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Key Points

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin paid homage to Dheeran Chinnamalai on his 220th death anniversary. The freedom fighter was a Kongu Nadu chieftain who resisted British rule after Tipu Sultan's fall. Chinnamalai led key battles in the Polygar Wars using guerrilla tactics. He was eventually captured and executed by the British in 1805.

Key Points: Tamil Nadu CM Stalin Honors Freedom Fighter Dheeran Chinnamalai on 220th Death Anniversary

  • Dheeran Chinnamalai fought British forces in the Second Polygar War
  • He allied with Tipu Sultan before resisting colonial rule
  • Used guerrilla warfare in battles across Tamil Nadu
  • Executed by British in 1805 at Sankagiri Fort
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Tamil Nadu CM Stalin pays tribute to freedom fighter Dheeran Chinnamalai on his 220th death anniversary

MK Stalin pays tribute to Kongu Nadu chieftain Dheeran Chinnamalai, a key figure in the Polygar Wars against British rule.

"He deployed guerrilla tactics and led the fight against British forces – Historical records"

Chennai, August 3

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin paid tribute to freedom fighter Dheeran Chinnamalai on his 220th death anniversary at Guindy in Chennai on Sunday. The Chief Minister offered flowers to the portrait of the freedom fighter in Chennai.

Dheeran Chinnamalai was born as Theerthagiri Sarkarai Manradiar on April 17, 1756. He was a Palayakkarar and chieftain who ruled the Kongu Nadu region.

Chinnamalai fought against the Kingdom of Mysore, which collected taxes in the Kongu region. However, later, he joined hands with Tipu Sultan and waged wars against the British East India Company.

After the demise of Tipu Sultan and Kattabomman, Chinnamalai became a prominent commander in the Second Polygar War in 1801. The Polygar Wars were fought between the Polygars of the former Tirunelveli Kingdom in Tamil Nadu and the forces of the British East India Company between March 1799 to May 1802 and in July 1805.

He deployed guerrilla tactics and also led the line during the war in 1801 at Cauvery, in 1802 at Odanilai and in 1804 at Arachalur. But in 1805, the British forces defeated his army and he managed to escape.

However, Chinnamalai was later captured by the British forces. On August 2, 1805, he was hanged to death at Sankagiri Fort along with his two brothers.

According to some sources, he was hanged earlier, on July 31 of the same year.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
While I appreciate the tribute, I wish politicians would do more than just ceremonial gestures. Why not establish scholarships or youth programs in Chinnamalai's name? That would be a real tribute to his legacy.
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Arjun K
The guerrilla tactics used by Chinnamalai were way ahead of his time! Our history books don't give enough credit to these regional warriors. The Polygar Wars deserve as much attention as the 1857 revolt. #UnsungHeroes
S
Sarah B
As someone new to Indian history, I'm fascinated by how complex the resistance against British rule was. The alliance between Chinnamalai and Tipu Sultan shows how regional differences were set aside for the greater cause. More such stories need to be told!
K
Karthik V
Interesting how history remembers these warriors differently across regions. In Karnataka, we learn more about Tipu Sultan while Tamil Nadu focuses on Chinnamalai. We need a unified Indian narrative of our freedom struggle!
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Nisha Z
My grandfather used to tell stories about Chinnamalai's bravery when I was a child. So happy to see his legacy being honored after 220 years! These are the real heroes who shaped our nation's destiny. 💪

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