Legend Of Kiran Devi Rathore: Rajput Princess Who Made Akbar Beg For Mercy

The history we are taught in school is often glossed over, with many remarkable figures lost in the shadows of time. One such forgotten person is Kiran Devi Rathore, a princess of Bikaner known for her extraordinary courage and beauty. While her name may not be as widely recognised as Rani Lakshmi Bai, Kittur Rani Channamma or the like, her story of defiance, strength, and bravery is equally compelling. Although the authenticity of Kiran Devi's story is debated, it symbolises the bravery and role of Rajput women in resisting Mughal dominance.

When Akbar's Life Flashed Before His Eyes

In an intriguing painting displayed at Junagarh Fort, Bikaner, Kiran Devi Rathore is seen brandishing a dagger at Mughal emperor Akbar, as he pleads for life. What drove her to commit this daring act? How did the great Akbar end up in this predicament? The folklore behind this image is deeply connected to the warrior Rajput ethos and tradition.

First, let's learn a little more about Akbar beyond the heroics we learn in our school textbooks. The Mughal ruler was quite the philanderer, as documented in many historical records. He often organised Meena Bazaars or Nourouz Fairs disguised as charity events so he could pick young women-- typically belonging to prestigious families-- for his harem.

Many historians have documented their observations from these fairs. Venetian writer Niccolao Manucci, who visited and stayed in India during the Mughal era, wrote a firsthand witness of many Mughal emperors recruiting women from Meena Bazaar. English traveller Thomas Coryat, who visited India in 1615, also wrote about how Shah Jahan visited the fair for women.

It was at the Nourouz Fair that Kiran Devi Rathore caught his eye. She was the daughter of Shakti Singh of Mewar (brother of Maharana Pratap) and wife of Prithviraj Rathore, a renowned Rajput from the Bikaner lineage. Akbar was enchanted by her beauty and longed to be with her for a night. Akbar approached her and said, "We want to make you our queen."

Kiran Devi retreated, however, Akbar followed her. His guards blocked her way. Akbar urged her to be his mistress for the night. As he reached for her, quick as a flash, she took out a dagger from the folds of her attire and pressed the sharp blade against the emperor's throat. His guards stood in horror as he fell to the ground and started pleading for mercy.

Kiran Devi put a foot on Akbar's chest and asserted, "I am the Rajkumari of Mewar. I will kill the enemy, or die, but never surrender."

This is the valiant moment captured in the painting at Junagarh Fort. Some texts say that Kiran Devi let Akbar go on one condition-- to stop the practice of Meena Bazaar and Nourouz Fair, traditions that objectified women and snatched them of their autonomy. Akbar agreed and walked away in silence. Akbar did not dare to approach her again.

This powerful moment is a testament to Kiran Devi Rathore’s defiance against one of the most powerful Mughal rulers. While her name has faded from mainstream history, her story stands as a symbol of Rajput valour, resilience, and unyielding spirit. Her story is a reminder that true strength is not just in battle, but in standing firm against injustice.