Abigail D'Mello

Kittur Rani Chennamma (1778–1829)

Apart of the series She is real. This is her story. She fought against colonial powers.

“Kittur Rani Chennamma, queen of the state of Kittur, led one of the earliest armed resistances against British colonial rule in India. After the British East India Company refused to recognize her adopted heir under the Doctrine of Lapse, Chennamma defied annexation efforts by leading a fierce rebellion in 1824. Her forces secured an initial victory at Kittur Fort, killing the British collector Thackeray, before betrayal and overwhelming reinforcements led to her capture and imprisonment.In this painting, Chennamma is portrayed drawing a jewel-adorned sword from its ornate sheath, symbolizing both the wealth of Kittur and the British desire to claim it. She stands guard over Kittur Fort, depicted at the top of the composition, while a winding path reflects the fortified strength of her kingdom. Elephants carrying female warriors descend the path, honouring the historic use of elephants as powerful symbols of battle and resistance. Fleeing British colonizers, represented in red, are shown running down the path in defeat, emphasizing her victory. The scenery and flattened perspective draw inspiration from Mughal miniature painting traditions. Beneath Chennamma’s feet lies a torn Doctrine of Lapse decree, a testament to her refusal to surrender sovereignty. Framing the scene, two mounted female warriors with raised swords embody the enduring spirit of rebellion that Chennamma ignited.”