Meet Velu Nachiyar, India’s Forgotten Queen Who Fought The British Decades Before 1857 War

People are aware of the brave fight of Rani Lakshmi Bai against the British Raj to attain freedom. But many are not aware of another queen who also showed courage much before the 1857 war. Meet Velu Nachiyar, queen of the Sivaganga estate, who went against the East India Company in 1780.

This Independence Day, we bring you inspiring and brave stories of unknown women who fought against the British Raj and showed immense courage to fight for freedom.

Who was Velu Nachiyar?

Born in 1730, Velu Nachiyar was the princess of Ramanathapuram and also the only child of King Chellamuthu Vijayaragunatha Sethupathy and Queen Sakandhimuthathal. From a very young age, she trained in martial arts, horse riding, and archery and even excelled in many languages.

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Why did Velu Nachiyar fight against the British Raj?

She fought against the British Raj to avenge the death of her husband, Muthu Vaduganatha Periyavudaya Thevar, who was killed by British forces and the Nawab of Arcot in 1772.

Her husband was tragically killed by British troops during an invasion of their palace and territory, and took over the Sivaganga kingdom. Muthu Vaduganatha Periyavudaya Thevar was also a close advisor, mentor, and confidant to the prince. She gained the title of Veeramangai, which means brave woman, due to her courageous act. To save herself and her kingdom, she had to run away from Sivagangai and sought the help of Hyder Ali; Dindigul is a border state ruled by Hyder Ali. After staying in Virupaachi fortress and planning to take back her kingdom for eight years, she waged war against the British East India company.

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In 1780, she successfully reclaimed her kingdom and governed for 10 years. She passed away in 1796, and her daughter succeeded her.

The courage of Velu Nachiyar is an inspiration to the current generation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Thalapathy Vijay also paid their heartfelt tribute to Nachiyar on her birth anniversary.

#TVK Chief #ThalapathyVijay paid tribute to Veeramangai Velu Nachiyar on her birth anniversary. pic.twitter.com/mmkWo5fP7I

— George (@georgeviews) January 3, 2025

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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