Manvati Arya was a courageous Indian freedom fighter who served as a Lieutenant in the Indian National Army (INA). She is remembered for her remarkable bravery and for breaking social barriers by joining the armed struggle for India’s independence at a time when very few women took part in military activities.
Manvati Arya was inspired by the revolutionary call of Subhas Chandra Bose, who believed that women must play an equal role in freeing the nation. She joined the Indian National Army, which was formed to fight British rule with the aim of achieving complete independence through armed resistance.
As a Lieutenant in the INA, Manvati Arya underwent rigorous military training and was entrusted with leadership responsibilities. She became a symbol of discipline, courage, and patriotism, motivating other women to join the freedom struggle. Her participation showed that women were not only capable of supporting roles but could also lead and fight alongside men for the nation.
Though the INA did not achieve military victory, its impact was historic. The courage of officers like Manvati Arya shook the foundations of British rule and inspired widespread nationalist sentiment across India. The INA trials after World War II further intensified the demand for independence.
Manvati Arya is remembered as a fearless woman soldier of India’s freedom movement, whose service in the INA stands as a proud example of women’s contribution to the armed struggle for independence. Her life continues to inspire courage, equality, and devotion to the nation.