Independence Day 2026 Special: Brave Story Of Rani Chennamma, Who Rebelled Against British Raj Before 1857

This Independence Day, we bring you brave stories of lesser-known women who went above and beyond to protect their kingdom and its people. Meet Rani Chennamma, also known as Kittur Chennamma, the Queen of the princely state of Kittur in present-day Karnataka, who went against the British Raj much before the 1857 war.

Who Was Rani Chennamma?

Born in 1778, Kittur Chennamma was born into a Jain family, and later her family descendants converted to Lingayatism. At a time when women were not seen as warriors, she trained in horse riding, sword fighting, and archery.

Things took a turn for her when she married Raja Mallasarja of the Desai family at the age of 15, and she became the Queen as we know her now. She reportedly looked up to Raja Mallasarja since the age of 9. The couple welcomed a son, but tragic striked in her life after her husband died in 1816, followed by her son's death in 1824.

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What happened in Kittur’s war against the British?

Left in grief and with a kingdom to protect, Chennamma did not discourage herself and decided to go against the British Raj. She adopted Shivalingappa in 1824 and announced him as the heir to the throne. The East India Company, who were not happy with Chennamma's decision, ordered Shivalingappa's expulsion and asked Kittur to accept British control.

Rani Chennamma had no option left but to fight against the British, and she stood bravely with her army. In the first war during October 1824, British forces lost heavily. However, during the second assault, the Queen fought with courage but was unfortunately captured and  imprisoned at Bailhongal Fort.

She died on February 21, 1829. Kittur's military leader, Sangolli Rayanna, continued the war but lost. He was later caught and hanged for wanting to announce Shivalingappa as the ruler of Kittur. Shivalingappa was also arrested by the British.

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How is Queen Chennamma remembered?

In the present time, Chennamma's legacy and victory are celebrated every year from October 22 to 24.