Explore the Poligars' Revolt of 1795-1805, a significant resistance movement in South India against British rule. Learn about key figures like Kattabomman Nayakan, the phases of rebellion, and the eventual suppression of the uprising.

Poligars’ Revolt (1795-1805): Resistance Against the British East India Company

• The poligars (or palayakkarargal) of South India resisted the British between 1795 and 1805.
• Main centres of the uprisings included Tinneveli (or Thirunelveli), Ramanathapuram, Sivaganga, Sivagiri, Madurai, and North Arcot.
• The conflict began in 1781 when the Nawab of Arcot handed over control of Tinneveli and the Carnatic Provinces to the East India Company, causing resentment among the poligars.

Initial Revolt and Key Figures in the Poligars’ Uprising

• Kattabomman Nayakan of Panjalankurichi led the insurrection between 1795 and 1799.
• After a fierce battle where Veerapandiya Kattabomman defeated the Company forces, a price was put on his head, leading to greater rebellion.
• With reinforcements, the Company forces eventually defeated Kattabomman, who fled into the Pudukottai forests.
• Betrayal by Ettappan, the Raja of Pudukottai, led to Kattabomman's capture and execution.

Second Phase of Rebellion: Poligar Resistance

• In February 1801, poligars imprisoned in Palamcotta escaped and captured several forts including Tuticorin.
• The rebellion was led by Oomathurai, Kattabomman's brother, and was joined by the ‘Marudus’ led by Marathu Pandian.
• The rebellion was suppressed by October 1801, and the fort of Panjalankurichi was destroyed.

Later Rebellions and Outcome of the Poligars’ Revolt

• Between 1803 and 1805, the poligars of North Arcot rose in rebellion over the deprivation of their right to collect kaval fees.
• The rebellion was led by the poligar of Yedaragunta and the dispossessed poligar of Charagallu.
• The rebels were suppressed by February 1805, with some chiefs residing in Madras and others granted an allowance.
• The revolt spread over a vast area of South India, with the rebels seeking independence from alien rule.