Padmavati (also known as Rani Padmini) is a legendary queen of Chittorgarh, celebrated in Indian history and folklore for her beauty, courage, and sacrifice. Her story became famous through the 16th-century epic poem "Padmavat" written by Malik Muhammad Jayasi in 1540 CE.
Here’s her story in simple words 👇
👑 Who Was Rani Padmavati?
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She was the queen of Chittorgarh (Rajasthan).
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Husband: Raja Ratan Singh (Rawal Ratan Sen), the Rajput ruler of Chittor.
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Known for: Extraordinary beauty, intelligence, and honor.
⚔️ The Legend of Alauddin Khilji
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The Delhi Sultan Alauddin Khilji heard about Padmavati’s beauty and wanted to see her.
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He attacked Chittorgarh Fort to capture her.
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After a long battle, Alauddin managed to enter the fort.
According to the legend, before he could reach her, Rani Padmavati and hundreds of Rajput women performed Jauhar — a ritual of self-immolation — to protect their honor rather than fall into enemy hands.
🔥 Jauhar of Chittorgarh
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This event is remembered as the “First Jauhar of Chittorgarh.”
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It symbolizes courage, sacrifice, and pride in Rajput tradition.
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The act turned Padmavati into a symbol of dignity and strength.
📜 Historical Truth vs. Legend
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Historians believe that “Padmavat” is a semi-fictional poem, not fully historical.
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There’s no solid historical evidence that Rani Padmavati actually existed — she may be a symbolic character representing honor and resistance against invaders.
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Still, she holds a powerful place in Indian culture and folklore.
🎬 In Popular Culture
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The story was adapted into movies, most notably “Padmaavat” (2018) by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor, and Ranveer Singh.