Explore the resistance of Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja against British rule between 1797 and 1805. Learn about his guerilla warfare tactics, the conflict with the British, and his legacy as the 'Lion of Kerala.'

Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja, remembered as the Kerala Simham (Lion of Kerala), led one of the earliest resistances against British colonial rule between 1793–1805. Known for his guerilla warfare tactics and peasant uprisings, he challenged both Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan, and later the British. His story is vital for students of modern Indian history as a symbol of early anti-colonial resistance.

Resistance of Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja (1793–1805): Early Life, Struggles, and Legacy

• Introduction to Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja

  Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja, popularly called Kerala Simham and ‘Pyche Raja’, was the de facto ruler of Kottayam (Cotiote) in the Malabar region.

  • (i) Resisted Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan before confronting the British.
  • (ii) His leadership spanned critical years between 1793–1805.
  • (iii) Emerged as a defender of peasant rights and regional independence.

• Conflict with the British: Disputes and Uprisings (1793)

  The Third Anglo-Mysore War (1790–92) brought Kottayam under English paramountcy, sparking local unrest under Pazhassi Raja.

  • Causes of Conflict

    • (i) Earlier treaty of 1790 had recognised Kottayam’s independence.
    • (ii) Vira Varma, uncle of Pazhassi Raja, installed as ruler by the British.
    • (iii) Excessive revenue demands imposed by the Company.

  • Peasants’ Uprising of 1793

    • (a) Heavy taxation led to mass discontent among peasants.
    • (b) Pazhassi Raja emerged as the leader of this resistance.
    • (c) The uprising symbolized the defense of agrarian rights.

• Guerilla Warfare and Peace Treaty (1797–1800)

  Pazhassi Raja effectively used guerilla warfare to resist British forces, forcing a temporary peace treaty in 1797.

  • Renewed Conflict in Wayanad (1800)

    • (i) Dispute over Wayanad reignited hostilities in 1800.
    • (ii) Pazhassi Raja raised a strong army of Nairs.
    • (iii) Support came from Mappilas and Pathans, including ex-soldiers of Tipu Sultan.

• Death and Legacy of Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja (1805)

  In November 1805, Pazhassi Raja fell in a gunfight at Mavila Todu near the present Kerala-Karnataka border, marking the end of his rebellion.

  • (i) Remembered as the Lion of Kerala for his courage and leadership.
  • (ii) Became a symbol of early resistance against colonial oppression.
  • (iii) His struggle influenced later nationalist uprisings in southern India.

• Summary of Pazhassi Raja’s Resistance

  Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja (the Kerala Simham) resisted Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan, and the British between 1793–1805 through peasants’ uprisings and guerilla warfare. His leadership of agrarian resistance and martyrdom at Mavila Todu (1805) made him a lasting symbol of anti-colonial struggle, highly relevant for students studying early Indian nationalism.