Arise Bharat

Rani Rashmoni, born Rashmoni Das on 28 September 1793 in Kona village, near the Nadia-North 24 Parganas border of Bengal, was a visionary Sanaatani, philanthropist, and social reformer whose contributions to Hinduism and social welfare have left a lasting legacy. A devout protector of Hinduism, Rani Rashmoni dedicated her life to preserving Sanatan Dharma, supporting sacred Hindu sites, and advocating for the rights of Hindus during British colonial rule.

Founder of Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Rani Rashmoni’s most significant contribution to Hinduism was the Dakshineswar Kali Temple in Kolkata, which she founded in 1847. Her dream to establish a grand temple dedicated to Goddess Kali was realized when she purchased a 30,000-acre plot of land in Dakshineswar, then a village on the banks of the Hooghly River. Completed in 1855, the temple became a symbol of her devotion and dedication to Sanatan Dharma.

The temple remains one of the most revered religious sites in Bengal, attracting millions of devotees every year. In 1855, Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa was appointed as the temple’s priest by Rani Rashmoni, and under his spiritual guidance, the temple gained immense significance in the religious and philosophical landscape of Bengal. This landmark act cemented Rani Rashmoni’s role not only as a temple builder but also as a patron of Hindu spirituality.

Defender of Hindu Religious Rights

Rani Rashmoni was an ardent defender of Hindu religious practices, and she worked tirelessly to ensure that Hinduism was respected in the face of British colonial rule. In one of her most famous acts of defiance, she resisted the British imposition of taxes on the Ganga River, which was vital to religious practices, including the livelihoods of fishermen and pilgrims. By blocking British trade routes on the river, she forced the British authorities to lift these taxes, safeguarding the community’s access to the river.

Another of her courageous acts was her defiance against the British efforts to restrict Durga Puja processions, which they claimed disturbed the peace. Despite these colonial restrictions, Rani Rashmoni stood firm in her commitment to Hindu customs and ensured that Durga Puja celebrations continued uninterrupted. Eventually, the British withdrew the penalty imposed on her and the people of Bengal.

A Devout Protector of Hindu Culture

Rani Rashmoni’s contributions to Hinduism extended beyond Kolkata. She played a pivotal role in preserving and restoring sacred Hindu sites across India. One of her significant acts of devotion was funding the restoration of Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. This effort ensured that one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for Hindus was maintained for future generations.

Additionally, she funded the restoration of the Shankaracharya Temple in Kashmir, ensuring that this key pilgrimage site for Hindus remained intact and accessible. These acts reflect her unwavering commitment to the preservation of sacred Hindu landmarks and her deep respect for Sanatan Dharma.

Social Reformer and Philanthropist

Beyond her religious and cultural contributions, Rani Rashmoni was also a passionate social reformer. After inheriting her husband’s zamindari (landed estate) following his death in 1836, she demonstrated extraordinary leadership in managing the estate and improving the lives of her tenants. Known for her charitable works, Rani Rashmoni funded the construction of several important ghats in Kolkata, such as Babughat, Ahiritola Ghat, and Nimtala Ghat, which provided access to the Ganga for the daily bathers and pilgrims.

Her support for education was equally significant. Rani Rashmoni donated generously to institutions such as the Imperial Library (now the National Library of India) and Hindu College (now Presidency University), supporting intellectual growth and learning in Bengal during the Bengal Renaissance. These efforts highlighted her commitment to the welfare of her people and her belief in the power of education.

Freeing 2,000 Hindus

Rani Rashmoni’s courage extended to acts of social justice as well. One of the most remarkable chapters in her life occurred when she freed 2,000 Hindus who had been enslaved by the soldiers of the Nawab in Dhaka (present-day Bangladesh). This bold act of liberation demonstrated her deep commitment to human rights, equality, and the protection of oppressed communities.

Infrastructure Development for Pilgrims

Rani Rashmoni also worked to improve infrastructure to ease the movement of pilgrims and provide better access to sacred sites. She funded the construction of a road from the Subarnarekha River to Puri, enabling easier access for pilgrims to one of India’s most important pilgrimage destinations. This effort was part of her larger vision to enhance the accessibility of religious sites and to improve the living conditions of the people in Bengal.

Clashes with the British and Social Reforms

Rani Rashmoni was not only a defender of Hindu practices but also a reformer in the social sphere. She supported the cause of widow remarriage and aligned herself with Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar’s campaign for social reforms, including the promotion of widow remarriage. She even submitted a draft bill against polygamy to the British East India Company, advocating for progressive changes in society.

Her influence extended beyond religious and social causes; Rani Rashmoni’s land management and infrastructure projects also helped transform the Bengal landscape, creating opportunities for marginalized communities and improving access to resources. For example, she helped turn marshy, uninhabitable land in the Sunderbans into prosperous fisheries, benefiting local families and supporting their livelihoods.

Her Legacy: The Lokmata Rani Rashmoni Mission

Rani Rashmoni’s legacy continued after her death in 1861 through the work of her sons-in-law and the celebration of Durga Puja in their households. Her contributions to Hinduism, social welfare, and the preservation of cultural landmarks cemented her position as one of the greatest figures in Bengal’s history. Today, the Lokmata Rani Rashmoni Mission in Nimpith, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, continues her work in social welfare and religious preservation.

Conclusion

Rani Rashmoni’s life and legacy as a Sanaatani, philanthropist, and social reformer are an integral part of Bengal’s history. Through her visionary work in building the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, supporting the restoration of sacred Hindu sites like Mathura and Kashmir, and her defiance against colonial oppression, she became a symbol of Hindu resilience and a champion of Hindu rights.

Her philanthropic efforts, including the construction of ghats, support for education, and social reforms for the oppressed, demonstrate her profound impact on the lives of people in Bengal and beyond. As a devout follower of Sanatan Dharma, she worked tirelessly to ensure the preservation and protection of Hindu values, culture, and religious practices. Rani Rashmoni’s contributions to Hinduism and society remain a beacon of inspiration, and her legacy continues to influence generations today.