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Bollywood actress Bhumi Pednekar has officially joined the cast of The Pride Of Bharath: Chhatrapati Shivaji, where she will portray the legendary warrior queen Belawadi Mallamma. The announcement has sparked curiosity among fans eager to know more about this historical figure. Known for her courage, leadership, and military skills, Mallamma played an important role in the history of Karnataka and is remembered as one of India's bravest queens.
Who Was Belawadi Mallamma?
Belawadi Mallamma was also known as Rani Mallamma. She was born in 1624 in Sode, Karnataka. Belawadi Mallamma was the daughter of King Madhulinga. Contrary to most other women in her era, Mallamma was given an education similar to that of her brothers in military skills.
She later married King Ishaprabhu, the ruler of Belawadi. After becoming the queen, Mallamma actively participated in the administration of her state and gained the admiration of her people through her leadership qualities.
Who was Belawadi Mallamma (Image: Instagram and Pinterest)
Mallamma Formed A Women's Army
One of Mallamma's greatest achievements was creating a dedicated women's military force in Belawadi. She personally trained women in combat and battle tactics, preparing them to defend their kingdom.
The army reportedly included more than 5,000 women, making it one of the earliest known organised women's military units in Indian history.
How Is Mallama Connected To Chhatrapati Shivaji?
Belawadi Mallamma's story became linked to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj during one of his military campaigns.
- There was a time when Shivaji Maharaj, having conquered several small principalities, was approaching Belvadi.
- King Ishprabhu was a great admirer of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. However, a clash broke out on route between Shivaji Maharaj's army and the farmers of Belvadi.
- Subsequently, the armies of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Ishprabhu faced each other in battle.
- A battle ensued, in which Mallamma's women's army also participated.
- Mallamma herself entered the battlefield with her four-month-old child in her arms; however, her army faced defeat.
- Ultimately, upon realising the error committed by his troops, Shivaji Maharaj apologised to Mallamma.
- He meted out severe punishment to his soldiers and restored the kingdom to Queen Mallamma.
- However, Tragically her husband—King Ishprabhu—lost his life in the battle.
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About Film The Pride Of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji
The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji is a historical movie directed and produced by Sandeep Singh and starring Rishab Shetty, Bhumi Pednekar, Arjun Rampal, Vivek Oberoi, and Shefali Shah. It was produced for Rs 500 crore, and the movie is slated to release in two installments, with the first one reportedly scheduled for January next year.