Rani Velu Nachiyar Biography (1730-1796)

Rani Velu Nachiyar (1730-1796)

• Born in 1730 to King Chellamuthu Sethupathy and Queen Sakandhimuthal of the Ramnad kingdom (present-day Tamil Nadu).
• She was Fluent in multiple languages – French, English, Urdu (polyglot) and skilled in military strategy.

• She is revered as ‘Veeramangai’ (Brave Lady) of Tamil Nadu.
• In collaboration with Hyder Ali and Gopala Nayaker, she waged a war against the British and claimed back the Sivagangai Kingdom, which her husband previously ruled.
• She created the first human bomb attack against British ammunition stores.

Education and Skills

• Polyglot: Fluent in French, English, and Urdu.
• Trained in martial arts, horse riding, and archery.
• Skilled in military strategy and diplomacy.

Resistance Against the British

• After the British killed her husband, Muthuvaduganatha Periyavudaya Thevar, in 1772, she sought to reclaim her kingdom.
• Formed alliances with Hyder Ali (Sultan of Mysore) and local chieftain Gopala Nayaker.
• Waged a successful war against the British, reclaiming the Sivagangai Kingdom.

First Human Bomb Attack

• Innovatively used a human bomb strategy to destroy British ammunition stores.
• Kuyili, her loyal follower, executed the plan by sacrificing herself, crippling British military power in the region.

Rule and Administration

• Reclaimed and ruled Sivagangai with wisdom and strength.
• Focused on justice, welfare, and defense, ensuring prosperity and security for her people.

Legacy

• Remembered as a fearless warrior and strategic leader in India’s fight against British colonialism.
• Her story inspires current and future generations, highlighting her courage, innovation, and dedication to her people.
• Rani Velu Nachiyar is celebrated for her pioneering role in the Indian resistance, marking the beginning of a legacy of female leadership and bravery in India’s struggle for independence.

Sharing is caring!