Velu Nachiyar

When we think of India’s freedom struggle, names like Mahatma Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose, and Bhagat Singh often come to mind. But history has many hidden heroes—brave souls whose stories remain untold. One such inspiring figure is Velu Nachiyar, the first Indian queen to fight against British colonial rule, long before the Revolt of 1857. Her story is not just about resistance but also about intelligence, courage, and sacrifice.

Early Life of Velu Nachiyar

Velu Nachiyar was born in 1730 in Ramnathapuram, in present-day Tamil Nadu. She was the only child of Raja Chellamuthu Vijayaragunatha Sethupathy and Rani Sakandhimuthal. Being a royal princess, she received an excellent education. But unlike most girls of her time, Velu wasn’t just taught music and literature. She was also trained in:

• Horse riding

• Sword fighting

• Silambam (a traditional martial art from Tamil Nadu)

• Archery

• War tactics and strategies

• Languages like Tamil, French, and Urdu

Her father believed that a true leader must be ready to defend her people, and he raised her like a warrior.

Marriage and Life as a Queen

At the age of 16, Velu Nachiyar was married to Muthuvaduganatha Thevar, the ruler of the Sivaganga kingdom. She became queen and supported her husband in governing the region. Together, they looked after the welfare of the people and maintained peace and justice.

However, this peaceful time didn’t last long.

The British Attack and a Personal Tragedy

In the 1770s, the British East India Company was expanding its control over Indian territories. They were supported by local kings who had turned into allies for their personal gain. In 1772, a terrible event shook Velu Nachiyar’s life. The British, along with the king of Arcot, attacked the Sivaganga Palace.

Her husband, King Muthuvaduganatha Thevar, was killed in this surprise attack. Velu Nachiyar managed to escape with her daughter, but she lost everything—her kingdom, her husband, and her home.

Years in Exile: Planning for Revenge

After escaping the British attack, Velu Nachiyar sought refuge in Dindigul, under the protection of Hyder Ali, the ruler of Mysore and a strong enemy of the British. While in exile, she spent eight long years gathering support, forming alliances, and building her own army.

She worked closely with:

• Hyder Ali, who gave her weapons and soldiers.

• Local rulers and tribal leaders.

• Women warriors, especially a brave commander named Kuyili.

Velu Nachiyar’s mission was clear: Reclaim Sivaganga and fight the British.

Formation of the First Women's Army

One of Velu Nachiyar’s most remarkable achievements was forming India’s first all-women army. In a time when women were not allowed to even speak openly in public, Velu empowered women to become warriors. She trained them in Silambam, archery, and warfare.

Among these warriors, one name stands out—Kuyili. Kuyili became Velu’s close friend and most trusted commander. She would later sacrifice her life in one of the boldest acts of resistance in Indian history.

The Attack on Sivaganga: A Smart War Strategy

In 1780, Velu Nachiyar was finally ready. With help from Hyder Ali and her loyal warriors, she launched a full-fledged attack on the British forces in Sivaganga.

But this was not just a simple war. Velu Nachiyar used brilliant strategies:

• She gathered intelligence from spies she had placed inside the British camps.

• She used guerrilla warfare, surprising the enemy with quick and sudden attacks.

• She used psychological warfare, spreading fear and confusion among the enemy soldiers.

The turning point of the battle came when Kuyili carried out a suicidal mission. She poured ghee (clarified butter) over her body, lit herself on fire, and jumped into the British ammunition storage. The explosion destroyed their arms and gave Velu Nachiyar’s forces the upper hand.

This brave sacrifice by Kuyili helped Velu Nachiyar defeat the British and reclaim her kingdom.

Reign as a Ruler Again

After regaining Sivaganga in 1780, Velu Nachiyar ruled for over ten years. But she wasn’t just a military leader—she was also a just and wise ruler. During her second reign:

• She rebuilt temples and supported local traditions.

• She focused on agriculture and trade to boost the economy.

• She ensured women’s safety and empowerment.

• She promoted education and health among her people.

She ruled until 1790 and then handed over the throne to her daughter Vellacci, continuing the legacy of powerful women leadership.

Death and Legacy

Velu Nachiyar passed away in 1796, but her story remains one of courage and inspiration. Unfortunately, history has not given her the fame she deserves. She fought the British nearly 80 years before the 1857 rebellion, making her one of the earliest freedom fighters of India.

Even today, many Indians don’t know about her bravery, intelligence, and leadership. However, efforts are now being made to bring her story to light.

Honours and Recognitions

• In 2008, the Government of India issued a postage stamp in her honor.

• Statues of Velu Nachiyar have been installed in Tamil Nadu.

• She is now celebrated in Tamil literature, documentaries, and local festivals.

Why Velu Nachiyar Matters Today

In today’s world, where women still face challenges in leadership and equality, Velu Nachiyar’s story teaches us:

• Women are powerful leaders.

• Bravery is not about strength but about purpose.

• Sacrifice and planning can defeat even the strongest enemy.

She showed us that with courage, intelligence, and unity, even a widow with a child could stand up to a mighty empire like the British and win.

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Conclusion

Velu Nachiyar is not just a chapter in history. She is a symbol of India’s long and diverse freedom struggle. Her life is a story of resilience, courage, and the will to fight back even when the odds are against you.

We must remember and celebrate such hidden heroes, for they remind us that freedom was won not just by a few but by many unsung warriors who gave everything they had—even their lives—for the dream of an independent India.

Let us never forget Rani Velu Nachiyar—the first Indian queen to fight the British with her own army.