Rani Abbakka Chowta resisted Portuguese expansion and refused tribute to protect Ullal's independence
GS1History · Society · Geography· Ancient & medieval India· Prelims·
Why in news
The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts highlighted Rani Abbakka Chowta's 16th-century resistance against Portuguese expansion and her refusal to pay tribute to protect Ullal's independence.
Background
Rani Abbakka Chowta of Ullal resisted Portuguese expansion led by Admiral Dom Álvaro da Silveira in the 16th century. Following a 1568 counterattack, she was captured due to internal betrayal. In 2009, the Indian Coast Guard named a vessel in her honor.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceUllal: The kingdom defended by Rani Abbakka Chowta against Portuguese expansion.
- PostAdmiral Dom Álvaro da Silveira: The Portuguese leader who led the expansion against Ullal.
- Fact1568: The year of the counterattack leading to the capture of Rani Abbakka Chowta.
- BodyIndian Coast Guard: Named a vessel after Rani Abbakka Chowta in 2009.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the role of regional resistance movements in thwarting colonial expansion during the early modern period in India.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Asymmetric warfare: Use of local geography and maritime knowledge to counter superior European naval technology
- Sovereignty vs. Tribute: The ideological conflict between indigenous autonomy and colonial demands for vassalage
Keywords: colonial resistance · maritime history · sovereignty · regional leadership · Portuguese expansion
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