Rani

Rani is a term meaning queen in several South Asian languages, derived from Sanskrit rajñī, the feminine form of rājā (king). Historically it was used as a royal title for female rulers and consorts in many Indian kingdoms and princely states. In Urdu and Persian-influenced contexts it appears as a title of noble women as well. The word continues to be used in modern South Asia as a feminine given name and, less commonly, as a surname.

One of the most well-known associations with the title is Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, who ruled Jhansi in the mid-19th century and became a symbol of resistance during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. The title is linked with other historical queens and royal figures in South Asian history and literature.

As a given name, Rani is common in India and among the Indian diaspora. It is used across communities and can be found in various professions. Notable people named Rani include Rani Mukerji, a prominent Indian actress; Rani Rampal, a national and international field hockey player; and Rani Chatterjee, a Bhojpuri film actress. The name also appears in fiction and popular culture, reflecting its enduring presence in both historical and contemporary contexts.

Rani remains a versatile term, reflecting its historical roots as a royal title and its contemporary use as a personal name across diverse regions and languages.