What makes a queen leave her palace and pick up the sword against a powerful empire? This is the story of Begum Hazrat Mahal — a brave woman who chose courage over comfort. She was the queen of Awadh and one of the first female leaders to fight against British rule in India.
Born in 1820, Begum Hazrat Mahal was originally named Muhammadi Khanum. She became the wife of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. When the British took over Awadh and sent her husband into exile, she did not stay silent. She took control and led the people of Lucknow in the Revolt of 1857.
She stood firm against the British, leading her army from the front. She even took back control of Lucknow for a short time. At a time when women were expected to stay in the background, she became the face of resistance.
Very few women in history have shown such bravery. According to records, she refused offers from the British and chose to fight for her land. Her leadership inspired many others to rise.
If you want a quick summary of her courage and legacy, you can explore “10 Lines On Begum Hazrat Mahal In English” — a powerful tribute to one of India’s earliest female freedom fighters. Begum Hazrat Mahal is not just a name. She is a symbol of strength, pride, and true patriotism in India’s freedom struggle.
Who was Begum Hazrat Mahal? (10 Points)
- Name: Born as Muhammadi Khanum, later known as Begum Hazrat Mahal.
- Birthplace: Faizabad, Awadh (now in Uttar Pradesh).
- Married to: Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the ruler of Awadh.
- Role: Played a significant part in the Revolt of 1857.
- Leadership: Took charge after the British exiled her husband.
- Symbol of resistance: Fought bravely against British forces in Lucknow.
- Support for Indian soldiers: Supported rebel Indian sepoys during the mutiny.
- Advocated for independence: Opposed British policies and annexation of Awadh.
- Refuge: After defeat, took shelter in Nepal.
- Legacy: Remembered as a national heroine and freedom fighter.
What is the short story of Begum Hazrat Mahal?
Begum Hazrat Mahal was a brave queen of Awadh who rose against British rule during the Revolt of 1857. After her husband, Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, was exiled by the British, she took over the leadership in Lucknow.
She supported the Indian rebels and fought against the British to restore Awadh’s freedom. Even after facing defeat, she refused to surrender and sought refuge in Nepal. She is remembered as a fearless patriot and one of the earliest women freedom fighters of India.
Who was Begum Hazrat Mahal? (Class 8 Level)
Begum Hazrat Mahal was a queen of Awadh who fought against the British during the Revolt of 1857. When the British removed her husband from power, she led the rebellion in Lucknow.
She supported Indian soldiers and opposed British rule. Although the revolt was not successful, she became a symbol of courage and patriotism.
What was the role of Begum Hazrat Mahal in the freedom struggle?
- She led the revolt in Lucknow during the 1857 uprising.
- Opposed British annexation of Awadh.
- Actively supported rebel soldiers and local leaders.
- Took over administration and fought for Indian sovereignty.
- Refused British offers and chose exile over surrender.
- Became a symbol of female leadership in India’s freedom movement.
Who are the freedom fighters of India? (List of Prominent Names)
- Mahatma Gandhi – Leader of the Indian independence movement.
- Subhas Chandra Bose – Led the Indian National Army.
- Jawaharlal Nehru – First Prime Minister and freedom activist.
- Bhagat Singh – Revolutionary who fought British rule.
- Rani Lakshmibai – Queen of Jhansi, fought in 1857.
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel – Leader and unifier of India.
- Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Bipin Chandra Pal – Lal-Bal-Pal trio.
- Mangal Pandey – Sparked the 1857 rebellion.
- Annie Besant – Supported Indian self-rule.
- Begum Hazrat Mahal – Rebel queen in 1857 revolt.
10 Lines On Begum Hazrat Mahal In English
Begum Hazrat Mahal was a fearless freedom fighter and the queen of Awadh who played a crucial role in the 1857 revolt against British rule. Her courage and leadership remain a symbol of strength and patriotism in Indian history.
- Begum Hazrat Mahal was born in 1820 and rose to become the wife of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Awadh.
- After the British exiled her husband, she took charge of the kingdom in his absence.
- She played a leading role in the First War of Independence in 1857.
- She fiercely resisted British forces and temporarily seized control of Lucknow.
- Begum Hazrat Mahal allied with other rebel leaders to strengthen the revolt.
- She rejected British offers of reward and surrender, standing firm for India’s freedom.
- Her administrative skills and battlefield bravery inspired many during the uprising.
- After losing ground, she sought asylum in Nepal where she spent her last days.
- Her contributions were long overlooked but are now honored in Indian history.
- Begum Hazrat Mahal remains a powerful icon of resistance and female leadership.
Begum Hazrat Mahal Essay – 100 Words
Begum Hazrat Mahal was a brave freedom fighter who played a significant role in the First War of Indian Independence in 1857. Born in 1820 in Faizabad, she became the wife of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Awadh.
When the British annexed Awadh and exiled her husband, she took charge of the resistance. Hazrat Mahal fought valiantly to protect Lucknow from British control. She supported Rani Lakshmibai and other revolutionaries.
Despite being defeated, she never gave up her fight for India’s freedom. Her courage and leadership have made her a symbol of resistance against British colonialism.
Begum Hazrat Mahal Essay – 150 Words
Begum Hazrat Mahal, born in 1820 in Faizabad, was a fearless freedom fighter and the wife of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Awadh. When the British annexed Awadh under the Doctrine of Lapse and exiled her husband to Calcutta, Hazrat Mahal refused to surrender.
She took up arms and became one of the key figures in the 1857 revolt against British rule. She seized control of Lucknow and declared her young son as the ruler. Her leadership during the uprising was commendable, and she actively coordinated with other freedom fighters like Rani Lakshmibai.
Even after facing defeat, she continued to resist the British and finally sought asylum in Nepal, where she died in 1879. Begum Hazrat Mahal’s life was marked by courage, patriotism, and unwavering dedication to India’s independence. Today, she is remembered as one of the earliest female icons of India’s freedom struggle.
Begum Hazrat Mahal Essay – 200 Words
Begum Hazrat Mahal was one of the earliest female leaders to rebel against British rule in India. Born in 1820 in Faizabad, she was originally known as Muhammadi Khanum.
She later became a part of the royal court of Awadh and married Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. After the British annexed Awadh in 1856 and exiled her husband, Hazrat Mahal took charge of the rebellion in Lucknow during the 1857 First War of Independence.
Displaying immense courage and political acumen, she declared her young son, Birjis Qadr, as the ruler and herself as regent. She led the local forces to fight the British and successfully captured parts of Lucknow. Her leadership inspired many, and she formed alliances with other revolutionary leaders like Nana Sahib and Rani Lakshmibai.
Despite her brave efforts, British forces eventually recaptured Lucknow, and she had to retreat. Refusing to surrender, she fled to Nepal, where she lived until her death in 1879. The Nepalese government granted her asylum out of respect for her bravery.
Begum Hazrat Mahal is a symbol of resistance, strength, and patriotism. Her sacrifices and contributions to India’s freedom struggle are remembered with honor and pride.
Begum Hazrat Mahal Essay – 300 Words
Begum Hazrat Mahal was a courageous leader and one of the earliest female figures in India’s struggle for independence. She was born in 1820 in Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh, and was originally named Muhammadi Khanum. She became a courtesan and later married Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Awadh, rising to the status of Begum.
In 1856, when the British East India Company annexed Awadh under the Doctrine of Lapse and exiled the Nawab to Calcutta, Begum Hazrat Mahal refused to accept British authority.
During the 1857 revolt, she emerged as a powerful leader, took control of Lucknow, and declared her son Birjis Qadr the ruler of Awadh. As regent, she coordinated resistance efforts and inspired her people to fight against British tyranny.
Her leadership during the rebellion was marked by strategic military planning and fierce resistance. Despite limited resources, she managed to control Lucknow for a brief period.
However, the British forces eventually regained control after intense fighting. Even after defeat, she refused to surrender and sought asylum in Nepal, where she lived in exile until her death in 1879.
Begum Hazrat Mahal is remembered for her bravery, leadership, and uncompromising stance against colonialism. A park in Lucknow, Hazrat Mahal Park, and a commemorative stamp issued in her honor reflect her enduring legacy.
Her role in the revolt of 1857 is a testimony to the strength of women in India’s freedom movement. She not only defied the British but also broke societal norms to take on a leadership role during a time when women were rarely seen in politics or war.
Begum Hazrat Mahal’s contributions continue to inspire generations, making her a prominent figure in the history of India’s independence struggle.
Begum Hazrat Mahal Essay – 500 Words
Begum Hazrat Mahal stands as a towering figure in the early phase of India’s freedom struggle, particularly known for her bravery and leadership during the Revolt of 1857.
Born in 1820 in Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh, she was initially named Muhammadi Khanum. Coming from a humble background, she later became a courtesan and entered the royal harem of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, eventually becoming one of his wives and earning the title Begum Hazrat Mahal.
Her life took a dramatic turn when the British East India Company annexed Awadh in 1856, deposing her husband and sending him into exile in Calcutta. In the absence of the Nawab, Begum Hazrat Mahal stepped into the political arena and began organizing resistance against the British.
During the First War of Indian Independence in 1857, she emerged as a strong leader, seizing control of Lucknow and declaring her son, Birjis Qadr, as the ruler of Awadh.
As regent, she managed the affairs of the state and mobilized forces against British occupation. Her strong alliance with other leaders of the revolt, including Nana Sahib, Tantia Tope, and Rani Lakshmibai, showed her remarkable political acumen.
She played a central role in defending Lucknow from British attacks, holding the city for several months. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, her troops demonstrated immense valor.
However, the rebellion was eventually crushed by the British, and Hazrat Mahal was forced to retreat. Refusing to submit, she fled with her son to Nepal. The Nepalese government, impressed by her courage, granted her asylum. She spent the remainder of her life in exile and passed away in 1879 in Kathmandu.
Begum Hazrat Mahal’s contribution to the Indian freedom struggle is often overshadowed by other leaders, but her impact remains significant. She broke traditional gender roles by assuming political and military leadership during a time when women were largely confined to the domestic sphere.
Her fearless stand against colonialism, her deep sense of justice, and her ability to lead in times of crisis make her a symbol of resistance and female empowerment.
In recognition of her contributions, the Government of India issued a commemorative stamp in her honor in 1984. Hazrat Mahal Park in Lucknow also stands as a memorial to her enduring legacy.
Her life teaches us that courage knows no gender and that leadership arises not just from privilege but from conviction. Begum Hazrat Mahal’s story is not just of rebellion but also of resilience, sacrifice, and undying patriotism. She paved the way for future generations of women to participate actively in India’s political and social spheres.
Begum Hazrat Mahal will always be remembered as one of the earliest and fiercest defenders of Indian sovereignty against British colonial rule.
Begum Hazrat Mahal Essay – 1000 Words
Begum Hazrat Mahal was a remarkable woman who defied all odds to become one of the foremost leaders in India’s struggle against British rule during the First War of Independence in 1857. Her courage, political foresight, and unwavering determination make her a shining symbol of resistance and patriotism.
Though often overshadowed by other historical figures, Begum Hazrat Mahal played a pivotal role in challenging British imperialism and protecting the sovereignty of Awadh (modern-day Uttar Pradesh).
Early Life and Rise to Power
Begum Hazrat Mahal was born in 1820 in Faizabad, Awadh, and was named Muhammadi Khanum at birth. Coming from a humble background, she faced many challenges early in life. She was initially part of the royal court as a courtesan and later became one of the wives of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the ruler of Awadh.
Upon her marriage, she was given the title ‘Begum Hazrat Mahal.’ She bore a son named Birjis Qadr, who would later become a symbolic ruler during the revolt.
Wajid Ali Shah was a patron of the arts and culture, but his rule was disrupted when the British East India Company annexed Awadh in 1856 under the infamous Doctrine of Lapse.
The British accused him of misgovernance and exiled him to Calcutta. This event marked a turning point in Hazrat Mahal’s life. With her husband in exile and the throne of Awadh left unguarded, she emerged as a political leader and took charge of the resistance against British domination.
Role in the Revolt of 1857
When the Revolt of 1857 broke out, Begum Hazrat Mahal seized the opportunity to challenge British authority. She declared her son, Birjis Qadr, as the rightful ruler of Awadh and assumed the role of regent. Under her leadership, Lucknow became one of the major centers of resistance.
Begum Hazrat Mahal’s leadership was extraordinary in many ways. At a time when women were confined to domestic roles, she stepped into the male-dominated world of politics and warfare.
She commanded troops, forged alliances with other rebel leaders, and planned strategic military actions. Her forces managed to recapture parts of Lucknow and resist British attempts to regain control.
She worked closely with other prominent figures of the revolt such as Nana Sahib, Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, and Tantia Tope. Her administration tried to restore the traditional order and win public support by respecting religious sentiments and ensuring justice.
She openly criticized the British policies that disrespected Indian customs and religions, particularly the use of animal fat in Enfield rifle cartridges, which hurt Hindu and Muslim sentiments alike.
Challenges and Defeat
Despite early successes, the tide of the revolt eventually turned against the rebels. The British, with superior military strength and resources, began recapturing lost territories. After fierce fighting and widespread bloodshed, the British retook Lucknow in March 1858. Begum Hazrat Mahal, however, did not surrender.
She retreated along with her supporters and continued guerrilla warfare for some time. Realizing that continued resistance might lead to more bloodshed and repression, she finally crossed into Nepal. Even in exile, she refused British offers of negotiation and continued to stand by her principles.
The Nepalese authorities, moved by her courage and stature, granted her asylum. She spent the remainder of her life in Kathmandu, where she died in 1879. Her grave remains there as a silent testimony to her indomitable spirit.
Legacy and Contributions
Begum Hazrat Mahal’s contribution to India’s freedom movement is both historical and symbolic. At a time when colonial powers believed that Indians, especially Indian women, would not dare to challenge them, she proved them wrong. Her leadership during the revolt showcased not just personal bravery but also political and strategic insight.
Her ability to lead and inspire a large section of society, mobilize resources, and fight against a global power placed her among the foremost freedom fighters of her time. She represented the voice of a population betrayed by colonial deceit and rose in defense of her people.
In independent India, she has been recognized as a national heroine. In 1984, the Government of India issued a commemorative postage stamp in her honor. The Begum Hazrat Mahal Park in Lucknow stands as a tribute to her legacy. A girls’ scholarship program—Begum Hazrat Mahal National Scholarship—was also launched to promote education among Muslim girls in India.
However, her story still does not receive the attention it deserves in mainstream historical narratives. While figures like Rani Lakshmibai are well-known across India, Begum Hazrat Mahal’s legacy has often remained limited to regional history books or special commemorations. Nevertheless, her story continues to inspire those who value courage, justice, and selfless leadership.
Qualities That Define Her Heroism
Several qualities define Begum Hazrat Mahal’s heroism:
- Courage: Despite the danger, she stepped up to lead the revolt, challenging British military forces.
- Leadership: She managed a functioning administration and commanded an army during wartime.
- Patriotism: Her love for Awadh and its people guided every decision she made.
- Resilience: Even after defeat, she refused to bow to British demands or accept their rule.
- Empowerment: She shattered the notion that women had no place in politics or warfare, inspiring future generations.
Conclusion
Begum Hazrat Mahal remains one of India’s earliest and bravest female freedom fighters. Her resistance during the Revolt of 1857 not only challenged British colonialism but also demonstrated the crucial role women played in India’s fight for independence. Though time and history have often overlooked her, her legacy is etched in the memory of every Indian who values freedom, justice, and equality.
As India continues to honor its freedom fighters, it is important to remember and celebrate figures like Begum Hazrat Mahal, whose life and struggle remind us that courage and patriotism transcend gender, class, and background. Her story is a powerful reminder of the strength of women and their unyielding spirit in the face of tyranny.
Who was Begum Hazrat Mahal?
Begum Hazrat Mahal was a queen of the princely state of Awadh (Oudh) in northern India. She was born in 1820 and became the wife of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. When the British annexed Awadh and exiled her husband, she took charge of the resistance in Lucknow during the Revolt of 1857.
She declared her son Birjis Qadr as Nawab and led the rebel forces against the British. She was known for her bravery, intelligence, and leadership. After the British regained control, she fled to Nepal, where she died in 1879.
Who was Birjis Qadr? (Class 8 Level)
Birjis Qadr was the son of Begum Hazrat Mahal and Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. In 1857, during the first war of Indian independence, his mother declared him the Nawab of Awadh. Though he was still a child, he became a symbolic ruler under his mother’s leadership. After the defeat of the rebellion, he went into exile in Nepal with his mother.
Who is a Begum?
A Begum is a title used for a Muslim woman of high social rank, especially a queen, princess, or noblewoman in South Asia. It is often used to refer to the wife of a Nawab or other royal figure.
Who was the Begum of Akbar?
The most well-known Begum of Emperor Akbar was Mariam-uz-Zamani, also known as Harka Bai or Jodha Bai. She was a Rajput princess and the mother of Jahangir. She held an important position in the Mughal court.
20 Lines on Begum Hazrat Mahal
- Begum Hazrat Mahal was born in 1820 in Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh.
- Her original name was Muhammadi Khanum.
- She was married to Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Awadh.
- She became a key figure in the 1857 revolt
- After her husband’s exile, she took charge of Awadh.
- She declared her son Birjis Qadr the Nawab.
- She led the rebellion in Lucknow against the British.
- She united different communities to fight the British.
- Her leadership was marked by strength and courage.
- She resisted British policies and their army.
- She inspired many people to join the struggle.
- Her forces achieved some victories during the revolt.
- Eventually, the British regained control of Awadh.
- She refused to surrender and chose exile instead.
- She took refuge in Nepal after the defeat.
- She spent the rest of her life in Nepal.
- Begum Hazrat Mahal died in 1879.
- Her grave is in Kathmandu, Nepal.
- She is remembered as a national hero.
- Her bravery is honored in Indian history.
10 Lines on Begum Hazrat Mahal in Urdu
1۔ بیگم حضرت محل 1820 میں پیدا ہوئیں۔
2۔ ان کا اصل نام محمدی خانم تھا۔
3۔ وہ نواب واجد علی شاہ کی بیوی تھیں۔
4۔ 1857 کی جنگ آزادی میں انہوں نے اہم کردار ادا کیا۔
5۔ انہوں نے اپنے بیٹے برجیس قدر کو نواب بنایا۔
6۔ انہوں نے انگریزوں کے خلاف بغاوت کی قیادت کی۔
7۔ انہوں نے لکھنؤ میں انگریزوں سے جنگ کی۔
8۔ وہ نیپال میں جلاوطن ہو گئیں۔
9۔ 1879 میں نیپال میں ان کا انتقال ہوا۔
10۔ وہ ایک بہادر اور محب وطن خاتون تھیں۔
5 Lines on Begum Hazrat Mahal
- Begum Hazrat Mahal was a brave leader in the Revolt of 1857.
- She ruled Awadh temporarily after her husband’s exile.
- She fought the British in Lucknow.
- She declared her son Birjis Qadr as Nawab.
- She died in exile in Nepal in 1879.
Speech on Begum Hazrat Mahal (Short)
Respected teachers and friends,
Today I want to speak about Begum Hazrat Mahal, a great freedom fighter of India. She showed immense courage during the Revolt of 1857. While the British tried to take control, she led the resistance in Lucknow.
She was a symbol of bravery and unity. Her leadership and sacrifice are an inspiration to every Indian. Let us remember her courage and contribution to our freedom struggle.
When was Begum Hazrat Mahal Born?
She was born in the year 1820.
Begum Hazrat Mahal Real Photo
There are no confirmed real photographs of Begum Hazrat Mahal, as photography was rare and limited during her time. Most images available are artistic impressions based on historical descriptions.
How Did Begum Hazrat Mahal Die?
Begum Hazrat Mahal died in exile in Nepal in the year 1879. She passed away due to natural causes and was buried near Jama Masjid in Kathmandu.
Begum Hazrat Mahal Full Dress
She wore traditional Mughal royal attire, including embroidered garments, rich fabrics, and jewelry. Her dress typically included long flowing robes, a dupatta or veil, and traditional footwear.
10 Lines on Begum Hazrat Mahal in Hindi
- बेगम हज़रत महल का जन्म 1820 में हुआ था।
- वह अवध के नवाब वाजिद अली शाह की पत्नी थीं।
- 1857 की क्रांति में उन्होंने बहादुरी से भाग लिया।
- उन्होंने अपने बेटे बिरजिस क़द्र को नवाब घोषित किया।
- उन्होंने लखनऊ में अंग्रेजों के खिलाफ युद्ध किया।
- वह एक कुशल नेता और योद्धा थीं।
- उन्होंने हिन्दू-मुस्लिम एकता को बढ़ावा दिया।
- अंग्रेजों की जीत के बाद वह नेपाल चली गईं।
- 1879 में उनका निधन नेपाल में हुआ।
- वह भारत की पहली महिला स्वतंत्रता सेनानियों में से थीं।
Freedom Fighters of India (Some Prominent Names)
- Mahatma Gandhi
- Subhas Chandra Bose
- Rani Lakshmibai
- Bhagat Singh
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
- Jawaharlal Nehru
- Lala Lajpat Rai
- Bal Gangadhar Tilak
- Mangal Pandey
- Begum Hazrat Mahal
What was the Role of Begum Hazrat Mahal in the Revolt of 1857?
Begum Hazrat Mahal played a significant role in the Revolt of 1857. After the British exiled her husband, she led the revolt in Lucknow. She organized and supported rebel forces and worked to restore Indian rule.
She promoted unity among different communities and became a symbol of resistance against British rule. Her leadership inspired others to join the struggle for freedom.
Wrap Up
Begum Hazrat Mahal’s life teaches us an important lesson — courage comes from within. She did not have a large army or great political power. But she had the will to fight for what was right. Even when the odds were against her, she did not give up.
After losing the battle, she had to take shelter in Nepal. Life in exile was not easy. She lived quietly until her death in 1879. But even in her last days, she never accepted defeat. She never returned to British India.
Today, her efforts are remembered with pride. In 1962, the Indian government issued a postage stamp in her honor. A park in Lucknow is also named after her. But her real tribute is in the hearts of people who admire her bravery.
Begum Hazrat Mahal may not be as famous as other freedom fighters, but her story is just as powerful. She stood up for her land when few dared to do so. She proved that women could lead battles and shape history.
Let us not forget her. Let us tell her story to every new generation. Because heroes like her keep the spirit of freedom alive.

Maroc Jameson is a dedicated educator with a strong commitment to enhancing learning experiences. He specializes in presenting information through concise “10 tips” formats, covering various topics such as “10 reasons to pursue a new skill” and “10 important benefits of reading.”