By Denis Giles
On 1 January 1926, in the serene village of Malacca (Altameak), popularly known as Champin, a girl child was born. She was christened ‘Fathima’ (symbolizing purity, devotion and virtue), and was destined to become a living symbol of continuity, compassion, and humble leadership of the Nancowry Group of Islands.
Born into an extraordinary lineage, she grew in the presence and care of her mother Rani Lachmi (The Second Queen of Nancowry) and her grandmother Queen Islon (The First Queen). Since her birth, the Fathima inherited not only a crown of power, but a sacred legacy of service, unity, and devotion to the people of Nicobars.
Rani Fathima represents the third generation of Queens in a rare royal tradition rooted not in dominance, but in community welfare, harmony, moral authority, and cultural dignity. Unlike any royals, Rani Fathima scaled up to be much more than a Queen. With her compassion and dedication towards her people, she became the Queen Mother for her people.
Defining her life by grace, sacrifice and devotion, the Queen Mother united the Nancowry group through love, respect and deep understanding. With quiet wisdom and gentle strength, she gave her people their identity, confidence and direction.
A sovereign of boundless generosity, the Queen Mother Rani Fathima always placed the welfare of her people and the nation above personal interest. With a selfless heart, she willingly offered her land and resources for the common good. Her generosity given without hesitation or expectation remains an enduring example for generations to follow.
Rani Fathima’s legacy continues through her children. Her elder daughter, Rani Aysha, her youngest son, Prince Rashid and grandson Prince Rayhaan carry forward the Rani family’s timeless values of service, unity, responsibility and humility. Her presence lives on not only in the land she loves, but in the hearts of her people.
The people of Nicobar have already started the centenary birthday celebrations of the Queen Mother Rani Fathima. The celebration that commenced from the eve of 31st Dec. 2025 will continue in the entire Nicobar District upto 7th of January 2026.
On her 100th Birthday, Andaman Chronicle wishes the Queen Mother Rani Fathima good health and pray that her leadership, vision and ideology keep guiding the people of Nicobars and inspires the world at large.