Tipu Sultan (1751–1799), the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore, is often remembered for his valiant resistance against the British East India Company. However, his reign is also marred by reports of religious persecution, forced conversions, temple destructions, and harsh military tactics. While some historians celebrate him as a freedom fighter and a pioneer in rocketry warfare, others highlight his oppressive rule, particularly towards Hindus, Christians, and Kodavas.
This article presents a detailed exploration of Tipu Sultan’s rule, his treatment of Hindus and other communities, and his military strategies based on historical accounts and references.
1. Tipu Sultan’s Persecution of Hindus and Other Communities
While Tipu Sultan styled himself as a just ruler, several historical sources document forced conversions, destruction of Hindu temples, and brutal treatment of Hindus, Christians, and other groups. Below are key references and historical events related to these allegations.
1.1 Atrocities Against the Kodavas (Coorgs)
One of the worst documented acts of persecution was against the Kodava people of Coorg (present-day Karnataka).
In 1785, Tipu launched a brutal military campaign in Coorg.
Thousands of Kodavas (Coorgis) were captured and forcibly taken to Srirangapatna, his capital.
According to British historian Lewis Rice in Mysore and Coorg (1878), Tipu ordered mass conversions of Kodavas to Islam. Historical estimates suggest that 60,000 to 85,000 Kodavas were taken as prisoners, many of whom never returned.
Primary Source Reference:
Mysore and Coorg by Lewis Rice
History of Mysore by Mark Wilks
1.2 Persecution of Hindus in Malabar
The Malabar region (modern-day Kerala) faced some of the most severe religious persecution under Tipu Sultan. He launched multiple invasions, targeting Hindu communities, particularly the Nairs and Brahmins.
William Logan, in his Malabar Manual, describes how Tipu’s forces destroyed Hindu temples and forced large-scale conversions.
Many Hindus fled to Travancore, where they sought asylum under the local rulers.
A letter written by Tipu to Runmust Khan, his military officer, dated 1788, explicitly orders mass conversions in Malabar:
"Over 12,000 Hindus were converted to Islam in Coorg. More conversions are needed. Hindus must not be allowed to survive in our kingdom."
Primary Source Reference:
Malabar Manual by William Logan
Historical Sketches of South India by Mark Wilks
1.3 The Captivity of Nairs and Their Forced Conversion
Another example of Tipu Sultan’s persecution was the mass capture of Nairs (a Hindu warrior community in Kerala). Historical records document the forced conversion of thousands of Nairs.
Francis Buchanan, a British officer, recorded that over 30,000 Nairs were captured and deported to Mysore.
Many were forcibly circumcised and converted to Islam.
Those who resisted faced execution or exile.
Primary Source Reference:
A Journey from Madras through the Countries of Mysore, Canara, and Malabar by Francis Buchanan (1807)
1.4 The Destruction of Hindu Temples
Several Hindu temples were reportedly destroyed or desecrated during Tipu’s reign.
Examples of Temples Destroyed:
Taliparamba Rajarajeshwara Temple (Kerala)
Thrichambaram Krishna Temple (Kerala)
Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple (Srirangapatna) – Partially looted
Padinalkanadu Temples in Coorg
The Sringeri Mutt Letters, discovered in the 20th century, provide strong evidence of Tipu’s temple destruction. These letters show that the Shankaracharya of Sringeri Mutt pleaded with Tipu Sultan to stop attacking temples, highlighting the extensive temple desecration.
Primary Source Reference:
Sringeri Mutt Archives (Letters from the Shankaracharya to Tipu Sultan)
1.5 The Persecution of Christians (Mangalorean Catholics)
In 1784, Tipu Sultan targeted Mangalorean Catholics.
Over 60,000 Christians were captured and deported to Srirangapatna.
Many were forced to convert, and those who resisted were brutally tortured.
The captivity lasted 15 years, and only a few survived to return home.
Primary Source Reference:
The Captivity of Mangalorean Catholics at Seringapatam (Historical records)
2. Tipu Sultan’s Military Strategies and Deceptive Tactics
Tipu Sultan was known for his innovative yet ruthless military strategies. Some of his methods involved psychological warfare, betrayal of allies, and the use of advanced weaponry.
2.1 Use of Rockets and Psychological Warfare
Tipu Sultan is credited with developing Mysorean rockets, one of the earliest forms of metal-cased rocket artillery.
He employed these rockets against the British in the Anglo-Mysore Wars.
The Fathul Mujahidin, a military manual written under Tipu’s orders in 1783, outlines his strategy for using rockets to create terror in enemy ranks.
Primary Source Reference:
Fathul Mujahidin (1783)
2.2 Betrayal and Surrender of His Sons
During the Third Anglo-Mysore War (1792), Tipu Sultan suffered a major defeat.
He surrendered his own sons to the British as hostages to negotiate peace.
Some historians view this as a diplomatic maneuver, while others see it as a desperate betrayal.
Primary Source Reference:
History of India by James Mill
2.3 Attacks on Allies and Secret Agreements
Tipu Sultan betrayed Hindu rulers who initially allied with him.
In 1789, he violated a treaty with Travancore and launched an unprovoked attack.
Primary Source Reference:
Mysore and Coorg by Lewis Rice
3. Legacy and Controversies
Tipu Sultan’s legacy remains one of the most contested topics in Indian history. While he is celebrated for his resistance against the British, historical records highlight his acts of religious persecution.
Conflicting Perspectives:
Pro-Tipu View: Some historians, particularly modern scholars, argue that Tipu was a secular ruler who patronized Hindu temples and was merely protecting his kingdom.
Anti-Tipu View: Many historical records, particularly British and regional sources, highlight his forced conversions, temple destruction, and persecution of Hindus and Christians.
Conclusion
The historical evidence suggests that Tipu Sultan was a skilled but ruthless ruler who employed religious persecution, mass conversions, and deception in warfare. While he played a crucial role in resisting British colonialism, his actions against Hindus, Christians, and other communities cannot be overlooked.
