HOW TN CHRONICLED THE UNSUNG HEROES OF FREEDOM STRUGGLE

Two books published by state govt in 1973 and 2023 record contributions of Tamils to Independence movement

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TAMIL NADU, part of the erstwhile Madras presidency under British rule, was among the first to feel the grip of colonial rule when it started to expand across India. While the 1857 revolt that happened in the northern part of India is considered to be the first war of Indian independence, Tamil Nadu had already witnessed significant uprisings by that time, including the 1806 Vellore Mutiny, the first large-scale revolt of sepoys against the British.

The resistance against British rule in Tamil Nadu, however, began much earlier-in 1755, when figures like Puli Thevar spearheaded the revolt of the Palayakarars in the southern part of the state.

When reflecting on TN's struggle for independence, people usually remember figures like Puli Thevar, Velu Nachiyar and Kattabomman during the early period of resistance, while leaders such as VO Chidambaram Pillai, Subramania Bharathi, C Rajagopalachari and K Kamaraj are remembered for their contributions during the later stages of the independence movement.

However, as we celebrate 78 years of independence, it is important to remember that the fight for freedom was not won by leaders alone but by millions of unsung heroes whose names and efforts have largely gone unrecognised.

Recording the contributions of these individuals has proven challenging due to their vast numbers and the scarcity of records, many of which have been damaged over time.