Rani Chennamma: Warrior Against Oppression

An activist and human rights campaigner for over four decades, Shabnam Hashmi remains deeply involved in grassroots work, even as she leads organizations like ANHAD (Act Now for Harmony and Democracy) and spearheads resistance movements nationwide. Recently, on March 9, she participated in Kerala as part of a new initiative called ‘I too am Rani Chennamma,’ organized by ANHAD in collaboration with 71 other organizations.

The campaign aims to evoke the spirit of Rani Chennamma, the historic queen of Kittur who fought against the British colonial rule two centuries ago. By invoking her fearless legacy, Shabnam and her team seek to mobilize women across India to confront the rising tide of fascism in the country.

The campaign’s vision, as Shabnam articulates, is simple yet powerful: if Rani Chennamma could challenge the mighty British Empire, why can’t contemporary women unite to combat the fascist forces within India? The call to action is clear—to rise up against the oppressive regime and work towards its defeat in upcoming elections.

The campaign’s inception was marked by a collaborative effort involving 72 organizations in Kittur, particularly the Karnataka Rajya Mahila Dourjanya Virodhi Okkuta. Their collective endeavor underscores the urgency of women’s unity in the face of growing authoritarianism and communalism.

In Thiruvananthapuram, the campaign received further impetus with the release of a Malayalam version of the Kittur declaration, signaling a nationwide pledge by Indian women to reclaim their country. Women activists from diverse backgrounds joined forces, emphasizing the imperative of solidarity in confronting fascist forces and safeguarding democratic values.

The genesis of the campaign, Shabnam explains, emerged in response to the prevailing sense of despair following recent electoral outcomes. Collaborating with Annie Raja, a CPI leader, they conceived the idea of invoking Rani Chennamma’s memory as a symbol of resistance against tyranny.

Despite challenges, including financial constraints, Shabnam remains resolute in expanding the campaign’s reach. Plans are underway to take it to various cities across India, rallying women from different states to join the cause.

Importantly, Shabnam emphasizes that the campaign transcends gender—it’s about defending democracy, secularism, and the rights of marginalized communities. By invoking Rani Chennamma’s courage, the campaign seeks to instill fearlessness among citizens and confront the oppressive tactics of the ruling regime.

As conversations ensue, memories of Shabnam’s brother, Safdar Hashmi, surface, underscoring the enduring legacy of resistance against injustice—a legacy that continues to inspire and galvanize movements for change.

_{Repurposed article originally published in The News Minute}