Faculty of Art

Drawing and Painting

Abigail D'Mello

Rani Velu Nachiyar (1730–1796)

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

“Rani Velu Nachiyar, the queen of Sivaganga, stands as a symbol of fierce resistance against colonial oppression. Recognized as the first Indian queen to wage war against the British East India Company, Velu Nachiyar led a successful campaign to reclaim her kingdom in 1780 after years of exile and strategic alliance-building.In this painting, Velu Nachiyar stands guarding the Swarna Kaaleeswarar Temple, wielding a valari, an ancient iron weapon that became a powerful symbol of Indian resistance. The Mughal-inspired arch blended with South Indian temple columns frames the scene, emphasizing the fusion of cultural identities. Flanking her are Kuyili, her fearless general who sacrificed herself to destroy the British ammunition depot, and Udaiyal, a woman martyred for protecting Velu’s cause. Together, they embody loyalty, courage, and the often-overlooked strength of women in warfare. In the background, the defining moment of battle unfolds as the British ammunition depot goes up in flames, while blue flames at the base of the painting burning at their hottest and most intense embody the unstoppable power of Velu and her warriors At the base of the pillars, two female archers fire arrows at fleeing British soldiers, reinforcing the vision of an empowered female army. ”