Rani Abbakka Chowta was the first Tuluva Queen of Ullal, who fiercely resisted the Portuguese in the latter half of the 16th century. Her reign, spanning from 1525 to 1570, is celebrated for her unwavering courage and strategic brilliance in defending her kingdom against European colonialism. She is remembered as Abhaya Rani, the fearless queen, for repelling Portuguese attacks for over four decades.
Early Life and the Political Landscape
Born into the Chowta dynasty, a Tuluva dynasty ruling parts of coastal Karnataka, Abbakka ascended the throne of Ullal, a crucial port town serving as their subsidiary capital. While details of her early life remain scarce, it’s known that her uncle, King Thirumala Raya III, crowned her queen, following the matrilineal inheritance system of the Bunts community. He also ensured she received comprehensive training in warfare and military strategy, recognizing the looming threat of European expansion. To strengthen their position, Abbakka was married to Lakshmappa Arasa Bangaraja II, the king of the neighboring Banga principality, an alliance that would later turn sour.
The Portuguese, having seized Goa, set their sights on the lucrative spice trade routes along the Indian coast. Their attack on the South Kanara coast in 1525, which resulted in the destruction of the Mangalore port, marked the beginning of their aggressive expansion southwards. Ullal, a thriving hub for the spice trade with Arabia and the West, became a prime target for European powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British.
A Reign of Resistance
Abbakka’s reign was marked by a spirit of inclusivity and defiance. Her administration represented the diverse communities of her kingdom, with Jains, Hindus, and Muslims holding prominent positions. Her army was composed of individuals from various castes and sects, reflecting her belief in unity and meritocracy. Notably, she personally oversaw the construction of a dam at Malali, employing Beary men for their expertise in boulder work, and also integrated them into her naval force.
The Portuguese, frustrated by Abbakka’s refusal to pay tribute, resorted to military force. In 1555, they sent Admiral Dom Álvaro da Silveira to subdue her, but Abbakka’s forces successfully repelled the attack. The Portuguese, relentless in their pursuit, plundered Mangalore in 1557. In 1568, they launched another assault on Ullal, led by General João Peixoto. They managed to capture the city and infiltrate the royal court, but Abbakka, displaying her tactical acumen, escaped to a mosque. That very night, she rallied 200 soldiers and launched a daring counterattack, killing General Peixoto and taking 70 Portuguese soldiers captive, forcing the remaining forces to retreat. Abbakka’s forces continued to resist, even killing Admiral Mascarenhas and compelling the Portuguese to vacate the Mangalore fort.
Final Battles and Enduring Legacy
Despite Abbakka’s relentless resistance, the Portuguese recaptured Mangalore fort and Kundapur (Basrur). Exploiting her estranged husband’s desire for revenge, they enlisted his support in their attacks on Ullal. In 1570, seeking to create a united front against the Portuguese, Abbakka formed an alliance with the Bijapur Sultan of Ahmed Nagar and the Zamorin of Calicut. However, despite their combined efforts, they faced setbacks, including the death of the Zamorin’s general, Kutty Pokar Markar, who had successfully destroyed the Portuguese fort at Mangalore. Ultimately, betrayed by her husband and weakened by losses, Abbakka lost the war and was imprisoned. Even in captivity, her spirit remained unbroken. She revolted and died fighting for her freedom, solidifying her place in history as a symbol of unwavering resistance.
Rani Abbakka Chowta’s legacy lives on in the cultural memory of India. Her story is recounted through folk songs, Yakshagana performances, and Büta Kola rituals, portraying her as a compassionate and just ruler. She is celebrated as one of the earliest Indians to fight European colonialism and is often referred to as the ‘first woman freedom fighter of India’.
Commemorations of Rani Abbakka:
- Veera Rani Abbakka Utsava: An annual festival held in Ullal to honour her memory.
- Veera Rani Abbakka Prashasti Award: Bestowed upon distinguished women during the festival in recognition of their contributions.
- Indian postal department special cover: Issued in 2003 featuring Rani Abbakka.
- Bronze Statues: Erected in Ullal and Bangalore.
- Amar Chitra Katha Comic: “Rani Abbakka- The Queen who knew no fear”.
- ICGS Rani Abbakka: An Indian Coast Guard inshore patrol vessel commissioned in 2012.
- “Veera Rani Abbakka Utsava”: A festival celebrated annually in Ullal .
Rani Abbakka Chowta’s life serves as an inspiration for those fighting for freedom and justice. Her unwavering commitment to protecting her land and her people, her strategic brilliance, and her indomitable spirit continue to resonate across India and beyond.
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