In the early eighteenth-century, Baiza Bai fought the increasing reach of the East India Company – not with her sword, but with her balance sheets. The Rani-turned-banker was a key figure in the state of Gwalior, who survived the worst of foes.
Baiza Bai was the widow of Daulat Rao Scindia and ruler of Gwalior State from his death in 1827. She hailed from the Scindia line of the Maratha Empire, the ruler of which was said to be “the only prince in Hindostan who can be called independent of British authority.”
After the third Anglo-Maratha Wars of 1817-1818, the Maratha Empire lost its largest territories and conceded many powers to the British. But some rulers, such as Baiza Bai, continued to hold some powerful cards.
Baiza Bai was skilled. She could ride a horse, fire a gun and wield a sword or a spear with ease. Indeed, she had fought with Daulat Rao at the Battle of Assaye against the British.
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