**Rani Roopmati**

Also known as **Rani Rupavati**, is one of the most romantic and tragic figures in Indian medieval history. She was a poet, singer, and queen of the Malwa Sultanate in the 16th century, remembered not only for her beauty but also for her artistic spirit, devotion, and her poignant love story with Sultan Baz Bahadur. Her life continues to live on through folklore, poetry, and architectural narratives, particularly in the Mandu region of present-day Madhya Pradesh.Rani Roopmati was born in the early 16th century into a Rajput family, believed to be of humble origins. According to popular tradition, her father was a local chieftain or landlord in the Malwa region. From a young age, Roopmati displayed exceptional talent in music and poetry. She was particularly devoted to singing devotional songs dedicated to **Lord Krishna**, reflecting her deep spiritual inclination. Her melodious voice and refined artistry soon became renowned throughout the region.

Legend has it that Sultan **Baz Bahadur**, the last independent ruler of Malwa, first encountered Roopmati while hunting near the village where she lived. Captivated by her singing echoing through the hills, Baz Bahadur set out to find the woman with the divine voice. When he finally met her, he was struck not only by her beauty but also by her intelligence and artistic sensibility. Their meeting marked the beginning of a deep emotional and artistic bond that later became a legend.Roopmati initially resisted Baz Bahadur's advances, setting a condition before agreeing to marry him. She insisted that her residence should always have a view of the **Narmada River**, which she considered sacred. Respecting her devotion, Baz Bahadur built the **Roopmati Pavilion** on a hill in Mandu, overlooking the river. This architectural marvel still stands today as a symbol of their love and spiritual devotion. After her marriage, Rani Roopmati became the chief queen of Malwa. Unlike many royal consorts of the time, she was deeply involved in the cultural life of the kingdom. Under her influence, music, poetry, and art flourished, and Mandu became a vibrant center of artistic expression. Baz Bahadur himself was a patron of music, and their relationship was deeply intertwined with both love and art. Despite her opulent life, Roopmati remained spiritually inclined and devoted to Lord Krishna. She is said to have composed devotional songs, blending Hindu devotional traditions with the courtly culture of Malwa. Her presence as a Hindu queen in a Muslim-ruled sultanate symbolized a rare harmony between cultures in an era often marked by conflict.

However, their peaceful life did not last long. In 1561, Adam Khan, a Mughal general of Emperor Akbar, attacked Malwa. Baz Bahadur was defeated and forced to flee the kingdom. Mandu fell to the Mughals, and Rani Roopmati faced the threat of capture. Historical accounts and folklore differ slightly on what happened next, but most agree that Roopmati chose death over dishonor.According to legend, when Rani Roopmati learned that Adam Khan intended to capture her, she poisoned herself. Her act was considered the ultimate symbol of courage and self-respect, aligning with the Rajput ideal of maintaining honor at all costs. Her death brought a tragic end to a love story that had once filled Mandu with music and poetry.Rani Roopmati's legacy endures through the centuries. She has been immortalized in folk songs, ballads, and literary works throughout central India. Her story embodies themes of love, devotion, artistic excellence, and resistance against tyranny. The ruins of Roopmati's Pavilion and Baz Bahadur's palace still attract tourists today, standing as silent witnesses to a romance that transcended the boundaries of time. In history, Queen Roopmati is remembered not only as a queen, but also as an artist and a symbol of cultural harmony. Her life, even amidst political turmoil, exemplifies the power of art and love in shaping human relationships. Although her time on earth was short, her story is etched in India's cultural memory, inspiring generations with its beauty and tragic end.