Kathmandu: India today described Begum Hazrat Mahal, who had rebelled against British colonial rule in the country in 1857-58, as an “extraordinary freedom fighter”.
Laying a wreath at the Jama Masjid here on her 135th death anniversary, India's Ambassador to Nepal Ranjit Rae recalled her contributions towards the freedom movement of India.
“Begum Hazrat Mahal was an extraordinary freedom fighter of India, who played a vital role in India's First War of Independence and her contributions towards the freedom movement of India will always be remembered,” Rae said.
He said: “The tomb of the Begum is a symbol of close friendly relations between Nepal and India and we will celebrate the death anniversary every year.”
Begum, who was married to Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, led the government of Awadh from 1857 to 1858 after her husband was exiled to Calcutta.
