Raibaghini: The Royal Tigress Poem by Namita Rani Panda

In 16th century Bengal in the house of a military commander a daughter was born
With face like the graceful moon and eyes like the rising sun
Lovingly she was called Bhavashankari
Her childhood fun were horseriding, swordsmanship and archery
When grown up she enjoyed the bridal blessing
With maharaja Rudranarayana, Bhurishrestha's powerful king
Being an ardent devotee of diety Chandi and preserver of Hindu sovereignty
She was blessed with Her strength and a sword that no man could defeat
She was a tower in the royal court for her military skills and intelligence
Alongside her hubby she participated in military campaigns and governance
Though widowed untimely and despised as a woman
She mobilised her army and demonstrated exceptional strategic acumen
No fear, no tear or regret could shadow her face
She defied sati system with steel resolve and dignified grace
She fought with a lion's heart and fire in vein
Tyrants trembled and fled in fear during her reign
The pathans attacked repeatedly with greed and might
But she stood steadfast alone to strongly resist
Her most notable military engagement was the Battle of Bashuri
Where she crushed the traitors and defeated the pathans by efficiently using guerrilla warfare tactics, war elephants, archers and cavalry
She valiantly vowed never to sheath her invincible sword
Till tyranny was trampled and peace to be restored
Closely associated she was with Baro Bhuyan to fight against the invaders
Bhurishrestha continued its sovereignty and remained a formidable power under the wings of this legendary leader
For her fierce resistance against the invaders and matchless military prowess
Emperor Akbar bestowed upon her the title Raibaghini, the Royal Tigress
Raibaghini temple at Udaynarayanpur still proclaims the story of her undying valour
She stands tall till today in Indian history as an unbeatable warrior
The befitting tribute to this brave soul will be to live on the path did she tread
And never to bow or feel low in life and never to be afraid