Kittur Vijayotsava

October 23, 2024

A commemorative postage stamp on the 200 years of Kittur Utsav, the celebration for Rani Channamma winning war against British army in 1824 :

Issued by India

Issued on Oct 23, 2024

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue Commemorative Postage Stamp on 200 years of Kittur Vijayotsava and salutes the legacy of Queen Channamma and her steadfast commitment to freedom.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Sh. Brahm Prakash

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 303850

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About :

Kittur, formerly known as ‘Geejaganahalli’ became renowned as the seat of power for the Kittur kings between 1585 and 1824 A.D. The principality was founded by brothers Hiremalla Shetty and Chikkamalla Shetty, who were gifted the Kittur area by Adilshahi, the king of Bijapur, in recognition of their valor and service.
Initially, the capital was located in Sampagaon, and Kittur was governed by 12 notable kings, with Allappagouda Desai, Mudimallappagouda Desai, and Mallasarja Desai being the most prominent. Under Allappagouda’s rule, Kittur’s fort and palace were constructed, establishing it as a significant center.
King Mallasarja (1782-1816 A.D.) brought great fame to Kittur. However, his achievements drew the envy of Baji Rao II, the Peshwa of Pune, who conspired to detain him, leading to Mallasarja’s untimely death in 1816. Queen Channamma, his second wife, took on the reins of administration after the death of Shivalinga Rudrasarja, the last king.
The Struggle Against British Rule
- The British began to interfere in Kittur’s administration after Shivalinga’s death in 1824. Collector Thackeray’s rude conduct and seizure of the treasury sparked Queen Channamma’s defiance. On October 23, 1824, in a historic battle, her forces defeated the British, resulting in Thackeray’s death at the hands of Amatur Balappa, a brave bodyguard.
- However, following negotiations that failed, the British launched a massive attack on Kittur on December 3, 1824. After three days of fierce fighting, the Kittur army was betrayed and ultimately defeated. Queen Channamma was captured and imprisoned at Bailahongal Fort, where she passed away on February 2, 1829. Her indomitable spirit and resistance made her a pioneering figure in India’s struggle for independence, earning her the title “Pole Star of Indian Independence.”
Legacy of Resistance
- Even after her defeat, Queen Channamma’s legacy inspired further uprisings. Loyalists like Sangolli Rayanna led significant rebellions against British rule. Despite facing severe reprisals, including executions, their efforts showcased the undying patriotism and courage that characterized Kittur’s fight for freedom.
Kittur Palace and Monuments
- The Kittur Fort and Palace, built between 1660 and 1691 A.D. during Allappagouda Desai’s reign, are architectural marvels, although the British later demolished much of the palace. Today, the ruins provide a glimpse into its grandeur, featuring guest rooms, a Darbar hall, and unique water supply systems, including copper pipes and stone tanks.
Text : Referenced from content provided by Proponent.