Freedom Fighters · Unsung Heroes
U Tirot Sing
died 1835
Khasi chief who led a four-year war against British expansion into the hills of Meghalaya.
U Tirot Sing, Syiem (chief) of Nongkhlaw in the Khasi Hills, resisted British plans to build a road through Khasi territory. The Anglo-Khasi War of 1829–1833 followed. He was captured and died in British custody in Dhaka in 1835.
Early life and background
Little is reliably recorded about Tirot Sing’s early life. He was the Syiem of Nongkhlaw, one of the Khasi states, in the 1820s.
Historical context
After the First Anglo-Burmese War, the British sought a road connecting the Brahmaputra valley with Sylhet through the Khasi Hills. Tirot Sing initially agreed, but relations broke down as the British presence grew.
Key achievements
In 1829 Khasi forces attacked the British at Nongkhlaw. Tirot Sing led a guerrilla war in the hills for about four years, using the terrain against a better-armed opponent.
Important events and milestones
- 1820s British seek to build a road through Khasi territory.
- April 1829 Khasi forces attack the British at Nongkhlaw; war begins.
- 1829–1833 Guerrilla resistance in the Khasi Hills.
- January 1833 Captured and taken to Dhaka.
- 17 July 1835 Dies in British custody in Dhaka.
Awards and honours
India Post issued a stamp in his honour in 1988. 17 July is a public holiday in Meghalaya.
His sacrifice
Tirot Sing was captured in 1833 and imprisoned in Dhaka, where he died on 17 July 1835.
Enduring legacy
He is one of the most revered figures in Meghalaya and an important reminder that resistance to colonial expansion took place across every region of India.
References
Portrait: India Post commemorative stamp, 1988 · Post of India · GODL-India · Source (opens in a new tab) · Licence terms (opens in a new tab)
This account is compiled from the sources listed and is offered as a tribute, not as an official record. Corrections are welcome at connect@vedacloud.ai.