View source for Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi

{{short description|2019 Indian Hindi film}}
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2025}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2025}}
{{Infobox film
| name           = Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi
| image          = Manikarnika Poster.jpg
| alt            = 
| caption        = Theatrical release poster
| director       = [[Krish Jagarlamudi]]<br />[[Kangana Ranaut]]<ref>{{cite news | last1=Sundaram | first1=Lasyapriya | title=Kangana Ranaut credited as director along with Radha Krishna Jagarlamudi for 'Manikarnika' | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kangana-ranaut-credited-as-director-along-with-radha-krishna-jagarlamudi-for-manikarnika/articleshow/67143559.cms |access-date=30 January 2019 | work=The Times of India | date=18 December 2018 | language=en | archive-date=19 December 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181219052348/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kangana-ranaut-credited-as-director-along-with-radha-krishna-jagarlamudi-for-manikarnika/articleshow/67143559.cms |url-status=live }}</ref>
| producer       = [[Zee Studios]]<br />Kamal Jain <br />Abhishek Vyas
| screenplay     = [[V. Vijayendra Prasad]]
{{Infobox | decat = yes | child = yes
    | label1= Dialogues by
    | data1 = {{Ubl |Sunish Tom}}
}}
| story          = V. Vijayendra Prasad
| starring       = [[Kangana Ranaut]]<br />[[Jisshu Sengupta]]<br />[[Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub]]<br /> [[Danny Denzongpa]]<br />[[Ankita Lokhande]]
| narrator       = [[Amitabh Bachchan]]
| music          = '''Songs:'''<br />[[Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy]]<br />'''Score:'''<br />[[Sanchit Balhara and Ankit Balhara]]
| cinematography = Kiran Deohans<br />[[Gnana Shekar V. S.]]
| editing        = Rameshwar S. Bhagat<br />Suraj Jagtap
| studio         = [[Zee Studios]]<br />Kairos Kontent Studios
| distributor    = Zee Studios
| released       = {{Film date|df=yes|2019|01|25|ref1=<ref name=release>{{cite news |last1=Dubey |first1=Rachana |title=It's official! Kangana Ranaut's 'Manikarnika' to clash with Hrithik Roshan's 'Super 30' early next year |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/its-official-kangana-ranauts-manikarnika-to-clash-with-hrithik-roshans-super-30-early-next-year/articleshow/65071252.cms |access-date=21 July 2018 |work=The Times of India |date=21 July 2018 |language=en |archive-date=3 November 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181103082339/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/its-official-kangana-ranauts-manikarnika-to-clash-with-hrithik-roshans-super-30-early-next-year/articleshow/65071252.cms |url-status=live }}</ref>}}
| country        = India
| language       = Hindi
| runtime        = 150 minutes<ref name="BBFC">{{Cite web|url=http://www.bbfc.co.uk/releases/manikarnika-queen-jhansi-2019|title=Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi|website=www.bbfc.co.uk|language=en|access-date=20 January 2019|archive-date=26 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190126070153/http://www.bbfc.co.uk/releases/manikarnika-queen-jhansi-2019|url-status=dead}}</ref>
| budget         = {{INR}}99–125 crore<ref name="Manikarnia: The Queen of Jhansi">{{Cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=5572|title=Manikarnia: The Queen of Jhansi|website=Box Office India|access-date=8 February 2019|archive-date=10 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190710205829/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=5572|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Budget of Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi soars to Rs 125 cr due to production delays, reshoots |url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/budget-of-manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-soars-to-rs-125-cr-due-to-production-delays-reshoots-5111771.html |access-date=14 July 2023 |work=Firstpost |date=4 September 2018 |language=en}}</ref>
| gross          = {{Estimation}} {{INR}}132.95 crore<ref name="bo">{{cite web |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/manikarnika-queen-jhansi/box-office/|title=Manikarnika – The Queen of Jhansi Box Office Collection till Now |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |access-date=17 March 2018 |archive-date=6 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180206101324/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/manikarnika-queen-jhansi/box-office/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
}}

'''''Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi''''' is a 2019 Indian [[Hindi]]-language [[epic film|epic]] [[historical drama|historical drama film]]<ref name="BBFC" /> based on the life of [[Rani Laxmibai|Rani Lakshmi Bai]] of [[Jhansi]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/more-co-stars-for-kangana-ranaut-in-manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi/articleshow/66060230.cms|title=More co-stars for Kangana Ranaut in Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi|website=Mumbai Mirror|access-date=29 October 2018|archive-date=18 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191218190759/https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/more-co-stars-for-kangana-ranaut-in-manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi/articleshow/66060230.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> It is directed by [[Krish Jagarlamudi]] and [[Kangana Ranaut]] from a screenplay written by [[V. Vijayendra Prasad]]. Produced by [[Zee Studios]], the film stars Ranaut in the title role.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/news/bollywood-news/article/manikarnika-kangana-ranaut-to-share-directorial-credits-with-krish/307422|title=Manikarnika: Kangana Ranaut to share directorial credit With Krish?|website=timesnownews.com|date=31 October 2018|access-date=1 November 2018|archive-date=31 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181031150746/https://www.timesnownews.com/amp/entertainment/news/bollywood-news/article/manikarnika-kangana-ranaut-to-share-directorial-credits-with-krish/307422|url-status=live}}</ref>

''Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi'' was released on 3700 screens in 50 countries worldwide on 25 January 2019.<ref name="auto">{{cite tweet|user=taran_adarsh| author=Taran Adarsh|date=25 January 2019|number=1088685089720918016|title=#Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi screen count... India: 3000 Overseas: 700... releasing in over 50 countries Worldwide total: 3700 screens #Hindi #Tamil #Telugu}}</ref> The film performed moderately well internationally and in India in its theatrical run. The film holds the record for highest opening weekend collections for a female-driven film in India.<ref name=":4">{{Cite news|date=29 January 2019|title=Manikarnika mints highest weekend collections for woman-centric film|url=https://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/bollywood-news/article/Kangana-Ranauts-Manikarnika-creates-record-collects-highest-weekend-figures-for-woman-centric-film-406292|access-date=2 October 2021|website=[[Mid-Day]]|language=en|archive-date=2 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211002185811/https://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/bollywood-news/article/Kangana-Ranauts-Manikarnika-creates-record-collects-highest-weekend-figures-for-woman-centric-film-406292|url-status=live}}</ref> The film also became the highest Indian opener in Japan in January 2020.<ref name=":5">{{Cite news|date=17 January 2020|title=Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi becomes the highest Indian opener in Japan|url=https://m.filmfare.com/news/bollywood/manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-becomes-the-highest-indian-opener-in-japan-38611.amp|access-date=2 October 2021|website=[[Filmfare]]|language=en|archive-date=2 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211002185813/https://m.filmfare.com/news/bollywood/manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-becomes-the-highest-indian-opener-in-japan-38611.amp|url-status=live}}</ref> It is one of the highest grossing women-centric films in India.<ref name="bollywoodhungama.com">{{Cite web|date=17 May 2023|title=Female Centric Movies (India Box Office Lifetime)|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office-collections/female-centric-movies/|access-date=17 May 2023|website=[[Bollywood Hungama]]}}</ref><ref name=":6">{{Cite news|date=14 June 2019|title=It's a big slap on movie mafia's face: Kangana on Manikarnika's global selection|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/bollywood/140619/its-a-big-slap-on-movie-mafias-face-kangana-on-manikarnikas-glob.html|access-date=2 October 2021|website=[[Deccan Chronicle]]|language=en|archive-date=4 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210604014440/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/bollywood/140619/its-a-big-slap-on-movie-mafias-face-kangana-on-manikarnikas-glob.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

The film opened to positive critical response.<ref name="ManiReview">{{Cite web|url=https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/423370-positive-reviews-pour-in-as-kanganas-manikarnika-hits-theaters|title=Positive reviews pour in as Kangana's Manikarnika hits theaters|date=25 January 2019|website=www.thenews.com.pk|language=en|access-date=27 June 2019|archive-date=27 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190627225750/https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/423370-positive-reviews-pour-in-as-kanganas-manikarnika-hits-theaters|url-status=live}}</ref> It was selected for the [[Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival]].<ref>{{cite web |date=14 June 2019 |title=Gully Boy, Andhadhun, Manikarnika & Super Deluxe selected for Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/news/gully-boy-andhadhun-manikarnika-super-deluxe-selected-bucheon-international-fantastic-film-festival-455661 |url-status=live |access-date=28 March 2022 |website=[[Pinkvilla]] |archive-date=28 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220328083512/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/news/gully-boy-andhadhun-manikarnika-super-deluxe-selected-bucheon-international-fantastic-film-festival-455661 }}</ref> Ranaut's portrayal of Rani Lakshmi Bai garnered widespread critical acclaim winning her the [[National Film Award for Best Actress]] at the [[67th National Film Awards]].<ref>{{Cite news|date=22 March 2021|title=67th National Film Awards: Kangana Ranaut, Sushant Singh Rajput's Chhichhore win. See complete list of winners here|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/67th-national-film-awards-kangana-ranaut-sushant-singh-rajput-s-chhichhore-win-101616411773402-amp.html|access-date=23 March 2021|work=[[Hindustan Times]]|language=en|archive-date=22 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210322154854/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/67th-national-film-awards-kangana-ranaut-sushant-singh-rajput-s-chhichhore-win-101616411773402-amp.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="NationalAward" />

== Plot ==
In [[1828]], Manikarnika is born in the [[ghat]]s of [[Varanasi]]. She is raised by her father, Moropanth, and [[Peshwa]] [[Bajirao II]] in [[Bithoor]]. She is a favourite of the Peshwa and he has brought her up with a lot of love. One day Dixit Ji of [[Jhansi State|Jhansi]] spots her facing a ferocious tiger fearlessly. Impressed, he asks Peshwa for her hand in marriage with [[Maharaja]] of the [[Maratha Empire|Maratha-ruled]] [[princely state]] of Jhansi, [[Gangadhar Rao]]. Dixit Ji is aware that the [[British people|British]] are eyeing Jhansi and want to annexe the kingdom. He realises that her brave persona would play a crucial role in giving a tough fight to the British. The marriage takes place and as per the tradition, the king gives her a new name – ‘Laxmibai’ (or Lakshmi Bai). All these developments upset Gangadhar's brother Sadashiv Rao. He is friendly with the British and wants to usurp the throne.

Laxmibai, after a few years, gives birth to Damodar and she is unable to contain her happiness. Her joy, however, is short-lived as Sadashiv surreptitiously poisons Damodar. Gangadhar, at the same time, falls ill too. Knowing that his death is near, he and Laxmibai decide to adopt a son who will rule Jhansi in the future. Much to Sadashiv's dismay, his son is not adopted, and instead, ‘Anand Rao’, the son of a courtier, is named the heir. He was renamed as Laxmibai instinctively calls him [[Damodar Rao of Jhansi|Damodar Rao]]. Gangadhar passes away, and the British attempt to annexe the throne. However, Laxmibai surprises everyone as she decides to take over the reins. She proclaims herself as the queen of Jhansi and challenges the British openly. When the British force her to vacate the palace, she walks gracefully into the village and is welcomed and greeted by a massive parade of villagers led by [[Jhalkaribai]]. She continues to live among the civilians quietly strategising to reclaim the throne.

The rebellions from the [[Indian Rebellion of 1857]] reach Jhansi where the revolutionaries led by Sangram Singh kill General Gordon and his officers. They further attempt to kill their children and wives but their attempts are thwarted by Laxmibai. She plans to conquer the throne of Jhansi back while Sangram Singh and his men join the rebellion in [[Delhi]]. The [[East India Company]] requests the British government to appoint [[Hugh Rose, 1st Baron Strathnairn|Sir Hugh Rose]] to salvage the situation and remove Laxmibai from the throne permanently.

Knowing very well that she will soon be attacked again, Laxmibai begins training her own army, especially women, to fight. Laxmibai assembles an army of 20,000 troops, and Pathans join her later in 1858. During the siege of Jhansi, Laxmibai valiantly steps onto the battlefield to destroy the British cannons strategically placed in front of a temple. The strong fort walls keep Laxmibai and her army steady until Sadashiv Rao divulges secrets about the fort to the British, who finally break the siege and manage to storm the keep, resulting in the death of ‘Gaus-Baba’. Jhalkaribai, despite discovering that she is pregnant, acts as a decoy pretending to be the queen due to her striking resemblance to Laxmibai. She manages to distract the British army so that Laxmibai and Damodar can escape the castle safely. Jhalkaribai sacrifices herself in a major gunpowder explosion, killing numerous British officers along with her.

Laxmibai escapes to [[Kalpi]] to reunite with [[Tatya Tope]] and other allies. She captures the [[princely state]] of [[Gwalior State|Gwalior]] and motivates the troops to participate in the war. With a heavy heart, Laxmibai leaves Damodar and leads an attack on the British. Laxmibai bravely sets out to attack the huge British army even though she faces a certain defeat. Laxmibai gets shot by one of the British soldiers, and while taking her last breath she looks at Hugh Rose and immolates herself in a fire to avoid being captured and humiliated by the British. After Laxmibai's death, Jhansi is surrendered to the British Government in 1860 on behalf of Damodar Rao. Damodar Rao survives but lives a life suffering from prolonged illness and dire poverty, dying at the age of 58 in 1903. General Hugh Rose wrote about Rani Laxmibai's bravery and courage in his autobiography that "She was the most dangerous of all rebel leaders, best and bravest of all, the only man among mutineers".

== Cast ==
{{colbegin}}
* [[Kangana Ranaut]] as [[Rani Laxmibai|Rani Lakshmi Bai]] (Manikarnika "Manu")
* [[Jisshu Sengupta]] as [[Gangadhar Rao]], Laxmibai's husband
* [[Atul Kulkarni]] as [[Tatya Tope]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-atul-kulkarni-joins-the-kangana-ranaut-starrer-as-tantya-tope-4767742/ |title=Manikarnika The Queen Of Jhansi: Atul Kulkarni joins the Kangana Ranaut starring as Tatya Tope |publisher=[[The Indian Express]] }}{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
* [[Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub]] as Sadashiv Rao,<ref>{{citation|url=https://hindustantimes.com/bollywood/sonu-sood-on-leaving-kangana-ranaut-s-manikarnika-can-t-work-with-two-directors-on-a-film/story-OUdpyy9mpE9Ysobr3PH66J.html|title=Sonu Sood on leaving Kangana Ranaut's Manikarnika: Can't work with two directors on a film|website=Hindustan Times|date=4 September 2018|first=Soumya|last=Srivastava|access-date=22 December 2018|archive-date=29 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181029063816/https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/sonu-sood-on-leaving-kangana-ranaut-s-manikarnika-can-t-work-with-two-directors-on-a-film/story-OUdpyy9mpE9Ysobr3PH66J.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Lakshmibai's brother-in-law
* [[Danny Denzongpa]] as Ghulam Ghaus Khan
* Richard Keep as [[General Hugh Rose]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/richard-keep-the-man-who-takes-on-the-queen-in-manikarnika/articleshow/63790902.cms|title=Richard Keep: The man who takes on the Queen in Manikarnika|website=Mumbai Mirror|first=Avinash|last=Lohana|date=17 April 2018|access-date=22 December 2018|archive-date=18 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191218192305/https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/richard-keep-the-man-who-takes-on-the-queen-in-manikarnika/articleshow/63790902.cms|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[Suresh Oberoi]] as [[Bajirao II]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/revealed-suresh-oberoi-play-peshwa-bajirao-ii-kangna-ranaut-starrer-manikarnika/ |title=Suresh Oberoi to play Peshwa Bajirao II in Kangna Ranaut starrer Manikarnika |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=17 July 2017 |access-date=21 July 2018 |archive-date=24 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171224000718/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/revealed-suresh-oberoi-play-peshwa-bajirao-ii-kangna-ranaut-starrer-manikarnika/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
* Anil George as Pir Ali
* [[Edward Sonnenblick]] as Captain Gordon
* [[Vaibhav Tatwawaadi]] as Puran Singh
* [[Ankita Lokhande]] as [[Jhalkaribai|Jhalkari Bai]]<ref>{{cite web | url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/ankita-lokhande-kangana-ranaut-manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-4732773/ | title=Manikarnika The Queen of Jhansi: Ankita Lokhande joins Kangana Ranaut's army as Jhalkaribai | publisher=indianexpress.com | access-date=28 July 2017 | date=3 July 2017 | archive-date=8 August 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170808162241/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/ankita-lokhande-kangana-ranaut-manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-4732773/ | url-status=live }}</ref>
* [[Yash Tonk]] as [[Rao Tula Ram]]
* R. Bhakti Klein as [[Lord Canning]]
* Katelyn Rodrigues as Little Manikarnika
* [[Mishti]] as KashiBai<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/mishti-chakraborty-i-was-initially-hesitant-to-take-up-secondary-characters/articleshow/67119513.cms|title=Mishti Chakraborty: I was initially hesitant to take up secondary characters|website=Mumbai Mirror|date=17 December 2018|access-date=22 December 2018|archive-date=22 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181222173535/https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/mishti-chakraborty-i-was-initially-hesitant-to-take-up-secondary-characters/articleshow/67119513.cms|url-status=live}}</ref>
* Priya Gamre as Sundar
* [[Unnati Davara]] as Mundar
* [[Suparna Marwah]] as Rajamata
* [[Ravi Prakash]] as Scindia King of Gwalior
* Ravi Pandey as Bakshish Ali
* Rajiv Kachroo as Gul Mohamad
* Nihar Pandya as Rao Saheb Peshwa
* [[Taher Shabbir]] as Sangram Singh<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/taher-shabbir-to-play-sangram-singh-in-kangana-ranauts-manikarnika/articleshow/65833915.cms|title=Taher Shabbir to play Sangram Singh in Kangana Ranaut's Manikarnika|work=Mumbai Mirror|access-date=17 September 2018|archive-date=17 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180917020735/https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/taher-shabbir-to-play-sangram-singh-in-kangana-ranauts-manikarnika/articleshow/65833915.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> (as Tahir Mithaiwala)
* [[Kulbhushan Kharbanda]] as Dixit Ji
* [[Manish Wadhwa]] as Moropant
* [[Nalneesh Neel]] as Teer Singh
* [[Vikram Kochhar]]
{{colend}}

== Production ==
The outdoor locations of the film were [[Jaipur]], [[Jodhpur]], [[Alsisar]] ([[Jhunjhunu]]) & [[Bikaner]] in Rajasthan and Narmada Ghat, Ahilya Fort in Madhya Pradesh. Besides these, the film was shot at studios in Hyderabad and Mumbai.

Sukant Panigrahy, Sriram Iyengar, and Sujeet Sawant were hired as the production designers of the film. Sujeet and Sriram have also done production designing for ''[[Bajirao Mastani]]'' (2015).<ref name="mtr">{{Cite news|url=https://desimartini.com/news/martini-shots/videos-songs-trailers-breakdowns/manikarnika-trailer-kangana-epic-warrior-queen-sure-give-you-goosebumps-article100040.htm|title=Trailer: Kangana As The Epic Warrior Queen Is Sure To Give You Goosebumps|last=Sengupta|first=Avipsha|website=desimartini|date=18 December 2018|access-date=21 December 2018|archive-date=18 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181218163526/https://www.desimartini.com/news/martini-shots/videos-songs-trailers-breakdowns/manikarnika-trailer-kangana-epic-warrior-queen-sure-give-you-goosebumps-article100040.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Principal photography was completed in October 2018.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://m.mid-day.com/articles/its-a-wrap-for-kangana-ranauts-manikarnika/19887154|title=It's a wrap for Kangana Ranaut's Manikarnika|date=14 October 2018|work=Mid Day|access-date=14 October 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=6 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220906093338/https://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/bollywood-news/article/its-a-wrap-for-kangana-ranaut-s-manikarnika-19887154|url-status=live}}</ref> By that time, only 10 days of filming work remained. Krish intended to do that minimal patchwork and then move on to direct ''[[N.T.R: Kathanayakudu|N. T. R.]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.masala.com/what-gave-her-the-right-to-tamper-with-what-i-did-manikarnika-co-director-krish-lashes-out-at-275627|title='What Gave Her The Right to Tamper with What I Created?' Manikarnika co-director Krish Lashes out at Kangana Ranaut Again|date=28 January 2019|website=www.masala.com|access-date=4 February 2019|archive-date=28 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190128153622/https://www.masala.com/what-gave-her-the-right-to-tamper-with-what-i-did-manikarnika-co-director-krish-lashes-out-at-275627|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.spotboye.com/bollywood/Bollywood-interviews/manikarnika-director-krrish-finally-speaks-out-on-what-went-wrong-between-kangana-ranaut-and-him/5c4b2b59890c815b7dce7f0f|title=Manikarnika Director Krish Finally Speaks Out On WHAT WENT WRONG Between Kangana Ranaut And Him|date=30 January 2019|website=www.spotboye.com|access-date=31 January 2019|archive-date=6 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190406034514/https://www.spotboye.com/bollywood/Bollywood-interviews/manikarnika-director-krrish-finally-speaks-out-on-what-went-wrong-between-kangana-ranaut-and-him/5c4b2b59890c815b7dce7f0f|url-status=live}}</ref> However, [[Sonu Sood]] was replaced by Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.mid-day.com/articles/mohammed-zeeshan-ayyub-to-replace-sonu-sood-in-manikarnika/19759170|title=Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub to replace Sonu Sood in Manikarnika!|work=Mid-day Mumbai|date=1 January 2019|access-date=18 January 2019|archive-date=4 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180904165557/https://www.mid-day.com/articles/mohammed-zeeshan-ayyub-to-replace-sonu-sood-in-manikarnika/19759170|url-status=live}}</ref> forcing the team to reshoot all of Sood's scenes. As Krish was busy directing ''N. T. R.'', Ranaut took over, making her directorial debut. Both Krish and Ranaut received joint directorial credit.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/kangana-ranaut-on-manikarnika-turning-director-and-why-shes-done-playing-the-conventional-heroine-5758291.html|title=Kangana Ranaut on Manikarnika, turning director, and why she's done playing the conventional heroine|date=19 December 2018|website=Firstpost|access-date=25 December 2018|archive-date=1 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190101134758/https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/kangana-ranaut-on-manikarnika-turning-director-and-why-shes-done-playing-the-conventional-heroine-5758291.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://m.sakshi.com/news/movies/krish-interview-about-ntr-biopic-movie-1151878|title=కథే కథకుడిని ఎన్నుకుంటుంది|date=13 January 2019|website=Sakshi|access-date=18 January 2019|archive-date=6 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220906093338/https://m.sakshi.com/news/movies/krish-interview-about-ntr-biopic-movie-1151878|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mid-day.com/articles/mohammed-zeeshan-ayyub-to-replace-sonu-sood-in-manikarnika/19759170|title=Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub to replace Sonu Sood in Manikarnika|date=1 September 2018|website=mid-day|access-date=18 January 2019|archive-date=4 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180904165557/https://www.mid-day.com/articles/mohammed-zeeshan-ayyub-to-replace-sonu-sood-in-manikarnika/19759170|url-status=live}}</ref>

== Soundtrack ==
{{Infobox album
| name         = Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi
| type         = Soundtrack
| artist       = [[Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy]]
| cover        = 
| alt          = 
| released     = 9 January 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jiosaavn.com/album/manikarnika---the-queen-of-jhansi/1kp327tWFBw_|title=Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack|date=9 January 2019|publisher=[[Saavn]]|access-date=9 January 2019|archive-date=15 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190815111707/https://www.jiosaavn.com/album/manikarnika---the-queen-of-jhansi/1kp327tWFBw_|url-status=live}}</ref>
| recorded     = 2018
| venue        = 
| studio       = 
| genre        = [[Feature Film Soundtrack]]
| length       = 31:37
| label        = [[Zee Music Company]]
| language     = Hindi
| producer     = 
| misc         = {{External media
| audio1 = {{YouTube|MKEZyMQEpVc|Audio Jukebox(Hindi)}}
}}
{{Extra chronology
 | artist     = [[Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy]]
 | type       = Soundtrack
 | prev_title = [[Soorma (film)|Soorma]]
 | prev_year = 2018
 | title = Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi
 | year = 2019
 | next_title = [[Mere Pyare Prime Minister]]
 | next_year = 2019
 }}
}}

The film's soundtrack is composed by [[Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy]] and lyrics written by [[Prasoon Joshi]]. The film's score was composed by [[Sanchit Balhara]] and Ankit Balhara.

'''Hindi Track listing'''
{{Track listing
| extra_column = Singer(s)
| total_length = 31:37
| title1 = Bharat
| extra1 = [[Shankar Mahadevan]]
| length1 = 4:00
| title2 = Vijayi Bhava
| extra2 = Shankar Mahadevan
| length2 = 4:23
| title3 = Bolo Kab Pratikar Karoge
| extra3 = [[Sukhwinder Singh]]
| length3 = 3:16
| title4 = Rajaji
| extra4 = Pratibha Singh Baghel, Ravi Mishra
| length4 = 5:17
| title5 = [[Shiva Tandava Stotram]] (Sanskrit hymn to [[Shiva]])
| extra5 = Shankar Mahadevan
| length5 = 2:45
| title6 = Tak Taki
| extra6 = Pratibha Singh Baghel
| length6 = 4:17
| title7 = Dankila
| extra7 = [[Prajakta Shukre]], Shrinidhi Ghatate, [[Siddharth Mahadevan]], Arunaja, Chotu Singh Rawna, Hemant Brijwasi
| length7 = 3:44
| title8 = Bharat
| note8 = ft [[Prasoon Joshi]]
| extra8 = Shankar Mahadevan, Prasoon Joshi
| length8 = 3:56
| heading = Track listing
}}

'''Tamil Track listing'''
{{Track listing
| extra_column = Singer(s)
| heading = Tamil Track listing
| all_lyrics = [[Madhan Karky]]
| total_length = 27:47
| title1 = Jayam Unadhae
| extra1 = [[Shankar Mahadevan]]
| length1 = 4:24
| title2 = Sivam Sivam
| extra2 = Renjith Unni, Jithin Raj, Shenbagaraj, Narayanan, Vignesh Narayan
| length2 = 2:46
| title3 = Bhaaradham
| extra3 = Shankar Mahadevan, [[Hamsika Iyer]]
| length3 = 3:52
| title4 = Koamaanae
| extra4 = [[Mahalakshmi Iyer]], [[Shriram Iyer]]
| length4 = 5:18
| title5 = Kannaa Vaa
| extra5 = Hamsika Iyer
| length5 = 4:18
| title6 = Nanjukku
| extra6 = Mahalakshmi Iyer, Siddharth Mahadevan and Hamsika Iyer
| length6 = 3:45
| title7 = Sollaay
| extra7 = Shriram Iyer
| length7 = 3:17
}}

'''Telugu Track listing'''
{{Track listing
| extra_column = Singer(s)
| headline =
| all_lyrics = Chaitanya Prasad
| total_length = 27:42
| extra1 = Hamsika Iyer
| length1 = 4:26
| title1 = Raa Kannaa
| extra2 = [[Shankar Mahadevan]], Hamsika Iyer
| length2 = 4:00
| title2 = Bharath Vardhillaali
| extra3 = Shankar Mahadevan
| length3 = 4:24
| title3 = Vijayibhava
| extra4 = Shriram Iyer
| length4 = 3:17
| title4 = Cheppara Nee Prathikaaram Epudo
| extra5 = Mahalaksmi Iyer & Shriram Iyer
| length5 = 4:10
| title5 = Naa Raja
| extra6 = Shankar Mahadevan
| length6 = 2:45
| title6 = Shiv Tandav
| extra7 = Mahalakshmi Iyer, Hamsika Iyer & Siddharth Mahadevan
| length7 = 3:45
| title7 = Rae...Raelaa Rae...
}}

== Marketing ==
The first poster was released on 15 August 2018.<ref name=indianexpress>{{cite news|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/manikarnika-kangana-ranaut-first-poster-5307423/|title=Manikarnika's first poster sees a fiery Kangana Ranaut charging at the enemy|access-date=2 October 2018|work=[[The Indian Express]]|archive-date=27 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180827221909/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/manikarnika-kangana-ranaut-first-poster-5307423/|url-status=live}}</ref> Theatrical posters of the film were released in 2 languages for simultaneous release of the film in [[Tamil language|Tamil]] and [[Telugu language|Telugu]] with Hindi version on 4 January 2019.<ref>{{cite tweet|user=taran_adarsh| author=Taran Adarsh|date=4 January 2019|number=1081086553697411072|title=#Manikarnika – The Queen Of Jhansi will also be released in #Tamil and #Telugu on 25 Jan 2019... Posters: https://t.co/YwwQgSoAv2}}</ref>

Its official music launch took place on 9 January. The video song from ''Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi'' titled "Vijayi Bhava" was made available for public viewing on the same day.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0GoDq5gINPo|title=Vijai Bhava-Manikarnika – Kangana Ranaut – Shanker Ehsaan Loy – Prasoon Joshi|date=9 January 2019 |publisher=Zee Music Company on YouTube|access-date=17 January 2019|archive-date=12 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200612034858/https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0GoDq5gINPo|url-status=live}}</ref> Short video teasers of dialogues and prominent scenes of the film were posted on the [[Facebook]] page of [[Zee Studios]] for viewers.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/1515899105385201/posts/1928435380798236/|title=Her motive was to serve one and all, that is what defined the future of India! Zee Studios|website=[[Facebook]]|date=17 January 2019|access-date=17 January 2019|archive-date=6 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220906093338/https://www.facebook.com/login/?next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2F1515899105385201%2Fposts%2F1928435380798236%2F|url-status=live}}</ref>

== Release ==
The film is certified U/A (Parental Guidance for children below the age of 12 years) by [[Central Board of Film Certification|CBFC]] of India and the film was released on 25 January 2019. Its runtime is 148 minutes.<ref>{{cite tweet|user=taran_adarsh| author=Taran Adarsh|date=20 January 2019|number=1086852283617275904|title=#Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi certified UA by Indian censors #CBFC on 16 Jan 2019. Approved run time: 148 minutes [2 hours, 28 minutes]... #India}}</ref> ''Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi'' was released on 3700 screens in 50 countries worldwide in [[Hindi]], [[Tamil language|Tamil]] and [[Telugu language|Telugu]] on 25 January 2019. While the original was in [[Hindi]], the [[Tamil language|Tamil]] and the [[Telugu language|Telugu]] versions were dubbed from the Hindi version.<ref name="auto"/>

A special screening of the film was organised by Zee Entertainment for [[Ram Nath Kovind]], the [[President of India]], at [[Rashtrapati Bhavan]] Cultural Centre on 18 January in the presence of Kangana Ranaut and her team before the release of the film on 25 January 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/kangana-ranauts-manikarnika-to-be-screened-for-president-kovind-1979333|title=Kangana Ranaut's Manikarnika To Be Screened For President Kovind|website=NDTV|date=17 January 2019|access-date=17 January 2019|archive-date=18 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190118101238/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/kangana-ranauts-manikarnika-to-be-screened-for-president-kovind-1979333|url-status=live}}</ref> After watching the film, the President felicitated the cast and crew of the film.<ref>{{cite tweet|user=taran_adarsh| author=Taran Adarsh|date=18 January 2019|number=1086292636086849537|title=Shri Ram Nath Kovind, President of India, watches #Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi... The President felicitated the team after the screening. https://t.co/E3zN0gHPRC}}</ref>

The film was selected for the [[Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival]].<ref name="DC">{{cite news |title=It's a big slap on movie mafia's face: Kangana on Manikarnika's global selection |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/bollywood/140619/its-a-big-slap-on-movie-mafias-face-kangana-on-manikarnikas-glob.html |access-date=16 June 2019 |work=[[Deccan Chronicle]] |date=14 June 2019 |archive-date=15 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190615143736/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/bollywood/140619/its-a-big-slap-on-movie-mafias-face-kangana-on-manikarnikas-glob.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The film was also screened at the Kashi Indian International Film Festival,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mahotsav |first1=Amrit |url=https://amritmahotsav.nic.in/whats-new-detail.htm?64 |title=Three-day 'Kashi Film Festival' with cultural events and movie screening held in Varanasi |work=Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Ministry of Culture, Government of India |publisher=[[Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav]] |date=29 December 2021 |access-date=30 December 2021 |url-status=live |archive-date=30 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230142239/https://amritmahotsav.nic.in/whats-new-detail.htm?64 }}</ref> Itanagar International Film Festival,<ref>{{cite news |last=Gani |first=Absul |date=20 February 2019 |title=First international film festival at Itanagar |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/first-international-film-festival-at-itanagar/cid/1685062 |url-status=live |access-date=28 March 2022 |work=[[The Telegraph (India)]] |archive-date=28 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220328090032/https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/first-international-film-festival-at-itanagar/cid/1685062 }}</ref> and at the [[List of diplomatic missions of India|Indian embassy, Lebanon]] under [[75th Year of Independence Day of India|Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav]] event.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/delhi-confidential/delhi-confidential-celebrating-india-independence-75-7687697/ |title=Delhi confidential: Indian embassy in Lebanon screened Kangana Ranaut-starrer 'Manikarnika' to celebrate India@75 |publisher=[[The Indian Express]] |date=24 December 2021 |access-date=30 December 2021 |url-status=live |archive-date=30 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230142730/https://indianexpress.com/article/delhi-confidential/delhi-confidential-celebrating-india-independence-75-7687697/ }}</ref>

== Critical reception ==
''Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi'' received mixed reviews from critics, who criticised the film's length; however, Ranaut's performance received widespread critical acclaim.<ref name="ManiReview"/> {{Rotten Tomatoes prose|score=45|count=11|average=5.2|consensus=|ref=yes |access-date=7 June 2025}}
[[File:KanganaRanaut 67thNationalFilmAwards1.jpg|thumb|300x300px| Ranaut's performance garnered widespread critical acclaim winning her the [[National Film Award for Best Actress]] at the [[67th National Film Awards]].]]

=== India ===
[[Anupama Chopra]] of ''[[Film Companion]]'' gave the film a rating of 3/5 and stated, "''Manikarnika'' reveals Ranaut as an artist with boundless ambition". Calling Ranaut's performance in the film "fiery" she wrote, "Ranaut is on fire as the iconic Rani Lakshmi Bai. Her spine is erect, her eyes are unblinking and she seems propelled by some other-worldly power. She’s riding horses, wielding swords, leaping on elephants, and making it all look plausible. When she looks into the camera and insists on dying for the country, you want to follow her into battle".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URGRnoDZpJ8|title=Anupama Chopra's Movie Review of Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi &#124; Kangana Ranaut|date=24 January 2019 |via=YouTube|access-date=25 January 2019|archive-date=20 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201120195627/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URGRnoDZpJ8|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Rajeev Masand]] of ''[[CNN-IBN]]'' gave the film a rating of 3/5 and wrote, "This is a deliberately simplistic film; an old-fashioned patriotic saga told in the broadest of strokes, and with full nationalist fervor". Praising Ranaut's performance he further wrote, "Ranaut’s extraordinary performance is the film’s biggest strength. She is unwavering in her portrayal of Rani Lakshmibai; There’s a hard-to-miss intensity in her eyes, and tenacity in her voice. She commands the screen with a fiery, arresting presence, never letting your attention wander away from her".<ref>{{Cite news|date=26 January 2019|title=Manikarnika Movie Review: Kangana Ranaut's Terrific Performance is the Film's Biggest Strength|url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/manikarnika-movie-review-kangana-ranaut-extraordinary-performance-is-the-film-biggest-strength-2014415.html|first=Rajeev|last=Masand|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[CNN-IBN]]|archive-date=28 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190128135557/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/manikarnika-movie-review-kangana-ranaut-extraordinary-performance-is-the-film-biggest-strength-2014415.html}}</ref> [[Namrata Joshi]] of ''[[The Hindu]]'' wrote, "Ranaut doesn’t just share the director’s credit; she overshadows all of the cast, including veterans like Danny Denzongpa and consummate performers like Atul Kulkarni and Mohammad Zeeshan Ayub. It’s evident that Ranaut has put her all into the film and she's present in practically every frame".<ref>{{Cite news|date=25 January 2019|title=Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi' review: playing patriot games|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-review-playing-patriot-games/article26088821.ece|first=Namrata|last=Joshi|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[The Hindu]]|archive-date=18 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211018180813/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-review-playing-patriot-games/article26088821.ece}}</ref> [[Raja Sen]] of ''[[Hindustan Times]]'' gave the film a rating of 3/5 and wrote, "Ranaut’s film is an arrow against cinema’s [[patriarchy]], a broadside against the boys". He called Ranaut a "one-woman army" and praised her performance by writing, "Ranaut is glorious and she makes you believe it. She wears a dazzling smile like a cloak of confidence, and slices down enemy soldiers with a fury. We know what this actress is capable of, and she gives even the weaker written parts of this film her all".<ref>{{Cite news|date=28 January 2019|title=Manikarnika movie review: Kangana Ranaut is a one-woman army|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/manikarnika-movie-review-kangana-ranaut-is-awesome-the-film-better-than-sanjay-leela-bhansali-s-carnivals/story-gOMYHprOhI3f7OeDbfW62O.html|first=Raja|last=Sen|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[Hindustan Times]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230102933/https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/manikarnika-movie-review-kangana-ranaut-is-awesome-the-film-better-than-sanjay-leela-bhansali-s-carnivals/story-gOMYHprOhI3f7OeDbfW62O.html}}</ref>

Shibaji Roychoudhury of ''[[Times Now]]'' gave the film a rating of 4/5 and wrote, "''Manikarnika'' has many moments of genius and enough fire to keep you glued to the screen. Ranaut's performance as the iconic Rani of Jhansi is worth every penny spent". Praising Ranaut's performance he further wrote, "Ranaut’s portrayal of one of the most iconic women in Indian history is certainly praise-worthy. Her nuanced grasp of the rebel warrior-queen will certainly win you over".<ref>{{Cite news|date=25 January 2019|title=Manikarnika movie review: Kangana Ranaut's war epic has many moments of genius|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/reviews/movies/article/manikarnika-movie-review-kangana-ranaut-s-war-epic-has-many-moments-of-genius/353032|first=Shibaji|last=Roychoudhury|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[Times Now]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230103443/https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/reviews/movies/article/manikarnika-movie-review-kangana-ranaut-s-war-epic-has-many-moments-of-genius/353032}}</ref> Meena Iyer of ''[[Daily News and Analysis|DNA]]'' gave the film a rating of 4/5 and wrote, "Ranaut, who wears two hats that of the protagonist and the co-director displays a certain maturity on both counts. As a queen, she displays steely resolve, managing to infuse life into her Laxmibai; As a director, she shares credit with Krish and has assuredly contributed to this big-ticket outing".<ref>{{Cite news|date=24 January 2019|title=Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi' Review - Kangana Ranaut infuses life into the braveheart queen|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/movie-reviews/report-manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-review-kangana-ranaut-infuses-life-into-the-braveheart-queen-2711790|first=Meena|last=Iyer|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[Daily News and Analysis]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230102151/https://www.dnaindia.com/movie-reviews/report-manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-review-kangana-ranaut-infuses-life-into-the-braveheart-queen-2711790}}</ref> A. Ganesh Nadar of ''[[Rediff.com|Rediff]]'' gave the film a rating of 4/5 and wrote, "The film is as grand as the [[Baahubali (franchise)|''Baahubali'']] films. Unsurprisingly, as both films have been written by the same writer, K. V. Vijayendra Prasad".<ref>{{Cite news|date=25 January 2019|title=Manikarnika Review: Thank you, Kangana|url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/review/manikarnika-review-thank-you-kangana/20190125.htm|first=A. Ganesh|last=Nadar|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[Rediff.com]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230102152/https://m.rediff.com/movies/review/manikarnika-review-thank-you-kangana/20190125.htm}}</ref> ''[[Bollywood Hungama]]'' gave the film a rating of 3.5/5 and wrote, "''Manikarnika'' is a well-made historical with the right scale, emotional quotient and battle sequences as its highpoint. Also, Kangana Ranaut's performance is the icing on the cake". Praising Ranaut's performance they further wrote, "Ranaut delivers a terrific performance and owns this challenging character. The Rani of Jhansi has a lot of significance and the actress ensures she does complete justice to it. In the action scenes, she is great, but watch out for her performances in the emotional sequences as well".<ref>{{Cite news|date=24 January 2019|title=Manikarnika – The Queen Of Jhansi Movie|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/manikarnika-queen-jhansi/critic-review/manikarnika-queen-jhansi-movie-review/|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[Bollywood Hungama]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230104525/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/manikarnika-queen-jhansi/critic-review/manikarnika-queen-jhansi-movie-review/}}</ref> ''[[The Economic Times]]'' gave the film a rating of 3.5/5 and wrote, "''Manikarnika'' is a larger-than-life period drama doesn’t need a man to pack a punch". Praising Ranaut's performance they wrote, "Ranaut’s stellar screen presence brings ''Manikarnika'' to life. It highlights her prowess as a prolific actor and adds one more feather to her cap. Her transformation from a young girl to a warrior soaked in blood is effortless".<ref>{{Cite news|date=28 January 2019|title=Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi' review: Kangana Ranaut's stellar performance brings Rani Lakshmibai to life|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-review-kangana-ranauts-stellar-performance-brings-rani-lakshmibai-to-life/articleshow/67722982.cms|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[The Economic Times]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230140644/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-review-kangana-ranauts-stellar-performance-brings-rani-lakshmibai-to-life/articleshow/67722982.cms}}</ref>

Ronak Kotecha of ''[[Times of India]]'' gave the film a rating of 3.5/5 and wrote, "''Manikarnika'' is a well-made film that highlights Ranaut's prowess as an actor. For a first-time filmmaker, she undoubtedly shows spark and potential as a storyteller. Short of an epic, this larger-than-life war drama has enough valour and spirit to keep you engaged in these pages of history." Praising Ranaut's performance, he further wrote, "Ranaut captivates your attention in every frame and grows from strength to strength as the film progresses. This is clearly one of her best performances and the role itself lends ample scope for her to perform; Ranaut effortlessly brings ''Manikarnika'' to life".<ref>{{Cite news|date=2 February 2019|title=Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi Movie Review: Patriotic and entertaining war drama, fuelled by Kangana Ranaut's performance|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi/amp_movie_review/67674985.cms|first=Ronak|last=Kotecha|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[Times of India]]|archive-date=24 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240424060200/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi/amp_movie_review/67674985.cms}}</ref> Devesh Sharma of ''[[Filmfare]]'' gave the film a rating of 3.5/5 and wrote, "''Manikarnika'' manages to reintroduce one of the most awe-inspiring figures from India's past. A legend gets reborn, at least on screen, and maybe that's the only reality palatable to us right now". Praising Ranaut's performance he further wrote, "Ranaut looks to the manor born playing Laxmibai. She channels the spirit of the warrior queen and is her fierce best in war scenes and also manages to give us the glimpse of the icon's soft side".<ref>{{Cite news|date=24 January 2019|title=Movie Review: Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi|url=https://www.filmfare.com/reviews/bollywood-movies/movie-review-manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-32235.html|first=Devesh|last=Sharma|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[Filmfare]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230103932/https://www.filmfare.com/reviews/bollywood-movies/movie-review-manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-32235.html}}</ref> Umesh Punwani of ''Koimoi'' gave the film a rating of 3.5/5 and wrote, "''Manikarnika'' is a visual form of our history chapters but a very intriguing and beautiful looking one. No one could have done this better than Ranaut and she is brutally bloody beautiful".<ref>{{Cite news|date=27 January 2019|title=Manikarnika – The Queen Of Jhansi Movie Review: Kangana Ranaut – Brutally Bloody Beautiful!|url=https://www.koimoi.com/reviews/manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-movie-review-kangana-ranaut-brutally-bloody-beautiful/|first=Umesh|last=Punwani|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=Koimoi|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230102152/https://www.koimoi.com/reviews/manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-movie-review-kangana-ranaut-brutally-bloody-beautiful/}}</ref>

Lakshana N. Palat of ''[[India Today]]'' gave the film a rating of 3/5 and called Ranaut's performance in the film "excellent". She wrote, "If you're a Ranaut fan, ''Manikarnika'' is the film for you. If you remember your history lessons, take ''Manikarnika'' with a generous pinch of salt".<ref>{{Cite news|date=25 January 2019|title=Manikarnika Movie Review: Kangana Ranaut excellent as Queen of Jhansi, film not so much|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/reviews/story/manikarnika-movie-review-kangana-ranaut-excellent-as-queen-of-jhansi-film-not-so-much-1439057-2019-01-25|first=Lakshana|last=Palat|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[India Today]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230102151/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/reviews/story/manikarnika-movie-review-kangana-ranaut-excellent-as-queen-of-jhansi-film-not-so-much-1439057-2019-01-25}}</ref> Hannah Rachel Abraham of ''[[The Week (India)|The Week]]'' gave the film a rating of 3/5 and wrote, "Ranaut certainly manages to don the role of our ''antar aatma ki aawaj'', and has certainly made a praiseworthy effort in her directorial debut". Praising Ranaut's performance she further wrote, "Ranaut is undoubtedly magnificent as the titular character. She brings a righteous anger and otherworldly fury to the character. Ranaut plays The Rani of Jhansi with such conviction that one does not even pay attention to the weak script that makes her force-feed the audience with long expositions drowning is patriotic fervour".<ref>{{Cite news|date=26 January 2019|title=Manikarnika Review: Dazzling Kangana Dominates In Otherwise Average Film|url=https://www.theweek.in/review/movies/2019/01/26/manikarnika-review-kangana-dominates.html|first=Hannah Rachel|last=Abraham|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[The Week (India)|The Week]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230104214/https://www.theweek.in/review/movies/2019/01/26/manikarnika-review-kangana-dominates.html}}</ref> Mayank Shekhar of ''[[Mid-Day]]'' gave the film a rating of 3/5 and wrote, "''Manikarnika'' is a big-budget, wholly star-driven, action-packed, period picture. Except the star is female, which is rare enough". Praising Ranaut further he wrote, "I can't imagine anybody as naturally earning that sobriquet as Ranaut. Dainty but fierce, Ranaut plays Rani Lakshmibai with the ferocity that suits her character best. She leads the charge not just as an actor, but also as director".<ref>{{Cite news|date=25 January 2019|title=Manikarnika Movie Review - Money where the mouth is|url=https://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/bollywood-news/article/manikarnika--the-queen-of-jhansi-movie-review---money-where-the-mouth-is-405952|first=Mayank|last=Shekhar|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[Mid-Day]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230102203/https://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/bollywood-news/article/manikarnika--the-queen-of-jhansi-movie-review---money-where-the-mouth-is-405952}}</ref> [[Shubhra Gupta]] of ''[[The Indian Express]]'' gave the film a rating of 2.5/5 and wrote, "What keeps us with the film is Rani Ranaut, who in her best moments, owns her part, the single-track narrative, and the screen".<ref>{{Cite news|date=26 January 2019|title=Manikarnika movie review: Kangana Ranaut owns the period drama|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/manikarnika-movie-review-rating-5554689/|first=Shubhra|last=Gupta|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[The Indian Express]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230102151/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/manikarnika-movie-review-rating-5554689/}}</ref>

=== Overseas ===
Anita Ayer of the ''[[Khaleej Times]]'' gave the film a rating of 3.5/5 and stated, "''Manikarnika'' belongs to Ranaut". Praising Ranaut's performance he further wrote, "Ranaut does justice to the role by bringing to life the legendary war hero with her grit and fierce act. She also makes her debut as a co-director in this film, and you can feel her touch in the way Lakshmibai's personal life is portrayed".<ref>{{Cite news|date=25 January 2019|title='Manikarnika' review: Kangana Ranaut emerges true hero in this war drama|url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/citytimes/bollywood/manikarnika-review-kangana-ranaut-emerges-true-hero-in-this-war-drama|first=Anita|last=Ayer|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[Khaleej Times]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230104601/https://www.khaleejtimes.com/citytimes/bollywood/manikarnika-review-kangana-ranaut-emerges-true-hero-in-this-war-drama}}</ref> Rahul Aijaz of ''[[The Express Tribune]]'' gave the film a rating of 3.5/5 and wrote, "''Manikarnika'' delivers on most fronts and proves an engaging affair from beginning to end. Ranaut appears in top form and even proves she can hang as a director". Praising Ranaut's performance he further wrote, "''Manikarnika'' is a one-woman-show. Ranaut, in an avatar never seen before, displays a determination, fury and softness in her composure, body language, movement and expressions to bring the iconic rebel to life".<ref>{{Cite news|date=26 January 2019|title=Manikarnika: A one-woman show|url=https://tribune.com.pk/story/1897366/4|first=Rahul|last=Aijaz|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[The Express Tribune]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230110133/https://tribune.com.pk/story/1897366/4}}</ref> Shilpa Jamkhandikar of ''[[Reuters]]'' wrote, "Ranaut does her best. She is awkward and stilted as the demure bride but comes into her own as the warrior queen. She adds a swagger to her stride and a steely determination to her demeanour that are hard not to cheer for. She is the only thing that make this film worth a watch".<ref>{{Cite news|date=25 January 2019|title=Movie Review - Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/movie-review-bollywood-manikarnika/movie-review-manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-idUSKCN1PJ0I5|first=Shilpa|last=Jamkhandikar|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[Reuters]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230102152/https://www.reuters.com/article/movie-review-bollywood-manikarnika/movie-review-manikarnika-the-queen-of-jhansi-idUSKCN1PJ0I5}}</ref> Ankur Pathak of ''[[HuffPost]]'' wrote, "Ranaut plays the titular role of Rani Laxmibai with conviction and brings a sense of ferocious energy to her character. The actress occupies nearly every frame of the movie and one cannot fault her performance; Ranaut is in fine form here. Her dialogue delivery has a sense of command and ownership which makes you root for her".<ref>{{Cite news|date=24 January 2019|title='Manikarnika' Review: It's Kangana Ranaut's Show All The Way|url=https://www.huffpost.com/archive/in/entry/manikarnika-review-its-kangana-ranauts-show-all-the-way_in_5c49ece1e4b0287e5b88d92b/amp|first=Ankur|last=Pathak|url-status=live|access-date=29 December 2021|website=[[HuffPost]]|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230104743/https://www.huffpost.com/archive/in/entry/manikarnika-review-its-kangana-ranauts-show-all-the-way_in_5c49ece1e4b0287e5b88d92b/amp}}</ref>

== Box office ==
The digital distribution rights for the film were acquired by [[Amazon Prime Video]] for {{INR|link=yes}}40 [[crore]] and the satellite rights were purchased at {{INR|link=yes}}25 [[crore]]. The distribution rights for theatre screening were purchased at {{INR|link=yes}}65 [[crore]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://hindi.filmibeat.com/news/manikarnika-is-already-in-profits-read-the-details-079664.html|title=कंगना रनौत की मणिकर्णिका- रिलीज के साथ ही कमाया बंपर प्रॉफिट|first=Salman|last=Khan|date=29 January 2019|website=hindi.filmibeat.com|access-date=30 January 2019|archive-date=4 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190204083015/https://hindi.filmibeat.com/news/manikarnika-is-already-in-profits-read-the-details-079664.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The film opened with  {{INR|link=yes}}7.75 [[crore]] in domestic markets. On its second day, which coincided with [[Republic Day (India)|Republic Day holiday]], the film collected {{INR|link=yes}}18.10 [[crore]]. On its third day, the film remained steady and collected {{INR}}15.50 crore, taking its opening weekend domestic collection to {{INR}}41.35 crore, making it the highest weekend collection for a female-led film. Its domestic nett collection in the opening week was {{INR}}61.15 crore.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1091197628711346176|title=#Manikarnika scores in Week 1... Had excellent weekend [#RepublicDay holiday] and healthy trending on weekdays... Weekend 2 crucial... Fri 8.75 cr, Sat 18.10 cr, Sun 15.70 cr, Mon 5.10 cr, Tue 4.75 cr, Wed 4.50 cr, Thu 4.25 cr. Total: ₹ 61.15 cr. India biz. #Hindi #Tamil #Telugu|first=taran|last=adarsh|date=31 January 2019|access-date=1 February 2019|archive-date=2 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190202103231/https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1091197628711346176|url-status=live}}</ref> The domestic gross of the film as per ''[[Bollywood Hungama]]'' is {{INR}}108.84 crore and in the overseas market film grossed {{INR}}24.11 crore. The worldwide gross for the film is {{INRConvert|{{#expr:108.84+24.11}}|c}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office-collections/worldwide/2019/|title=Bollywood Top Grossers Worldwide|date=4 February 2019|website=Bollywood Hungama|access-date=17 March 2019|archive-date=18 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191118064625/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office-collections/worldwide/2019/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/manikarnika-queen-jhansi/box-office/|title=Manikarnika – The Queen Of Jhansi Film Collection: Check out Manikarnika – The Queen Of Jhansi Box office collection till now.|access-date=17 March 2019|website=Bollywood Hungama|date=25 January 2019 |archive-date=27 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190127203140/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/manikarnika-queen-jhansi/box-office/|url-status=live}}</ref> The film initially performed well internationally and in India in its theatrical run; however, it was declared an average performer by [[Box Office India]].<ref name="Manikarnia: The Queen of Jhansi">{{Cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=5572|title=Manikarnia: The Queen of Jhansi|website=Box Office India|access-date=8 February 2019|archive-date=10 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190710205829/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=5572|url-status=live}}</ref> The holds the record for the highest opening weekend collections for a female-driven film in India.<ref name=":4" /> The film also became the highest Indian opener in Japan in January 2020.<ref name=":5" /> It ended its run, emerging as one of the highest-grossing women-centric films in India.<ref name="bollywoodhungama.com"/>

== Awards and nominations ==
{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders sortable"
|-
!scope="col"| Year
!scope="col"| Award
!scope="col"| Category
!scope="col"| Recipient(s)
!scope="col"| Result
|-
! rowspan="2"| 2019
|[[26th Screen Awards]]
|[[Screen Award for Best Actress|Best Actress]]
|[[Kangana Ranaut]]
|{{nominated}}
|-
|[[Zee Cine Awards]]
|[[Zee Cine Award for Best Actor – Female|Best Actress]]
|[[Kangana Ranaut]]
|{{nominated}}
|-
!rowspan="2"|2020
|rowspan="2"|[[65th Filmfare Awards]]
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actress|Best Actress]]
||[[Kangana Ranaut]]
|{{nominated}}
|-
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Costume Design|Best Costume Design]]
|[[Neeta Lulla]]
|{{nominated}}
|-
!2021
|[[67th National Film Awards]]<ref name="NationalAward">{{Cite news|last=|first=|date=22 March 2021|title=67th National Film Awards: Complete list of winners|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/67th-national-film-awards-complete-list-updating/article34131921.ece|url-status=live|access-date=23 March 2021|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=22 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210322165021/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/67th-national-film-awards-complete-list-updating/article34131921.ece}}</ref>
|[[National Film Award for Best Actress|Best Actress]]
|[[Kangana Ranaut]]
|{{Won}}
Also for ''[[Panga (film)|Panga]]''
|}

== Sequel ==
Kangana Ranaut and producer Kamal Jain have teamed up to work on a sequel titled '''''Manikarnika Returns: The Legend of Didda'''''. It would be based on the Kashmiri female ruler [[Didda]]. Sources close to the development revealed that the new film will be bigger and mounted on an international scale, adding that the team intends to make a world-class franchise of real-life women heroes.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kangana-ranaut-to-star-in-manikarnika-returns-the-legend-of-didda-read-details/articleshow/80265514.cms|title=Kangana Ranaut to star in 'Manikarnika Returns: The Legend Of Didda'|website=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=14 January 2021|archive-date=14 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114102242/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kangana-ranaut-to-star-in-manikarnika-returns-the-legend-of-didda-read-details/articleshow/80265514.cms|url-status=live}}</ref>

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
* {{IMDb title|6903440|Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi}}
* [https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/manikarnika-queen-jhansi/ Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi] on [[Bollywood Hungama]]
* {{Rotten Tomatoes|manikarnika_the_queen_of_jhansi}}

{{Portal bar|India|Film|Bollywood}}
{{Krish (director)}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Manikarnika-The Queen of Jhansi}}
[[Category:2019 films]]
[[Category:2019 Hindi-language films]]
[[Category:2019 Indian films]]
[[Category:Indian epic films]]
[[Category:Indian historical drama films]]
[[Category:Indian biographical drama films]]
[[Category:History of India on film]]
[[Category:Historical epic films]]
[[Category:Indian swashbuckler films]]
[[Category:Films about the Indian Rebellion of 1857]]
[[Category:Films set in the Indian independence movement]]
[[Category:Films set in the 1850s]]
[[Category:Films set in Uttar Pradesh]]
[[Category:Films set in the British Raj]]
[[Category:Films about women in India]]
[[Category:Films directed by Krish Jagarlamudi]]
[[Category:Films scored by Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy]]
[[Category:Cultural depictions of Rani Laxmibai]]
[[Category:Films set in the Maratha Empire]]
[[Category:2019 biographical drama films]]
[[Category:2019 directorial debut films]]
[[Category:Cultural depictions of Indian monarchs]]
[[Category:2019 drama films]]