The warrior women who fought – and won – against the East India Company

When the East India Company invaded the South Indian kingdom of Sivaganga in 1772, they met with opposition from Indian warrior women. These women were a diverse group from different walks of life – royal household, rural areas, across all caste groups. Although many of their names and stories have not found a place in history, they have survived in local folklore, songs, bharathanatyam performances and have been immortalised as deities in the local temples.

Here is the story of three of these early female freedom fighters: Velu Nachiyar, Udaiyaal and Kuyili. As the earliest women to rise against the East India Company, their lives offer a glimpse into the beginnings of the anti-colonial movements, evoking an image of resilience and fortitude.

Rani Velu Nachiyar was a formidable Tamil Queen, who was both admired and vilified by the British for her valour and bravery in defending her kingdom. She was born in 1730 to the Raja and Rani of the Ramnad kingdom. Skilled in the art of warfare and weaponry, Velu Nachiyar was also a scholar, and mastered several languages including English, French and Urdu. At the age of 16, she married the prince of Sivaganga, Muthuvadugananthur Udaiyathevar. In 1750, Velu Nachiyar and...

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