Nak Kati Rani: The Fearless Hindu Queen Who Outsmarted the Mughals
HINDU NATION
After the death of King Mahipati, Queen Karnavati anointed seven-year-old Prithvipati as the king but continued to rule for some years herself.
Nak Kati Rani: The Fearless Hindu Queen Who Outsmarted the Mughals
Imagine a mighty queen, standing tall in the Himalayas, refusing to back down even when one of the strongest empires in history tried to take her land. That queen was Rani Karnavati, a warrior, a strategist, and a proud Hindu ruler of Garhwal.
She wasn’t just a queen—she was a protector, a leader, and an inspiration. Her courage teaches us that no matter who we are, we can stand strong, fight for what is right, and make history!
The Young Queen Who Took Charge
Long ago, in the beautiful mountains of Garhwal (now in India), Rani Karnavati lived with her family. She was married to King Mahipat Shah, but when he passed away in 1631, she had an important decision to make. She could step aside and let others rule, OR she could take charge and protect her kingdom for her young son, Prithvipati Shah.
And what did she do? She chose to lead! She proved that being a queen wasn’t about wearing a crown—it was about standing strong and making bold choices.
The Battle That Shocked the Mughals
Soon, Emperor Shah Jahan—the same emperor who built the Taj Mahal—sent his army to capture Garhwal. The Mughal forces were huge, powerful, and well-trained. But they didn’t realize one thing: Rani Karnavati was smarter than them!
Instead of fighting them in open fields, she used the mountains, forests, and rivers to trick the enemy and attack when they least expected it. Her soldiers hid in the hills, ambushed the Mughal army, and outsmarted them at every turn.
The Mughal army was confused, scared, and losing fast. In the end, Garhwal won, and the Mughals had to retreat. But Rani Karnavati wasn’t done yet—she wanted to send them a message they would NEVER forget.
The Boldest Move of All
She captured many Mughal soldiers and gave them a choice: surrender or face punishment. Many surrendered, but instead of harming them, she cut off their noses and sent them back to Shah Jahan!
That’s how she earned the legendary name Nak Kati Rani—“The Queen Who Cut Off Noses.”
A Hindu Queen Who Made History
Rani Karnavati was proud of her Hindu heritage and fought to keep Garhwal free from invaders. She didn’t wait for others to protect her kingdom—she took charge herself and made sure her people were safe.
Her story isn’t just about war—it’s about believing in yourself, being brave, being smart, and never giving up.
So if you ever feel small, remember Rani Karnavati—a queen who proved that strength isn’t about size, but about courage and intelligence.