short essay on kittur rani chennamma in english

Rani Kittur Chennamma: India’s Valiant Freedom Fighter | #IndianWomenInHistory

Kittur Chennamma, the Queen of Kittur, was one of the  first Indian rulers to lead an armed rebellion against the British East India Company in 1824, against the implementation of the Doctrine of Lapse . She was born in 1778, 56 years before the 1857 revolt led by Rani Lakshmi Bai, thus becoming the one of the first women freedom fighters to have fought against the British rule in India.

Her rebellion against the British ended with her imprisonment, however, she became a celebrated freedom fighter in the state of Karnataka and a symbol of the independence movement in India. Since 1824, ‘ Kittur Utsava ’ has been organised every year in the month of October to celebrate the heroic rebellion of Rani Kittur Chennamma. 

Also Read:  Accamma Cherian: The Jhansi Rani Of Travancore | #IndianWomenInHistory

[Image Courtesy: Journeys Across Karnataka]

She was married to Mallasarja Desai, the king of Kittur, at the age of 15 and became the queen of Kittur. She had one son from the marriage, who after the death of her husband in 1816, also died in 1824. As the queen of Kittur, Kittur Chennamma adopted Shivalingappa after the death of her only son with the aim of making him the heir to the throne of Kittur.

Defiance of British Rule

The British East India Company did not take lightly to Chennamma’s act and ordered Shivalingappa’s exile from the kingdom. This was done under the pretext of the Doctrine of Lapse, according to which adoptive children of native rulers were not allowed to be named their successor and if the native rulers did not have children of their own, their kingdom would become a territory of the British Empire. The Doctrine of Lapse was officially codified between 1848 to 1856 by Lord Dalhousie.

Kittur Chennamma, however, defied the British order to expel Shivalingappa from the throne. She sent a letter to the Governor of Bombay to plead the cause of Kittur but Lord Elphinstone turned down Chennamma’s request. The state of Kittur came under the administration of Dharwad collectorate in charge of Mr. Thackeray, and Mr. Chaplin was the commissioner. Both men did not recognise Chennamma as the regent and Shivalingappa as the ruler and apprised Rani Chennamma to surrender her kingdom, but she again defied the British order. This led to the breakout of a war.

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War against the British

The British attempted to pillage Kittur’s treasures and jewels, which valued around 15 lakh rupees, but were unsuccessful. They had attacked Kittur with a force of 20,000 men and 400 guns, which came mainly from the third troop of the Madras Native Horse Artillery.

To avoid further destruction and war, Rani Chennamma negotiated with the British Commissioner Mr. Chaplin and the Governor of Bombay, under whose regime Kittur fell. She released the hostages owing to the British promise that the war would no longer be continued. However, the promise turned out to be only an act of deception. Humiliated by their first defeat at the hands of a small Indian ruler, Mr. Chaplin treacherously returned with much larger forces from Mysore and Sholapur to attack Kittur once again.

[Image Courtesy: Journeys Across Karnataka]

Ultimately, Kittur Chennamma and her forces were outnumbered by the large strength of the British forces. Rani Chennamma was defeated in her last battle and captured by the British, who imprisoned her at the Bailhongal Fort for life.

Her loyal lieutenant Sangoli Rayanna continued the guerrilla war even in her absence up to 1829, but in vain. He wished to install Shivalingappa, Chennamma’s adopted son, as the ruler of Kittur, but he was captured and hanged by the British. Shivalingappa was also arrested by the British forces.

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Imprisonment and Death

[Image Courtesy: Hindu History]

Rani Chennamma’s samadhi (burial place) is in Bailhongal taluk, under the care of Government agencies. However, sadly, the burial place of this valiant queen lies neglected , in a state of poor maintenance. The only time the place is looked after is during the ‘ Kittur Utsava ’ and ‘ Kannada Rajyotsava ‘.

Commemorations

Kittur Rani Chennamma is still remembered for her valour. Even though she couldn’t win the war against the British, she became an inspiration for India’s freedom fighters and a lesson for the British government that Indian rulers will not accept their enforced laws without a good fight.

During the freedom movement, her brave resistance against the British forces became the theme of several inspirational plays, folk songs ( Lavani ) and stories. Rani Chennamma’s first victory against the British forces is still honoured annually in October during the ‘Kittur Utsava’, held in Kittur.

[Image Courtesy: Wikipedia]

On September 11, 2007, Rani Chennamma’s statue was unveiled at the Indian Parliament complex in New Delhi by the first woman President of India, Smt. Pratibha Patil. The statue was donated by the Kittur Rani Chennamma Memorial Committee and was sculpted by Vijay Gaur . Two other statues of Rani Chennamma were also installed at Bangalore and Kittur.

Shagun Gupta is a fiction enthusiast and an amateur photographer, currently embarking on a writing career after having recently earned her post-graduate degree in Mass Communication.

“She was born in 1778, 56 years before the 1857 revolt led by Rani Lakshmi Bai”…. the difference is 79 years.

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Kittur Rani Chennamma: The Beacon of Resistance Against British Rule

Rani Chennamma was the first woman independence objector in India. She stood alone with a lively, burning eye beside the British Empire. She did not succeed in driving them away, but Rani Chennamma did incite many women to rise against British rule. She was the Queen of Chennamma, the princely state of Kittur in Karnataka. Today she is well known as Kittur Rani Chennamma.

Kitturu Rani was born on 23 October 1778 in Kittur, Karnataka. It was a small village of 5 KM distance from Belgaum in Karnataka in 1778. She got guidance in her early days for sword fighting, horse riding and archery. She became the queen of her native kingdom and married Raja Mallasarja of the Desai family. She had a son, also. After her son died in 1824, she adopted Shivalingappa, making him heir to the throne. Her strong conflict against the British gave them enough indication that their policies won’t be taken by the Indians hands down.

The Creation of One of India’s First Warrior Queens

In 1824, 33 years before the 1857 War of Independence, the British took control of Kittur under the lapsed policy as no male successor existed. The battle ended with her martyrdom, and she is remarkable today as one of the earliest Indian rulers who fought for independence. She is much respected in Karnataka as an icon of courage, bravery, and women’s superiority.

Rani Chennamma and the local people strongly opposed British high-handedness. In the ensuing battle, hundreds of British soldiers were killed along with Thackeray. The degradation of defeat at the hands of a small ruler was too much for the British to ingest. They brought in bigger armies from Mysore and Sholapur and bounded Kittur.

Rani Chennamma tried her best to avoid the war. She also negotiated with Chaplin and Governor of the Bombay Presidency, under whose command Kittur fell. But she was failed, and for that reason, she compelled to declare war. For 12 days, the valiant Queen and her soldiers defended their fort. But as is the common peculiarity, traitors sneaked in and mixed mud and manure in the fine particles in the canons.

Rani Chennamma sent a letter to the Governor of Bombay to implore the cause of Kittur. However, Lord Elphinstone turned down the request leading to an all-out war. The British tried to take away the treasure and jewels of Kittur and attacked them with a force of 200 men and four guns. In the first round of war, during October 1824, British forces lost heavily, with St John Thackeray, Investor and Opinionated, killed by Rani’s forces.

On 11 September 2007, a statue of Rani Chennamma was unveiled at the Indian Parliament Complex by Pratibha Patil, the first woman President of India. On occasion, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Home Minister Shivraj Patil, Lok Sabha Speaker Somanath Chatarjee, BJP leader L.K.Advani, Karnataka Chief Minister H.D.Kumaraswamy and others were present, marking the importance of the function. The statue was donated by Kittur Rani Chennamma Memorial Committee and sculpted by Vijay Gaur. Her statues are installed at Bangalore and Kittur also.

She released the hostages with an understanding with Chaplin that the war would be ended. But Chaplin deceitfully continued the war with even more soldiers. Chennamma fought fiercely with the aid of her lieutenant, Sangolli Rayanna, but was ultimately captured and imprisoned at Bailhongal Fort, where she died on 21 February 1829. Sangolli Rayanna continued the guerrilla war until 1829 until his capture, but it was ineffective, and he was caught due to deceit and hanged.

Rani Chennamma’s strong resistance against the British gave them enough indication that their policies won’t be taken by the Indians hands down. Her victory in the first phase of the battle against the British is still remembered fondly in Kittur and surrounding areas. The tales of her bravery have inspired many folk dance and music performances in Karnataka that continue to be a part of the popular tradition. The Kittur Utsava (22-24 October every year) commemorates her memorable victory that dented the British pride severely and showed everyone that the British forces were far from invincible.

Rani Chennamma has become a legend. During the freedom movement, her brave confrontation with the British created the theme of plays, songs, and song stories. Folk songs, or lavanis, were legion, and the freedom fight improved greatly through singing bards who moved all over the region.

After ending up in captivity, Kittur Rani Chennamma devoted herself to reading holy texts and praying for her freedom. But as time passed by, she ultimately lost hope. The fighter in her could not stand the disgrace and helplessness, owing to which her health started weakening. Kittur Rani Chennamma breathed her last breath on 21 February 1829 in the Bailhonghal Fort.Rani Chennamma’s samadhi or interment place is in Bailhongal taluk.Although it is in a neglected state with poor maintenance, the place is surrounded by a small park maintained by Government agencies. During the Kittur Utsava of every 22nd to 24th of October, these memories are renewed, and the people sincerely salute them.

Her violent passion for saving the state greatly inspired Sangolli Rayanna, another well-known freedom fighter of Karnataka who continued to fight on her behalf. He was arrested and afterward hanged by the British a few years later. Her adopted son Shivalingappa was also taken into custody. However, the brave queen’s life was cut short; her chaos against the British had given the people of Kittur the bravery to take on them.

📎 Related Articles

1. Britannica: Doctrine of Lapse 2. New World Encyclopedia: First War of Indian Independence 3. Wikipedia: Sangolli Rayanna 4. An Exemplary IPS Officer: Shivdeep Waman Lande’s Journey 5. Corporal Gursewak Singh: A Heroic Tale of Selfless Bravery

Kittur Rani Chennamma Essay in English

Kittur Rani Chennamma Essay in English , India has a long history to get freedom. There were lots of warriors and patriotists in India who fought for the country’s freedom in different ways. Not only men but even there were some women who showed their love towards their country and helped it to get independence from British rule. Today, in this essay, we are going to talk about Kittur Rani Chennamma, who was the first warrior queen of the country.

Kittur Rani Chennamma History

In 1824, she led an armed rebellion against the British East India Company. Later she was arrested, but it was her courage and dedication, which made her capable of fighting against the British. This is how the independence movement was started in the country.

When we go deeper into the history of Kittur Rani Chennamma, you will come to know about many interesting things, which actually make you think that she was a real freedom fighter. She has a surprisingly amazing role in the freedom movement of our country.

About Kittur Rani Chennamma in English

Kittur Rani Chennamma was born on October 23, 1778, into a Desai family. She was born in a Kakati village, which was part of the previous kingdom of Kittur. This village was situated 5 km north of Belgaum in Karnataka. Since childhood, she underwent many pieces of training. This is how she was good at archery, sword fighting, and horse riding. When she was 15 years old, she was married to a king named Mallasarja Desai.

After becoming the queen of Kittur, she gave birth to a son. But unfortunately, her husband passed away, which made her break to a great extent. Again the sad news came in 1824 when her son died after the death of her husband. Now, she had to take responsibility for her kingdom to save it from British rule. She was strong enough to handle this responsibility. So, she took this responsibility and started fighting for her kingdom.

Essay on Kittur Rani Chennamma

Learn the role of kittur rani chennamma in the freedom struggle.

After the death of her husband and son, Kittur Rani Chennamma decided to adopt a boy named Shivalingappa. This is how Shivalingappa become her successor. But the British East India Company did not agree with this thing. They did not accept Shivalingappa as her son. The main motive of the British East India Company was to take over the kingdom of Kittur, but Kittur Rani Chennamma did not want this to happen at any cost.

The British East India Company assumed that Kittur Rani Chennamma will easily give up, but nothing happened like that. British East India Company ordered the removal of her adopted son by making use of the Doctrine of Lapse. This thing did not affect her courage, she made all the efforts to save her kingdom from British rule.

She decided to write a letter to the governor of Bombay. In this letter, she requested the governor to take action against the British East India Company. Unfortunately, the governor did not entertain her request. On 21st October 1824, the British troop attacked her kingdom with an army of 200 men.

The number of 200 men in an army was huge as compared to the army of the Kittur Rani Chennamma. But the good thing was that the army of the Kittur Rani Chennamma fought great, which made the British army defeated.

Not only this, but even, two of the officers of the British army were also taken as hostages, which were Mr. Stevenson and Sir Walter Elliot. The British wanted to end this war and sent many proposals to her. She agreed to their proposal only on one condition. If the British army finishes the war, then only she will return their officers. The British East India Company was humiliated by their defeat by the army of Kittur Rani Chennamma.

They did not want her to let it go easily. The unfortunate thing happened to her when a few members of her army betrayed her. This is how she got a big defeat against the British troops during the attack of the British army on Kittur for the second time. It made her captured by the British army and sent to jail. Kittur Rani Chennamma was imprisoned for life at the Bailhongal Fort.

About the death of Kittur Rani Chennamma

She died in prison. When she was in jail, she read holy textbooks. This is how she spent her time in jail. After some time, the health of Kittur Rani Chennamma started worsening. It was the day of 21 February 1829, when she left for the heavenly abode in the Bailhongal Fort.

Her courage, determination, and hard work were qualities, which gave her the strength to fight against the British East India Company. She was a motivation to other freedom fighters at that time who also wanted to take on the British East India Company and make them go away from the country.

Kittur Rani Chennamma was one of the first women freedom fighters who showed some courage in fighting against British Colonization. Kittur Rani Chennamma is a national heroine. She is very famous in Karnataka. The Karnataka government has also made her symbol in the form of a statue to remember how she fought for the independence of the country. It also shows how Kittur Rani Chennamma supported the freedom movement in India.

A historical drama film was produced named Kitturu Chennamma, which was directed by B.R. Panthulu. This film was all about the life story of the Kittur Rani Chennamma. The best thing is that there is a popular daily Indian Railways Train that was named after Kittur Rani Chennamma.

This train is named Rani Chennamma Express, which connects Bangalore and Kolhapur. There are other statues of Kittur Rani Chennamma being installed in Bangalore and Kittur. This is how it showed the importance of freedom fighters in the freedom movement in India. It can be said that Kittur Rani Chennamma was a great personality with a freedom fighter. We can read a lot about Kittur Rani Chennamma in many books and on the web.

This is Kittur Rani Chennamma Essay in English, from this entire article, we cover information regarding kittur rani chennamma details. If found anything missing let us know by commenting below. For more info kindly visit us at wikiliv.com

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Journey of Kittur Rani Chennamma : Overview, Struggles, & Death

Kittur Rani Chennamma, a courageous historical figure, played a vital role in resisting British rule. Born on October 23, 1778, in Karnataka, her actions and resilience continue to inspire generations, symbolizing the spirit of resistance. After her husband died in 1824, the British did not accept her as ruler. The British let down her request to make her adopted son the ruler of the kingdom. She was then arrested but continued her struggle to resist the British.

This article covers her life, struggles, and the annual Kittur Utsav dedicated to remembering her. Also, find out some important memorials about the Journey of Kittur Rani Chennamma.

Journey of Kittur Rani Chennamma

Table of Content

Overview of Journey of Kittur Rani Chennamma

Kittur rani chennamma against britishers, doctrine of lapse, death of kittur rani chennamma, the aftermath of kittur rani chennamma deaths, the kittur utsav, memorials of rani chennamma.

Who was Kittur Rani Chennamma?

Kittur Rani Chennamma, also known as Rani Chennamma of Kittur, was a legendary queen who ruled the princely state of Kittur in present-day Karnataka, India, from 1792 to 1824. She is remembered primarily for her courageous resistance against the British East India Company , becoming a symbol of defiance and female empowerment in the fight for independence.

Kittur Rani Chennamma During British Rule

Kittur Rani Chennamma’s reign coincided with a crucial period in Indian history, marked by the expansion and increasing dominance of the British East India Company. Here’s a breakdown of her experiences and role during British rule:

Challenges and Conflicts

• Doctrine of Lapse:  Upon her husband’s death in 1824, the British invoked the Doctrine of Lapse, claiming Kittur since they deemed Chennamma’s adopted son an illegitimate heir. Chennamma fiercely opposed this, refusing to surrender her kingdom.
• Expansionist Policies:  The British sought to expand their control over princely states like Kittur, often using economic pressure and political maneuvers. Chennamma resisted such interference, actively protecting Kittur’s autonomy and sovereignty.
• Military Conflict:  When negotiations failed, Chennamma led her army in a valiant resistance against the British. Notably, she achieved the first victory against them in 1824, employing guerrilla tactics and inspiring other kingdoms to consider similar resistance.

Leadership and Resistance

• Military Prowess:  Chennamma was not just a queen but a skilled leader and military strategist. She trained extensively in martial arts and swordsmanship, leading her troops with courage and determination.
• Strategic Alliances:  She forged alliances with neighboring kingdoms like Sangolli Rayanna’s Savanur, seeking collective strength against the British.
• Symbol of Defiance:  Her resistance resonated across India, sparking a sense of defiance against British rule and inspiring other freedom fighters.

Legacy and Impact

• Though ultimately defeated in 1824, Chennamma’s resistance became a significant chapter in the early fight for Indian independence.
• Her legacy continues to inspire, particularly in Karnataka, where she is celebrated as a national hero and symbol of courage and resilience.
• Her story highlights the struggles and sacrifices faced by Indian kingdoms during British rule and the spirit of resistance that emerged.

Kittur Rani Chennamma was born on October 23, 1778, in the princely state of Kittur, which is now a part of the Belgaum district in Karnataka. Her father, who was the ruler of Kittur, passed away when she was young. Later, she married Raja Mallasarja from another kingdom. Some important points about her are:

• Chennamma became the ruler of Kittur in 1824 after her husband’s death.
• The British government wanted to control Kittur, following their policy of annexing Indian kingdoms.
• In 1824, the British asked Chennamma to accept their rule and pay tribute, but she refused.
• This led to a battle between the Kittur army and the British forces.
• Despite Chennamma’s brave fight, the British overpowered them with better weapons and more soldiers.
• Chennamma and her lieutenant, Sangolli Rayanna, were captured and imprisoned.
• Even though she lost, Chennamma’s courage inspired others to join the struggle for freedom against the British.
• In 1956, the Indian government posthumously honored her with the title ‘Rani’ for her bravery and contribution to the freedom struggle.
• Kittur Rani Chennamma is remembered as a freedom fighter who stood against British rule, inspiring generations to fight against injustice.

The British East India Company followed a rule called the Doctrine of Lapse. This rule, started by Lord Dalhousie in 1848, allowed them to take control of any Indian state if the ruler died without a natural heir. It allowed the British to expand their territories and have more power in India.

Kittur Rani Chennamma, the queen of Kittur, faced the consequences of this policy. When her husband died in 1824, she became the ruler, but the British didn’t accept her as the leader. Instead, they put their person in charge.

In 1829, Chennamma adopted a son to be the heir, but the British disagreed. They kept interfering in Kittur’s affairs. In 1830, the British wanted Chennamma to accept their control and pay them, but she said no. This led to a fight between the Kittur army and the British, and Chennamma was captured along with her lieutenant, Sangolli Rayanna.

After capturing her, the British used the Doctrine of Lapse to take over Kittur. They did the same to other Indian states like Jhansi, Satara, Nagpur, and Oudh. Many Indians didn’t like this policy because it felt like an attack on their freedom and their way of life.

After being captured, freedom fighter Kittur Rani Chennamma was kept in Bailhongal Fort for the rest of her life. She was isolated, and due to a lack of medication, her health got worse.

Even though she was imprisoned, Chennamma stayed strong and didn’t accept British rule. She inspired others to resist and fight for independence.

Chennamma’s living conditions were very bad. She didn’t have enough food, water, or proper sanitation. Because of this, her health got even worse, and she passed away on February 21, 1829, at just 30 years old. Her death was a big loss for the people of Kittur, and they were very sad. They continued to remember and honor her.

10 lines about Kittur Rani Chennamma

• Queen of Kittur:  Ruled a small kingdom in Karnataka from 1792-1824.
• Defiance against British:  Refused to surrender to the British Doctrine of Lapse, sparking resistance.
• Military Prowess:  Led her army in fierce battles, even achieving an initial victory in 1824.
• Strategic Alliances:  Collaborated with neighboring kingdoms like Sangolli Rayanna’s Savanur for strength.
• Symbol of Resistance:  Her courage inspired other kingdoms and freedom fighters across India.
• Legacy for Women:  Broke barriers, empowering women to fight for equality and leadership roles.
• National Hero of Karnataka:  Statues, monuments, and cultural programs honor her memory.
• Inspiration for Freedom Movements:  Her spirit of defiance resonated with later struggles for independence.
• Global Relevance:  Her fight against oppression remains relevant in today’s struggles for justice.
• Enduring Legacy:  Continues to inspire courage, resistance, and the fight for freedom.

When Kittur Rani Chennamma passed away, the people of Kittur felt a deep sadness. They remembered her as someone who stood up against the British, and her loss was felt strongly.

After she died, the British took control of Kittur. The people were still sad about Chennamma’s death, but they kept her memory alive as a symbol of standing against British rule. Even though the British tried to control the region and stop any rebellions, the spirit of resistance that Chennamma had inspired in the people of Kittur couldn’t be stopped.

Kittur Utsav is an annual cultural festival in Kittur, Karnataka, India, dedicated to remembering Kittur Rani Chennama, a significant queen from the 18th century.

• Timing: Usually held in October or November, the festival lasts several days.
• Cultural Celebration: The festival is a happy time to celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage.
• Events: Traditional music, dance, and theatrical performances are part of the festival.
• Grand Procession: A highlight is a grand parade where a statue of Kittur Rani Chennamma is carried through town streets. Traditional music and dance accompany the procession, symbolizing tribute to Chennamma’s courage and contributions to Indian independence.
• Additional Activities: The festival includes various other activities focusing on the history and culture of the region, such as art exhibitions, food fairs, traditional craft displays, and educational programs.

Kittur Rani Chennamma was a brave queen from Kittur who inspired many with her courage and leadership. People remember her for standing up against the British in 1824, marking it as the first battle for Indian independence.

• Kittur Fort:  Kittur Fort is located in Kittur, Karnataka. Fort is a big memorial for Rani Chennamma, and it is where she fought against the British in 1824, the first battle for Indian independence. The fort now has a museum telling her life story and the struggle against the British.
• Rani Chennamma Circle: Chennamma Circle is in Bangalore’s Jayanagar neighborhood. The circle has a statue of Rani Chennamma on a horse, reminding everyone of her bravery and leadership.
• Kittur Rani Chennamma Stadium: Found in Hubli, Karnataka, this is a significant sports facility. The stadium entrance has a statue of Rani Chennamma, honoring her contributions to the freedom struggle.

Legacy of Kittur Rani Chennamma

Kittur Rani Chennamma’s legacy transcends her specific historical context and continues to inspire generations in India and beyond. Here’s a closer look at her enduring impact:

Symbol of Resistance and Courage

• Her defiance against the British, especially her initial victory, resonated deeply across India, igniting a spirit of resistance against colonial rule.
• Her courage in leading a small kingdom against a powerful empire continues to inspire individuals and movements fighting for justice and freedom.

Champion of Women’s Empowerment

• In a patriarchal society, Chennamma’s leadership as a queen and military commander broke traditional barriers and empowered women to challenge societal norms.
• Her story resonates with women fighting for equal rights and opportunities, serving as a reminder of their potential to lead and fight for their beliefs.

National Hero and Cultural Icon

• Particularly in Karnataka, Chennamma is revered as a national hero. Numerous statues, monuments, and cultural programs commemorate her life and achievements.
• Her story is woven into the fabric of local history and identity, inspiring pride and reminding people of their heritage and past struggles.

Inspiration for Freedom Movements

• Though her reign pre-dates the Indian independence movement by several decades, Chennamma’s resistance became a reference point for later freedom fighters.
• Her spirit of defiance and willingness to fight for her kingdom’s autonomy resonated with those seeking independence for the entire nation.

Kittur Rani Chennamma’s brave resistance against the British, her sacrifices, and the lasting impact she has left define her as a symbol of strength and inspiration. Her opposition to unfair policies and the resulting cultural influence are reflected in the yearly Kittur Utsav and the dedicated memorials. Chennamma’s narrative stands as evidence of the steadfast spirit of those who oppose injustice, establishing her as a respected figure in Indian history and an enduring source of motivation for generations to come.

Related Articles: Important Leaders Associated With The Revolt Of 1857 Significance of Quit India Movement In what ways did the British change their policies as a result of the rebellion of 1857?

FAQs on Journey of Kittur Rani Chennamma

What is the significance of kittur rani chennamma in indian history.

Kittur Rani Chennamma holds significance in Indian history as a courageous queen who resisted British rule, becoming a symbol of resistance and inspiration for future generations.

Who was Rani Chennamma?

Rani Chennamma was a brave queen of Kittur in the 18th century, known for her leadership in the fight against British oppression and her contribution to the Indian freedom struggle.

Where is Kittur Rani Chennama Stadium?

Kittur Rani Chennama Stadium is located in Hubli, Karnataka, and serves as a prominent sports facility.

Who was the husband of Kittur Rani Chennamma?

The husband of Kittur Rani Chennamma was Raja Mallasarja.

When was Rani Chennamma born?

Rani Chennamma was born on October 23, 1778.

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• Kittur Rani Chennamma: Warrior queen who lead an armed rebellion against the British East India Company in 1824

Kittur Rani Chennamma: Warrior queen who lead an armed rebellion against the British East India Company in 1824

• Aug 13, 2017

One of the first warrior queens of the country, Kittur Rani Chennamma lead an armed rebellion against the British East India Company in 1824. She was later arrested but her courage and her fight against the British started the independence movement in India. Here are certain things that you need to know about Chennamma and her role in the freedom movement of India.

Early Life:

She was born on October 23, 1778, into a Desai family in a village which was part of former Kingdom of Kittur, located 5 km north of Belgaum in Karnataka. She had been trained in sword fighting, archery and horse riding at a young age.  At the age of 15, she was married to Raja Mallasarja Desai and had a son with him. In 1816 her husband passed away and after a few years in 1824, her son also died after which the responsibility to save her kingdom from British fell on her shoulders.

Role in Freedom Struggle: 

Rani Chennamma, after his husband and son’s death, adopted a boy Shivalingappa and made him her successor, which did not go down well with the British East India Company and it ordered the removal of Shivalingappa by using Doctrine of Lapse. But that did not deter her and she put in all her efforts to save her kingdom from coming under the British control.

Rani Chennamma wrote a letter to the governor of Bombay requesting him to take action against the British but he did not entertain her request. With an army of two hundred men, British troop attacked Kittur on 21st October 1824, which was huge in comparison to the army of the queen.

However, the British army was defeated and two of its officers, Sir Walter Elliot and Mr Stevenson, were also taken, hostage. Later she agreed on returning the officers if the British army ends the war. However, the Britishers, who were humiliated by their previous defeat, did not want to let it go easily.  A few members of the army betrayed her and she lost to the British troops when they attacked Kittur the second time. She was captured and imprisoned for life at the Bailhongal Fort.

Also Read: Kalpana Dutta: The freedom fighter who made bombs for revolutionaries

In prison, she spent her time reading holy textbooks and after some time her health started deteriorating. On 21 February 1829, she passed away in the Bailhonga Fort.  The courage with which she fought was an inspiration to other freedom fighters to take on Britishers.

Also Read: Rani Avanti Bai: The queen who raised an Army of over 4,000 and fought against the British

As India celebrates 70 years of independence, we bring you stories of women who were part of the Indian Independence Struggle. You might have heard about some of them but most do not find a mention in our history books or popular memory. These were ordinary women from all walks of life who managed to make extraordinary contributions to the cause of freedom.   This series is our tribute to these women and their exemplary work. We bring you 70 stories of courage and valour over the next one week leading up to  15th August 2017 . Write to us, if you have any names to add to this list. Email:  [email protected]

For interesting news videos from InUth, follow us on Youtube.com/InUthdotcom

KITTUR RANI CHENNAMMA

The Warrior Queen who took up the gauntlet of British Imperialism

As obnoxious laws go, nothing in history could probably outdo the infamous Doctrine of Lapse perpetrated by the English East India Company (EIC) on hapless Indian sovereigns with impunity. The doctrine stipulated that any princely state under the paramountcy of EIC would be automatically annexed by the Company, if the ruler was perceived incompetent or died without a male heir; a cunning ploy to annex the states illegally on one hand and on the other hand, impose an arbitrary regulation that forbid women from being heads of states, which was nowhere in the Indian tradition. Although it was promulgated as law by the Governor General of India, Lord Dalhousie, only in 1848, the EIC had been pretty much indulging in the practice much earlier, wherever it had established its influence (Bizarre as it might sound today, a corporate outfit got away with enacting laws of the land and taking over sovereign states at will). The earliest princely state they tried to snatch away in this manner was Kittur, falling in Belgaum District of the present-day state of Karnataka. The King of Kittur and his only son passed away successively during the years of 1816 and 1824, and the EIC promptly set out to annex the kingdom, employing the doctrine of lapse. They were in for a surprise however, as the widowed but stout-hearted queen, Chennamma, refused to accept their highhandedness and went to war with them. Although the valiant queen’s epic struggle against the British imperialism ended tragically, it left a grand legacy of patriotism and women’s empowerment generations of Indians could emulate.

Born in October 1778 in the village of Kakati in Belgaum District of Karnataka in an aristocratic family, she grew up being trained in martial skills like horse riding, fencing and archery; and married Raja Mallasarja, the King of Kittur, when she was 15. Twenty-three years into her marriage, her husband passed away, leaving her with a son, who too died another eight years on, in 1824. At 46 years of age, she suddenly found herself at the receiving end of the EIC’s doctrine of lapse, with the company eager to snatch her kingdom away. Nonetheless, brave and heroic by inclination, she was having none of it. To thwart the nefarious attempt, Chennamma adopted a boy, Shivalingappa, and declared him heir to the throne, while she remained the Regent. The EIC ordered her to expel the boy, which she refused. She wrote a letter to Mountstuart Elphinstone, the Lieutenant General of their Bombay Presidency, in the jurisdiction of which Kittur fell, trying to reason with him. Elphinstone would not budge and war became inevitable.

Irked by the Rani’s defiance, the Collector and Political Agent of EIC for the region, St. John Thackeray, ordered an immediate attack by EIC troops. A large contingent of the Madras Native Horse Artillery and 5th Madras Native Infantry was moved from Dharwad, where they were stationed, to Kittur on 22 October 1824. Arrogant and overconfident of the contingent making short work of subduing the Rani’s garrison, Thackeray, accompanied by his two sidekicks Elliot and Stevenson, joined the contingent to personally oversee the operation and, more significantly, to ensure that he did not lose sight of the immense wealth the kingdom possessed in its treasury, valued at 1.5 million rupees, which the Company intended to confiscate.

Undaunted, the Rani, ably assisted by her gallant deputy, Sangolli Rayanna and a retinue of other brave officers like Gurusiddappa and Amatur Balappa, kept her cool and braced herself for the attack she knew would be coming, skilfully positioning her gunners, musketeers and swordsmen to defend her fortification. The commander of the horse artillery, Captain C W Black, had his gunners blow open the fort gate and brashly rode in, with the native infantry on his heels. What followed was absolute mayhem. While the Kittur gunners and musketeers picked out the enemy troops at will from their vantage points, their swordsmen charged into the confused enemy ranks and cut them down mercilessly. Even as the enemy was being routed in a swift and bloody engagement, the Kittur soldiers pursued and encircled them, trapping the entire lot within the fort. Those who were not killed were taken prisoner. The British losses were heavy. Captain Black and his two officers, Lieutenants, R Sewell and D B Dighton, were killed along with several of their soldiers and a larger number captured. To add insult to injury, Thackeray himself was killed and his two sidekicks made prisoners.

Magnanimous in victory, the Rani released all the captured soldiers on parole, while holding the two civilian sidekicks of Thackeray as hostages, insisting that the Company undertake to desist from any acts of aggression against her kingdom in future, before they could be released. EIC’s Commissioner for the region, Chaplin, began negotiations with the Rani for their release, deliberately dragging the process on to gain time to mobilise a larger force for a second attempt to storm KIttur. Eventually, early in December, Chaplin acceded to the Rani’s demand and agreed never to invade Kittur again. Accordingly, the two hostages were released on 2nd December.

In a blatant act of chicanery, Chaplin reneged on his promise within twenty-four hours, and a large army of the EIC, comprising over 20,000 men and more than 400 guns, launched an offensive against Kittur, the very next day, 3rd December. (Interestingly, in keeping with the Company’s craftiness in misrepresenting facts, not even Chaplin’s name appears in their records, which state that the hostages were released unilaterally by the Rani on 2nd December for fear of retribution and their offensive commenced on 3rd December. There couldn’t have been a worse instance of not just the unscrupulousness and depravity of EIC officials but their abject idiotism.)

Outnumbered and outgunned though, the lionhearted Rani and her diehard lieutenants fought fiercely, defending their fort. This time around, the civilian official accompanying the army as the watchdog of the treasury was the Sub-Collector of Solapur, John C Monroe (nephew of the more famous Sir Thomas Monroe), who had been designated as Thackeray’s successor. As luck would have it, he too was killed at the beginning of the operations. However, with overwhelmingly superior forces arrayed against her it was only a matter of time before the Rani lost the war. Nevertheless, ferocious fighting raged for almost a fortnight, at the end of which the Rani was captured. Imprisoned at the fort at Bailhongal, the gallant queen died in captivity after five gruelling years of incarceration, on 21 February, 1829.

The Rani’s ever-loyal deputy, Sangolli Rayanna, continued with Kittur’s fight against the British through guerrilla warfare, but finally cornered and captured, was executed in 1831. Shivalingappa, the adopted heir, was arrested by the British, but what became of him remains unknown. Sangolli Rayanna was hanged from a banyan tree at a place called Nandagad in Belgaum District and buried at a nearby spot. Legend has it that they had to dig a longer-than-normal grave for him, because he was an exceptionally tall man of seven feet height. A close friend of his is believed to have had planted a banyan sapling at his burial spot, which has grown into a fully grown tree over the years and attracts many visitors. In Kannada folklore, Sangolli Rayanna enjoys almost equal space as the fiery queen he served.

Rani Chennama’s epic struggle against British imperialism has few equals in Indian history. Though she lost the war, she leaves a legacy of indomitable moral strength for us to defend the land of our birth against foreign invasion and a sterling example for women of India to emulate to assert their rights in our male-dominated society. She is a highly revered historical figure in Karnataka. The Government of Karnataka maintains a park at her Samadhi in Bailhongal Taluk in the district of Belgaum (officially ‘Belagavi’), where she was buried. The people of Kittur commemorate her famous victory over the British forces in October 1824, through a festival held annually during October. The life and times of the Rani and her principal lieutenant, Sangolli Rayanna, have been featured through popular Kannada literature and movies. The Kannadigas celebrate their heroics through popular ballads. The statues of the Rani stand tall in Bangalore and other cities of Karnataka as well as Kittur; and so do those of Sangolli Rayanna in most places. The Rani Chennamma University, Belagavi, established by the Government of Karnataka in 2010, honours the warrior queen’s memory. The Indian Railways has named the train connecting the cities of Bangalore and Kolhapur as Rani Chennamma Express. The main railway station of Bangalore City has since been renamed ‘Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna Railway Station’; ‘Kranthiveera’ meaning ‘Revolutionary Hero’. A life-size bronze statue of a horseback-and-sabre-drawn Sangolli Rayanna is installed near the railway station. The Indian Coast Guard has a ship named ICGS Kittur Chennamma. In September 2007, a statue of the Rani, donated by Kittur Rani Chennamma Memorial Committee and sculpted by Vijay Gaur, was unveiled in the Parliament Complex at New Delhi by Smt. Pratibha Patil, the first woman President of India; a fitting monument for such an iconic figure in the history of Indian native resistance to colonialism.

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Kittur Rani Chennamma : Earliest ruler to fight British rule

 “She did not step back looking at the mighty army of British, but fought with great vigour, expertise skill and courage.”

Introduction of Rani Chennamma

• Early Life of Rani Chennamma
• Rani Chennamma during British Rule

War against the British

Rani Chennamma was married to Mallasarja Desai, ruler of Kittur at the age of 15. Her married life seemed to be a sad tale after her husband died in 1816. With this marriage she had only one son, but fate seemed to play a tragic game in her life. Her son breathed his last in 1824, leaving the lonely soul to fight against the British rule.

Queen Chennamma during the British rule

The state of Kittur came under the administration of Dharwad collectorate in charge of Mr. Thackeray. Mr. Chaplin was the commissioner of the region. Both did not recognize the new ruler and the regent, and informed that Kittur had to accept the British regime.

The humiliation of defeat at the hands of a small ruler was too much for the British to swallow. They brought in bigger armies from Mysore and Sholapur and surrounded Kittur.

Rani Chennamma tried her best to avoid war; she negotiated with Chaplin and Governor of Bombay Presidency under whose regime Kittur fell. It had no effect. Chennamma was compelled to declare war. For 12 days, the valiant Queen and her soldiers defended their fort, but as is the common trait, traitors sneaked in and mixed mud and dung in the gunpowder in the canons. The Rani was defeated (1824 CE). She was taken a prisoner and kept in the fort of Bailhongal for life. She spent her days reading holy texts and performing pooja till her death in 1829 CE.

Kittur Rani Chennamma could not win the war against British, but she etched her presence for many centuries in the world of history. Along with Onake Obavva, Abbakka Rani and Keladi Chennamma, she is much revered in Karnataka as an icon of bravery.

Rani Chennamma has become a legend. During the freedom movement, her brave resistance to British formed theme of plays, songs, and song stories. Folk songs or lavanis were a legion and freedom struggle got a good boost through singing bards who moved throughout the region.

It is heartening news that a statue of Kittur Chennamma was installed in the Parliamentary Building premises at New Delhi on 11th September 2007. It is the most fitting tribute to a brave queen, who was the earliest ruler in Bharat to fight the British rule.

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• July 28, 2024
• Ancient history
• Kittur Rani Chennama:…

Kittur Rani Chennama: One of the first female freedom fighters of India

• Ancient history Asian history

• June 29, 2024

Women of the 18th or 19th century were brave enough to run an administrative state or a region. It is because they had the support of their husbands and their regional people. Not only that, they followed their tradition in the same order until the capture of British Colonialisation. They followed the heirloom tradition: if a King died, the next King would be his son; if that son was very young, he would be the future King until then his mother, the Queen would rule the region. It looks like it was very easy to be Queen in that period, but still, she is a woman. She has her own trouble, like she may become the mistress of her husband’s brother or the enemy King who fought in war and captured the region. The people may not accept her and so on. So being a woman even as a Queen is also not easy in this world. Still, there were many notable Queens who had made their contribution in India is quite a number. They succeeded in their role because of their bravery and willpower. Like that here we are about to see one such Queen, Kittur Rani Chennamma.

Personal Life:

Rani Chennamma was born on 23rd October 1778 in Kakati a small village. Kakati village is now in the present-day Belagavi District of Karnataka, India. Chennamma was very well trained in horse riding, sword fighting and archery during her childhood. She got married at the very young age of 15 to Raja Malla Sarja of the Desai family. He ruled the Kittur province; Kittur is an area between Dharwad and Belgaum city. Chennamma was an admirer of Raja Malla Sarja since the age of 9.

Chennamma and Malla Sarja had a son named, Shivalingarudra Sarja. In 1816, King Malla Sarja died who left behind Chennamma and his song clueless. But as per the norm, Shivalingarudra ascended the throne of Kittur province. Soon Shivalingarudra’s health worsen. Due to his fallen health, Chennamma took up the reign of Kittur. It is seen that either Chennamma or Shivalingarudra adopted a child named, Shivalingappa as their next heir for the throne of Kittur. Shivalingarudra Sharja died in 1824 after his illness.

Battle against the British:

British colonialism brought many changes in the administration of India after they defeated the Marathas, Tippu and Hyder Ali.  One such change is the Doctrine of Lapse, which was introduced by Lord Dalhousie. The Doctrine of Lapse was a policy of annexation brought by the East India Company. This policy states that “if an Indian King or ruler died without any heir of their own their kingdom does not belong to them anymore, that kingdom would lapse and become the part of East India Company’s territories. It is also against the rule that they must not bring up any adopted person to be their heir for their kingdom”.

When Shivalingappa was adopted as the next heir for Kittur’s reign, this became sensational among the East India Company. The East India Company severely opposed this matter by stating the policy, Doctrine of Lapse. Soon over, Kittur province came under the control of the Dharwad City Collectorate, St. John Thackeray along with the commissioner of Dharwad City, Mr. Chaplin.

To clear this problematic issue, Rani Chennamma sent a letter to support her in this case to Mount Stuart Elphinstone, Lieutenant and Governor of the Bombay Province. But they neglect the letter that is in favour of her. Lately, in 1823 a war broke out because of this issue. The British in the first place sent their soldiers to guard the treasury and crown jewels of Kittur which was almost valued at 1.5 million. To fight the war, the British army sent around 20,100 soldiers to Kittur. In October 1824, the first round of war began. In this round, the British army faced a loss and also St. John Thackery was killed by Amatur Balappa, a lieutenant of Rani Chennamma. Sir Walter Elliot and Mr Stevenson also became the captives in the first round of the war.

Later, Rani Chennamma was betrayed by the commissioner of Dharwad city, Mr. Chaplin. He assured if she released the two of his British Officers in a deal this war would be terminated, but he failed his deal by continuing the war with more forces. This led to the second round of the war in Kittur province. In the second round, the sub-collector of Solapur, Munro, who is also the nephew of Thomas Munro was killed. Rani Chennamma bravely fought for her province and her country to save them from the Britishers. Rani Chennamma along with his Deputy, Sangolli Rayanna fought the war endlessly. But in the long run, Chennamma was captured and imprisoned by the Britishers at Bailhongal Fort.

Sangolli Rayanna continued the war underground till 1829. Rayanna’s only aim is to make Shivalingappa, the adopted son of Chennamma the ruler of Kittur province. Unfortunately, Rayanna was also captivated and hanged by the Britishers. Shivalingappa was also arrested by the British. In the meantime, Rani Chennamma’s health worsened and also died during her imprisonment at Bailhongal Fort on 21st February 1829.

It is seen from the sources that Shivalingappa was taken into the British Custody and was sent to a British school in Dharwad, where he received his studies. After his studies, he joined the British Army and served as a Soldier. Shivalingappa also lived a faraway life from being the adopted son of Kittur Rani Chennamma.

Rani Chennamma’s memorial:

After her death, Rani Chennamma was buried in Bailhongal taluk in the state, of Karnataka. Her burial place became a memorial; now it was surrounded by a small park and it is maintained by the Government of India. Rani Chennamma’s first Victory is still remembered and celebrated in Kittur during the Kittur Utsav which is held every year on 22nd and 24th October.

• On 2007, September 11, a statue of Rani Chennamma was unveiled by the former first women President of India, Pratibha Patil at the Indian Parliament Complex. This statue was donated by the Kittur Rani Chennamma Memorial Committee.
• In 2007, the Indian Government honoured her by issuing a postage stamp in her name.
• Many books were published in dedication to Kittur Rani Chennamma and her fierce fight with the British East India Company.
• It is also seen that Rani Chennamma was also one of the first women who started the fight against the East India Company.

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200 years of kittur uprising: commemorating rani chennamma.

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Kittur Uprising, Rani Chennamma

Mains level: Women led armed freedom struggles

Introduction

• In 1824, a fleet of 20,000 British soldiers attempted to invade the former princely state of Karnataka, positioning themselves at the foothills of the Kittur fort.
• However, Rani Chennamma , the Queen of Kittur, led a valiant resistance, marking one of the earliest woman-led anti-colonial struggles in India.

Kittur Uprising: Historical Context

• Background : Rani Chennamma’s rebellion against the British East India Company in 1824 is celebrated as a significant event in Karnataka’s political history.
• Revolt Catalyst : The Company’s refusal to recognize Shivalingappa, adopted as the successor of Kittur under the ‘doctrine of lapse’, triggered the conflict.
• Military Confrontation : Rani Chennamma led the Kittur army in a fierce battle against the British forces, resulting in the death of British official John Thackery.

Legacy of Rani Chennamma

• Political Leadership : Rani Chennamma’s role as an astute administrator and seasoned stateswoman is highlighted in historical records.
• Popular Perception : Despite her contributions, Rani Chennamma’s significance in national consciousness emerged later, as Karnataka became a state much later than other regions.
• Historical Interpretation : Folklore and local traditions fondly remember Rani Chennamma’s bravery and resilience, portraying her as a protector and guardian in Kannada lavanis or folk songs.

Post-Rebellion Period

• Imprisonment and Death : Following the British capture of Kittur Fort in 1824, Rani Chennamma and her family were imprisoned. She passed away in captivity in 1829.
• Historical Records : Historians emphasize Rani Chennamma’s commitment to serving her people, even during her imprisonment, as evidenced by her efforts to support her family and people.

Commemoration and Contemporary Relevance

• Naanoo Rani Chennamma Campaign : Social groups across India are organizing a national campaign on February 21, commemorating Rani Chennamma’s rebellion.
• Campaign Objectives : The campaign aims to mobilize women against patriarchal, anti-democratic, and casteist forces, invoking Rani Chennamma’s memory as a symbol of resistance and empowerment.
• Political Significance : The campaign underscores the need for gender equality, representation, and social justice, drawing inspiration from Rani Chennamma’s legacy of courage and leadership.

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Make Your Note

Rani Chennamma

• 26 Feb 2024
• GS Paper - 1
• Modern Indian History

For Prelims: Rani Chennamma, British East India Company , Naanoo Rani Chennamma, Doctrine of Lapse .

For Mains: Rani Chennamma, The Freedom Struggle- its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.

Why in News?

Commemorating 200 years of Rani Chennamma’s rebellion against the British East India Company , several social groups across India have organised a national campaign, Naanoo Rani Chennamma (I am Rani Chennamma too) on 21 st February. 

• The Campaign is trying to invoke Chennamma’s memory to show that women can be the vanguards of safeguarding dignity and justice. Rani Chennamma’s bravery is an inspiration to the women of the country. 
• Her stride and quick thinking to safeguard her homeland can be seen as a testament to her commitment and dedication to protecting her kingdom.

Who was Rani Chennamma?

• Chenamma was born on 23 rd October 1778, in Kagati, a small village in present-day Belagavi district in Karnataka. 
• At the age of 15, she married Raja Mallasarja of Kittur, who ruled the province until 1816.
• After Mallasarja’s death in 1816, his eldest son, Shivalingarudra Sarja, ascended the throne. But it wasn’t long before Shivalingarudra’s health started deteriorating. 
• Kittur needed an heir apparent to survive. However, Shivalingarudra had no natural heir and Chennamma too had lost her son. 
• Under the doctrine, any princely state without a natural heir would collapse and would be annexed by the Company.
• John Thackery, the British official at Dharwad, launched an attack on Kittur in October 1824.
• In 1824, a fleet of 20,000 British soldiers was positioned on the foothills of the Kittur fort as they attempted to invade the former princely state of Karnataka. 
• But Rani Chennamma retaliated and killed a British official to protect and safeguard her homeland.
• Trained in martial arts and military tactics, she was a formidable leader.
• The conflict lasted several days, but ultimately, the British prevailed due to their superior firepower.
• Despite her capture and imprisonment in Bailhongal Fort (Belagavi, Karnataka), Rani Chennamma’s spirit remained unbroken.
• Her rebellion inspired countless others to stand up against British rule. She became a symbol of courage and defiance.
• In 2007, the Indian government honoured her by i ssuing a postage stamp in her name.
• Lavani is a vibrant and expressive folk art form that has its roots in the cultural heritage of Maharashtra, but it has also found a place in certain parts of Karnataka. The word “ Lavani” is derived from the Marathi term “lavanya,” which means beauty. 
• Lavani is a combination of traditional song and dance, performed to the rhythmic beats of the Dholki, a percussion instrument.

What is the Doctrine of Lapse?

• It was an annexation policy followed widely by Lord Dalhousie when he was India's Governor-General from 1848 to 1856.
• As per this, any adopted son of the Indian ruler could not be proclaimed as heir to the kingdom.
• Satara (1848 A.D.), Jaitpur, and Sambalpur (1849 A.D.), Baghat (1850 A.D.), Udaipur (1852 A.D.), Jhansi (1853 A.D.), and Nagpur (1854 A.D.).
• The Rebellion of Kittur Rani Chennamma remains a significant chapter in India’s struggle for freedom. Her unwavering leadership and resilience serve as a reminder that even in the face of daunting challenges, courage can prevail.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Q. What was/were the object/objects of Queen Victoria’s Proclamation (1858)? (2014)

• To disclaim any intention to annex Indian States
• To place the Indian administration under the British Crown
• To regulate East India Company’s trade with India

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only 

(b) 2 only 

(c) 1 and 3 only 

(d) 1, 2 and 3

• Owing to policies like the Doctrine of Lapse of British East India Company that were aimed to annex Princely States and the Revolt of 1857, many influential Princely States such as Awadh, Jhansi and Nagpur and influential landlords like Kunwar Singh, saw British policies as an intrusion into their independence. Thus, to allay the fears of Princely States and to break the support group (i.e., dissatisfied Princely Rulers) of rebel sepoys – 1858 proclamation clarified the British position in relation to the Princely States. The proclamation denied any intention to annex Indian States. Hence, 1 is correct.
• The proclamation of 1858 abolished the rule of the East India Company and placed the Indian administration under the British Crown. Hence, 2 is correct.

Q. Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion, the Indian women became the torch bearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss. (2013)

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Rani Chennamma

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This book was posted on the National Book Trust for FREE Download in an endeavour to promote books and reading. Please note the PDFs are for reading purpose only. Any commercial use may attract penalty. For more information please download press release.

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Uploaded by Public Resource on April 6, 2020

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