jindan Kaur's character and role in the novel:

Background and Rise to Power:

Jindan Kaur, born into a humble family, rose to become Maharaja Ranjit Singh's youngest and last queen, his favorite. She became regent when her son, Dalip Singh, inherited the throne at a young age. 

Defiance of Tradition:

Jindan defied traditional roles for women by leaving the zenana (women's quarters) and becoming politically active, often without her veil. 

Political Struggles:

She became a powerful figure, fighting to prevent the British from annexing Punjab and inspiring her Khalsa troops in two wars. 

Motherhood and Loyalty:

She was a fiercely protective mother, dedicated to protecting her son's heritage and the Sikh Empire. 

British Opposition:

Jindan's power and influence were so formidable that the British imprisoned and exiled her, but she remained resilient and indomitable. 

Portrayal in the Novel:

The novel portrays Jindan as a flawed but strong and inspiring woman, exploring her love story with the king, her relationships with other queens, and her loyalty to the Khalsa. 

Historical Context:

The novel offers a vivid portrayal of the Sikh Empire, its court life, and the internal and external struggles for power, bringing Jindan Kaur's life to life as a powerful and complex historical figure. 

 

In The Last Queen she presents the fierce character of Queen Jindan Kaur, last wife of Ranjit Singh. Rani Jindan's character changes at many stages of life, and each stage presents her hardship and struggle of life. She was the victim of patriarchal society.