A Tale of Royalty and Resilience: 'The Last Queen' by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

 Book Review by Reet Handay

Rating: ★★★★(4/5)

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, India, Historical, Indian Literature, Romance, Adult, Feminism, Asia, Adult Fiction

“I may be injured; I may even be wounded to the heart; but I’m not defeated yet.”

In the pages of Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's latest masterpiece, "The Last Queen," a long-forgotten queen comes to life. This is the tale of Rani Jindan Kaur, the Mother of the Khalsa, who defied tradition and etched her name into the annals of history as a fierce and indomitable leader. In a world where warrior queens are often overshadowed, her story is one of loyalty, betrayal, and unwavering determination.

The Forgotten Queen

Rani Jindan Kaur's story is not one that readily comes to mind when we think of Indian history. In the shadows of more prominent figures like Rani Lakshmibai and Razia Sultan, her legacy has been buried for far too long. Divakaruni's book seeks to rectify this historical oversight, offering a glimpse into the life of a queen who deserves to be remembered.

Rani Jindan Kaur: Mother of the Khalsa

Rani Jindan Kaur's significance extends beyond her role as queen. She was the mother of the Khalsa, the defender of her people, and a formidable warrior in her own right. Her life was a testament to the strength and resilience of women, especially in a time when they were often relegated to the background.

The Phases of a Queen's Life

"The Last Queen" is expertly divided into four sections, mirroring the four distinct phases of Rani Jindan Kaur's life – "Girl," "Bride," "Queen," and "Rebel." These phases serve as milestones, each one marking a transformation in her character and her journey through a tumultuous era.

Girl

The story begins with a young girl in a modest village. This phase introduces us to the roots of Jindan's indomitable spirit. Her early years are marked by a desire to be a provider rather than a burden, setting the stage for her future as a strong, independent woman.

Bride

As she enters the regal world, we witness the dynamics within the zenana, the women's sphere of the royal household. Despite the complexities of courtly life, the romance between Jindan and the Maharaja remains a beacon of hope and love in her life.

Queen

The transition into her life as a queen is anything but a fairytale. The narrative maintains its raw and unvarnished portrayal of Jindan, who must navigate the treacherous waters of court politics. Her role as Queen Regent, mother, and widow exposes her to betrayal and danger.

Rebel

The final phase sees Jindan yearning for her homeland, her independence, and her son. Her unwavering love for her country becomes a driving force as she strives to reunite with her son and continue the fight for freedom.

A Complex Portrait

Divakaruni's portrayal of Rani Jindan Kaur is far from a one-dimensional depiction. This biography does not shy away from highlighting her flaws and shortcomings. Jindan's character is painted with both light and shadows, making her a complex and, at times, unlikable figure. It's a refreshing departure from the tendency to romanticize historical figures.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Hidden Side

In "The Last Queen," we also get a glimpse of a less glorified side of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He is not merely the larger-than-life and just ruler we often encounter in history books. Divakaruni peels back the layers to reveal a man with a harem and a thirst for power, even at the cost of lives.

The Unveiling of History

The book does not offer a hasty start. The initial chapters, which delve into Jindan's early life and her romance with the Maharaja, may not immediately captivate all readers. However, the narrative picks up as we dive deeper into the complexities of court politics, the formation of alliances, and the shocking betrayals that are an unfortunate part of Jindan's journey.

The Overlooked Warrior Queens

One of the book's underlying themes is the historical sexism that has relegated warrior queens like Jindan to the footnotes of history. It prompts us to question how many other unsung heroines remain obscured by the pages of time, awaiting their stories to be told.

A Lesson in History

Beyond being a biography, "The Last Queen" serves as a valuable history lesson. It spans the tumultuous period leading up to the first war of independence and provides a critical examination of the British Empire's role in shaping the destiny of India.

The Legacy

As the narrative shifts toward her son, Dalip Singh, in the latter part of the book, some readers might feel a temporary detachment from Jindan. However, this shift ultimately underscores her enduring legacy as a mother and a patriot.

Conclusion and Reflection

In conclusion, "The Last Queen" by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is a riveting journey through the life of a forgotten queen who defied conventions and battled against all odds. While it may start slowly for some, the narrative gains momentum, offering a vivid portrayal of an extraordinary woman in a tumultuous time.

As you turn the pages of "The Last Queen," you'll discover a fierce and unforgettable queen whose legacy should never have been consigned to the past. Her story is a poignant reminder that history, especially when it comes to women, can be both empowering and heartbreaking. Don't let Rani Jindan Kaur remain forgotten - let her story inspire you to explore more untold tales of women who shaped the world.