Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Rani Velu Nachiyar on her birth anniversary on Saturday, honouring her as one of India’s bravest and most visionary rulers. He praised her courage, sacrifice, and leadership, which continue to motivate generations.
Taking to the social media platform X, the Prime Minister said, “Tributes to Rani Velu Nachiyar on her birth anniversary. She is remembered as one of India’s most valiant warriors who embodied courage and tactical mastery.” He added that her resistance against colonial oppression, commitment to good governance, and pride in India’s culture remain an enduring inspiration.
Tributes to Rani Velu Nachiyar on her birth anniversary. She is remembered as one of India’s most valiant warriors who embodied courage and tactical mastery. She rose against colonial oppression and asserted the right of Indians govern themselves. Her commitment to good…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 3, 2026
Born on January 3, 1730, in Ramanathapuram, Velu Nachiyar was the only child of Raja Chellamuthu Vijayaragunatha Sethupathy.
With no male heir, she received training typically reserved for princes, including archery, horse riding, weaponry, and martial arts such as Silambam and Valari.
She also became a distinguished scholar, mastering Tamil, English, French, and Urdu, which later aided her diplomatic and military strategies.
At 16, she married Muthuvaduganathaperiya Udaiyathevar, ruler of Sivaganga, and had a daughter, Vellachi.
In 1772, the British East India Company, allied with the Nawab of Arcot’s son, invaded Sivaganga, killing her husband in the Kalaiyar Koil war.
Struggle and Triumph
Velu Nachiyar spent eight years in exile, building alliances with leaders such as Hyder Ali of Mysore.
She raised a formidable army that included a dedicated women’s battalion, named ‘Udaiyaal’ in honour of her adopted daughter, who sacrificed her life in combat.
In 1780, she recaptured Sivaganga, becoming the first Indian queen to defeat the British East India Company, nearly seven decades before the 1857 uprising.
She subsequently focused on governance, later passing power to her daughter while continuing as a mentor. Rani Velu Nachiyar passed away on 25 December 1796 at the age of 66.
Her life remains a symbol of courage, resistance, and visionary leadership, representing India’s early fight against colonial rule and the indomitable spirit of its women warriors.
Also Read: PM Modi, Leaders Honour Savitribai Phule On Birth Anniversary
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