Rani Jindan - An Embodiment of Resilience

The Last Queen by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Dear Readers,

What is your poignant monsoon memory from your mid 20s? For me, it is finding moving stories of resilience and losing myself into it. In my last book recommendation letter, I wrote about how the sun and I don’t go along well. And, how it led me to read. The Dalai Lama’s Cat.

Like the Sun, rain too, is one of my foes. 

Growing up under a leaking roof demanded indomitable resilience as a child. What seemed more challenging as I grew up was to live with the monsoon memories of the first 17 years of my life. Since the age of  21, every monsoon, I treat myself with a story of resilience. This year, I got back to re-reading Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s finest historical novel - The Last Queen. 

While the queen's tale isn't tied to monsoons, she embodies the resilience the rains always demanded while growing up.

“The Last Queen” tells the astonishing story of Rani Jindan Kaur, the last queen of Punjab, who defied all odds to become a powerful figure in Indian history. Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s captivating narrative not only brings Jindan Kaur’s courage, determination, and unwavering spirit to life but also immerses you in the political intrigue, personal sacrifices, and relentless challenges she faced. Rani Jindan’s fierce resistance against the British colonizers (“firangs”) and her unyielding fight to protect her son’s throne are truly inspiring. This book isn’t just a historical account; it’s an inspiring journey of a woman who stood resilient against all odds. By reading Jindan’s story, you’ll not only gain a deep appreciation for a pivotal period in history but also find a profound source of motivation and strength.

Why you should read it

To remind yourself - Your origins, no matter how modest, do not define your potential. For you are the architect of your own destiny.

Quotes I underlined while reading

• In the face of adversity, perseverance is our greatest weapon. It is the steady, relentless pursuit of our goals that lead us to victory.

• Courage is the not the absence of fear, but the will to act despite it. It is the fire that burns within us, pushing us to fight for what we believe.

My Thoughts

I believe a truly impactful book should do more than earn stars or inspire flowery reviews. It should catalyze change in my behavior, challenge preconceptions, and make me act. 

The Last Queen made me act. I backpacked and took the road to Amritsar for a solo trip. 

Currently, I am writing an essay on the experience that Amritsar offered. You should receive it as your next letter. 

Happy reading, and may you find stories that not just entertain you but inspire you to venture beyond the page.