Rani Velu Nachiyar

Early life and background

The only daughter of the ruler of Ramanathad (Ramanathapuram), Velu Nachiyar was trained in arms and horsemanship and is recorded as having learned several languages. She married Muthu Vaduganatha Periyavudaya Thevar, the ruler of Sivaganga.

Historical context

In the second half of the eighteenth century the East India Company, allied with the Nawab of Arcot, extended its control over the small kingdoms and chiefdoms of southern Tamil country.

Key achievements

Her husband was killed in 1772 at Kalaiyar Kovil in an attack by Company and Nawab forces. Velu Nachiyar escaped with her daughter and lived under the protection of Gopala Nayakar at Virupachi. She formed alliances, including with Hyder Ali, and with the help of commanders including the Marudhu brothers recovered Sivaganga in 1780.

Important events and milestones

• 1772 Her husband killed at Kalaiyar Kovil; she escapes.
• 1772–1780 In refuge, she builds alliances and an army.
• 1780 Recovers Sivaganga and becomes its ruler.
• 25 December 1796 Dies.

Awards and honours

India Post issued a commemorative stamp in 2008. Tamil Nadu has built a memorial to her at Sivaganga.

Later life

Velu Nachiyar ruled Sivaganga after its recovery and later handed authority to her daughter and the Marudhu brothers. She died in 1796.

Enduring legacy

She is remembered as one of the first rulers in India to wage a successful war against the East India Company. Tamil tradition also honours her commander Kuyili, though details of Kuyili’s story come largely from oral tradition.