Phoolan Devi

Indian bandit queen turned politician who symbolized resistance against caste oppression.

Phoolan Devi (1963–2001), known as the 'Bandit Queen,' transformed from a victim of caste-based violence into a symbol of rebellion in India. Born into the marginalized Mallah caste, she endured kidnappings and sexual assault before joining a dacoit gang. Her 1981 Behmai massacre—retaliation against upper-caste tormentors—made her a folk hero among Dalits.

After surrendering in 1983, she served 11 years in prison without trial. Post-release, she entered politics, winning a parliamentary seat in 1996. As an MP, she advocated for women's rights and lower-caste empowerment, challenging systemic inequalities. Her 2001 assassination underscored the dangers faced by those opposing India’s entrenched hierarchies.

Devi’s life, depicted in Shekhar Kapur’s Bandit Queen (1994), remains controversial yet emblematic of grassroots resistance. For deeper insights, visit phoolandevi.org.