Context:
The Prime Minister of India has paid tributes to Rani Velu Nachiyar (3rd Jan 1730 – 25th Dec 1796) on her birth anniversary.
Relevance:
GS I: History
Rani Velu Nachiyar: The Pioneering Queen of Tamil Nadu
Background:
- Rani Velu Nachiyar, also known as Veeramangai, hailed from the Ramnad Kingdom of Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu.
- She holds historical significance as the first queen to actively resist and fight against the British colonial power in India.
Multilingual Scholar:
- Nachiyar was a distinguished scholar proficient in languages such as French, English, and Urdu, showcasing her intellectual prowess.
Ascension to the Throne:
- Following her husband Muthuvaduganathaperiya Udaiyathevar’s demise in 1780, Nachiyar ascended to the throne and became the queen of the Sivaganga estate, located in present-day Tamil Nadu.
- Her rule extended until 1790.
Military Initiatives:
- Nachiyar played a pivotal role in producing the first human bomb, demonstrating her innovative military strategies.
- Additionally, she established the first army of trained women soldiers during the late 1700s, showcasing her progressive approach to defense.
