Title : An analytical account on Betrayal and Self Betrayal in the Queen of Kittur: a critical study
Author: Dr. Arunkumar Gourav
University: : Gulbarga university Karnataka
ISSN :
Volume: 01 Issue: 02
Publication Year: Sept 2026
Abstract
The Queen of Kittoor portrays the heroism of Rani Channamma of Kittoor , who fought for the autonomy of the monarchy. In the annals of Indian history, Rani Channamma is the earliest Rani, who rebelled against the British rule before Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi. The unsung heroine of Karnataka has a tremendous place in the history of Colonial India. The novel portrays Rani Channamma’s effort in protecting the monarchy from the Peshwa’s, neighboring monarchys and the British. Ironically, she was betrayed by her own people. In spite of the heroic admiration of Rani Channamma, it is pertinent to study the themes of betrayal and self-betrayal to know the defeat and failure by the British. This paper is an attempt to focus on the themes of betrayal and self-betrayal.
Basavaraj Naykar’s The Queen of Kittoor portrays the colonial encounter between Rani Channamma and the British around 1824 for land and authority over monarchy. The patriotism of the natives and the shrewdness of the British are eloquently narrated. Although Rani Channamma succeeds in killing Mr. J.
M. Thackeray, the District Collector of Dharwar, in the first battle subsequently in the second battle she was betrayed by her own courtiers. She was defeated by the East India Company headed by Mr. Chapliin. The monarchy of Kittoor was captured by the British and she was imprisoned in the Fort in her own town, Bailahongala until her death.
Key Words: Colonial India, The Monarchy, Betrayal, Self-Betrayal, Jhansi
The Doctrine of Lapse:
A fight against the law of the Doctrine of Lapse, which was officially codified by Lord Dalhousie, was led by Rani Channamma. Between 1848 and 1856, the post of Governor General for the East India Company in India was held by Lord Dalhousie. Under this rule, the adoption of a child is not allowed for native rulers if no children of their own were born. Instead, their land was made part of the British Empire automatically, and power was given to the British Raj to take over Free states. In cases where a ruler died with no child, the right to rule the state was lapsed to the British Empire. To save the monarchy from the British, a child was adopted by the Rani, and the Doctrine of Lapse was openly defied.
Raja Mallasarja
Raja Mallasarja, a versatile king who is fond of Indian traditions, puranas, culture and rituals takes the hand of Channamma as his second wife. Rani Rudramma, his first wife being childless accepts Channamma. He is charitable, well acquainted in religious activities and worships Goddess Kariyamma. Raja learns about the company sarkars who are growing more powerful. He receives several messages from Desai’s to join fight against British. He visits the Monarchy of Kakati to take help from Dhulappagowda Desai. In the forest he meets Channamma, Desai’s daughter and falls in love with her. Thus, Kittoor Channamma was married to Mallasaija Desai, the king of Kittoor , during the age of 15 and became the queen of Kittoor . One son was born to her, who also died after the death of her husband. With the aim of making him the heir to the throne of Kittoor , Sivalingappa was adopted by her.
Raja Mallasarja helps British
The theme of betrayal is seen as one of the major themes in the historical novel The Queen of Kittoor . Raja Mallasarja was awakened to save his people from the British due to the clashes that were fought between the British and the local kings and Desai’s. As the monarchy was crossed by General Wellesley on his way to Pune, help was given to him by several natives. This was taken as an opportunity by Raja Mallasarja, and help was also offered to Lord Wellesley. When the border was approached by Lord Wellesley and his troops, he was met by Raja Mallasarja, Diwan Gurusiddhappa, and his military commander, and help was voluntarily promised to them. “The fort at Sangolli shall be given to you, where your ammunition may be kept. A few soldiers shall also be appointed to guard it. A very limited military power is held by me. Nonetheless, a hundred horses and a hundred-foot soldiers shall be spared by us” (30). A desire to provide help was further emphasized by the Raja so that, in turn, help and freedom from the Peshwas would be given to them. “A state of total independence is held by us, though a yearly fee of Rs. 60,000 has been paid to the Peshwas. However, our usual autonomy is still desired by our people. Help must be given to us by Your Excellency” (30). A hundred horses and a hundred native soldiers were sent by Raja Mallasarja to the camp of Lord Wellesley, and great joy was felt because the goodwill of the British authorities had been won. Thus, help was given to the British by the natives solely to seek freedom from the Peshwas.Not only is the conflict between the British and the natives portrayed by the novel, but the clash between the native rulers is also shown. The growing popularity of Raja Mallasarja is learned of by Bajirao Peshwa. A deep fear of Raja Mallasarja is felt by Bajirao Peshwa and a letter is written by him to Lord Wellesley to ask that Raja Mallasarja be dethroned and the autonomy of Kittoor be canceled. However, because help had been received from the Raja a reply is sent by Lord Wellesley stating that war will not be waged against Raja Mallasarja by the British. Later, the goodness of Raja Mallasarja is learned of by Bajirao. In Pune a meeting is held by both parties and an agreement is made that a yearly fee of Rs. 1,70,000 must be paid by Raja Mallasarja of Kittoor so that autonomy can be enjoyed. The documents were signed by both parties. In fact a victory over Tippu Sultan of Srirangapattana had been achieved by Bajirao with the help of Raja Mallasarja.
Self-Betrayal: Bajirao arrests Raja Mallasaija
Jealousy is aroused in Bajirao Peshwa by the growing fame of Raja Mallasarja in both near and far lands. Moreover, when Bajirao Peshwa visited Lord Kartikeswara, on the way Allappagowda Desai, who was frustrated with Raja Mallasarja for refusing to adopt his son for the monarchy of Kittoor poisoned the mind of Bajirao. Thus, Bajirao’s jealousy on Raja Mallasarja grew to such an extent to harm him. But Raja Mallasarja being innocent of Bajirao’s hatred towards him goes to meet him, but he hardly returns. Later they learn that Raja Mallasarja was imprisoned by the enemies. Guru siddhappa went in search of Raja, met Bajirao and they demanded to keep their army in Kittoor and bear all the expenses of its maintenance. He agreed to pay Rs. 1, 75,000 as revenue to Peshwa. Thus, Raja Mallasarja returns to Kittoor . However, his health slowly deteriorates and dies. He assures Sivalingurudrasarjato control the monarchy. Thus, RajaMallasarja’s life comes to a conclusion causing immense grief to Rani Channamma.
Self-Betrayal: Venkata rao and Mallappa shetty favour British
As Prince Sivalingurudrasarja was enthroned Venkata rao and Mallappa shetty impress upon young Raja. Thus, Raja Sivalingurudrasarja became intimate to them. Diwan Guru siddhappa observed this and informed Rani Channamma. Raja Sivalingurudrasarja being young fails to take the right decision and relied upon others. The King obtained a letter from Bajirao Peshwa seeking help to resist against the British in Belagavi by providing soldiers, horses, arms or food grains. A letter was also sent to him by His Excellency Elphinstone, the Governor, to ask for help with men and arms if a war with the Peshwas was fought. Thus, they received letters from both the sides. Mallappa shetty and Venkata rao favour to the British, because the Peshwas are their enemy. Rani Channamma sensed the situation and told that Britishers are the common enemies. So, helping Peshwas would be the right decision. But as a decision to help the British was supported by all the members of the court sp that the soldiers sent to Belagavi. A ride to Belagavi with their bags was made by the soldiers of Kittoor . The British army was joined by them under the leader named Brigadier-General T. Munro. The battle was started and it went on for nearly twenty days. A big help was given to the British army by the soldiers of Kittoor . At last, the Peshwas were beaten by the British. The Peshwa flag was pulled down and the Union Jack flag was put up on the big fort of Belagavi.
Thanks were given to the Raja of Kittoor by G T Munro, who was made very happy by the timely help. Thus, a win over the Peshwas was achieved by the British with help from Kittoor . The Peshwa land was taken over by the East India Company. The Peshwa King, Bajirao II, was arrested by them and kept as a prisoner. A yearly pay of Rs. 8,00,000 was fixed for him. In this way, all of the Peshwas were brought under the direct control of the British.Without the timely help that was given by the local rulers, the task of winning the Peshwa monarchy has been very tough for the British forces. Thus, a cruel and cunning path was used by the British to defeat the local kings and take over their lands.
Betrayal: British betray the Natives by denying freedom
On conquering the Peshwa monarchy the British invites the Raja of Kittoor to enter into a new agreement. Diwan Guru siddhappa asserted that they are independent and need not attend the meeting. Venkata Rao, differs and says they have to make fresh treaty. Mallappa shetty also agrees with him. Thus, they both go to Belagavi to meet Thomas Munro. They brought the documents which say an annual Rs. 1, 75, 000 should be paid. Also, Khanapur taluka should be given to the company sarkar. This act of betrayal was sensed only by Guru Sidddhappa and Rani Channamma. “What is this? Our freedom has not been won at all by us. Only our masters have been changed. Can a life of complete independence not be lived by us? Why should Khanapur be given up to the British? If such a meeting could have been attended by me, these terms and conditions never has been agreed to”is stated by the Rani. Sivalingaradrasarja being young and inexperienced becomes a victim in the hands of Mallappa shetty and Venkata Rao.
Betrayal: Thackeray poisons Raja Sivalingarudrasarja
As the people complain of animals are available in the forest of Balagunda Huliyakattala then the king thought it was his duty and went to the forest. He saw Thackeray in the forest who has come for hunting. Raja was thirsty; Thackery thought this was an ideal time to kill Raja. “He opened the lid, dropped a couple of poisonous pills and shook it properly. The gullible Raja watched everything innocently. Then Thackeray handed over the vessel of milk to the Raja, who took it and quaffed it at one go. Thackeray sat watching him curiously”. Raja lost consciousness by drinking the milk given by Thackeray. Thackeray was happy to execute his plan successfully. Thus, the British betrayed the native rulers although they sought help from them. On the next day people found Raja in a semi-conscious state and lost the power of speech. Meanwhile Diwan Guru siddhappa advises to adopt a boy. Out of courtesy, a visit to Kittoor was made by Thackeray, the district collector of Dharwar. He says, “Please get well, soon”. He sends British physician. Who says, “You see, I can give medicine for the temporary relief, that’s all. I don’t think I can cure him of it completely as I suspect that it has reached an advanced stage now. It is a bit too late to control it now” (90). Raja Sivalingaradrasarja tests the boys and adopts Sivalingappa, who was enthroned. Slowly Raja’s health deteriorates and dies. Rani Channamma addresses her people that as Sawai Mallasarja II is young, hence she would guide him.
First Battle
Rani sends a message to Thackeray informing the adoption. Thackeray refuses to accept and claims Kittoor to be under their control. He goes to Kittoor with 500 soldiers to capture the Kittoor . He seizes the treasury of Kittoor . He said that all the hearts were sealed with additional locks. He says to Mallappa shetty “From today I have appointed you and Venkata rao as the supervisors of the monarchy of Kittoor . And Mr. Venkata rao will be your counterpart from our side. You must see that the treasury is guarded properly.” Thackeray seizes the treasury as he does not wants to approve the adoption claiming which is illegal. He writes to his officer mentioning the treasury and the safety of it. He has taken Mallappa shetty into confidence. The British officers dismissed Sardar Guru siddhappa as Diwan. Thackeray has appointed Mallappa shetty and Venkata rao as the joint managers of the monarchy. Thackeray has posted his own guards near the western gate inside the fort. Rani calls Avaradi Virappa and enquires the strength of the army. She tells him to be ready for the war at any time. The spirit of self-confidence and determination is spread by the Rani to her people. Thus, she inculcates love for mother land. The native commander with five blacksmith goes near the treasury and broke the locks. Thus, they drew the soldiers away from the spot. During the Navaratri festival celebrations, the rituals, traditions, and customs of Indian life were practiced. Thackeray plans to conquer the Rani of Kittoor . Thackeray sent Mr. Stavenson and Mr. Ellliot to Kittoor and ask for the bond of the treasury. The soldiers of Kittoor fought against them and arrested them. Rani was kind hearted, generous and hospitable towards the enemies. She let them free and gave them food, shelter and comforts. Thackeray was pleased by the gesture of Rani. However, a peaceful surrender of the monarchy to the company is demanded by him. and be satisfied with an inam of eleven villages. Rani refuses to do so. Thackeray plans to attack Kittoor , therefore, Rani also makes preparations. She instills courage, confidence and will power among the people to win against the crown. They killed Thackeray. People celebrated the victory against the British. It appeared as if people were celebrating Diwali. Ellliot and Stavenson who are arrested are taken care in Kittoor .
Second Battle
Great shock was felt by Chapllin, the Commissioner of the Deccan at Pune, when the news of Thackeray’s death was heard. The post of acting Political Agent, with headquarters at Belagavi, was then given to Mr. R. Eden by him. The soldiers of Kittoor were planned to attack the at Dharwar. Mr. R. Eden reached Belagavi and studies all the activities. Rani was not reconciled by the British. Captain Chapliin was a politician. Then he plans to defeat Rani by taking the favourism of the natives. “All right, Mr. Sivabasappa, you help us secretly to defeat your Rani. Then we shall definitely give the right kind of reward” (233). Thus, Sivabasappa felt elated about the future and favours British. The generosity and kind heartedness of Rani is shown by the releasing Mr. Ellliot and Stavenson because of the promise made by Mr. Chapliin to stop the war. Mr. Chapliin was very joyful to see them. Mr. Chapliin directed information letter to Mr. Newman on the developments of the place. After the release the native men thought they would retrieve their autonomy. But Mr Chapliin asked the natives to surrender. Thus, the Britishers betrayed the natives. Rani was shocked after knwng the cunningness of the British.
In her words, Mr Chapliin seems to be a treacherous fellow. Yesterday only he had promised that all hostility would be stopped if we released the prisoners. We all took him on his word. But this morning he has gone back on them. This is sheer treachery and shamelessness (243). Mr. Chapliin took a letter from Rani but not paid a small importance because Mr. Ellliot and Stavenson are released. Therefore, he had not consider Rani’s letter for freedom. Mr. Chapliin admired the courage and strength of Rani. He was empowered by Governor Elphinstone to declare martial law. When it was bring to the kindness of Rani, she roared like a lioness, “My countrymen, there is no chances or ways out for any of us now. Our choice is only between freedom and heroic death on the battlefield. There is no time for us to tarry” Both the armies rushed at each other. Many soldiers were shot. They pierced the soldiers of Kittoor with their bayonets and fire their guns at them thereby causing a number of deaths and wounds... As the fighting continued more numbers of soldiers of both the armies fell and the battlefield was strewn with count dead bodies. Throughout the day, shelling continued between both the parties. The sipayees of Kittoor died large in number. The British soldiers triumphed with joy of victory. A fight with bravery never seen before was put up by the soldiers of Kittoor and many Company soldiers were hacked to death by them. As sun descended most of the sipayees of kittor lost their ultimate lives. The soldiers of Kittoor loose the battle because of self betrayal. Sivalingappa was also arrested by the British.
Self Betrayal: The canons are adulterated by the natives
The self betrayal is the main reason for the defeat. The canons could not fire because the gunpowder has been adulterated with cowdung and grains of millet. Guru siddhappa reports to Rani, “How shall I tell you, Rani Sarkar? Cow dung and grains of millet were mixed into the gunpowder by our own people. Out cannons have, therefore, been silenced forever. I do not know what to do”.
The cannons of Kittoor remained unused because of the gun powder. Everybody including Rani wanted to protect the fort. Outside the fort, a stand was made by Colonel Deacon with his army right in front of the main gate. The wall of Kittur could not be broken by anything, because it was made out of hard and red granite stones. Even the gates were made of strong wood and steel and cannot be broken easily.
Surrender of Rani:
Rani learnt that that Kittoor was completely surrounded by the large army of the East India company. She safeguarded the young Rani Veeravva and was ready for any eventuality. It was sensed by the queen that the downfall of the land was drawing near. When the main doors of the fort were broken by the British soldiers, Guru siddhappa requested Rani to escape from that place. But Rani stood courageously and fearless to move, she was ready to face the danger. The inner room of the fort was entered by the Company soldiers, and great joy was felt by them to see the queen Channamma and her daughter-in-law Rani Veeravva . There is a unlimited joy for Col. Deacon and remaining officers. They hand over everything. Mr. Chapliin writes a letter on his victorious victory over Rani Channamma. Colonel Deacon comes and arrests them. Mr. Chapliin was happy to know the details of Kittoor property and wealth. Rani endured the sufferings and she consoled other women folk. The britishers got signatures from Rani on many documents. The britishers granted eleven villages for her livelihood and necessary staff to take care. The royal women were arrested in Bailahongala.
Punishment for Native Betrayal. Mr. Sivabasappa, visits Mr. Chapliin and narrates his talent in tampering of the gunpowder with cowsdung and millet powder and made it dysfunctional and expects a reward. Mr. Chapliin considers him to be undeserving and orders to kill him. Thus, the company betrays the persons who render help to them.
Five years in Jail:
Although Rani Channamma lacked nothing in the jail, the agony of having lost the prestigious monarchy could not be forgotten so easily. Rani Channamma engaged herself in religious austerities in order to forget the agony of her soul. She engaged herself in the worship of Ishtalinga. Rani Janakibai became a widow quite early, but with the support of her mother-in-law she sustained. But gradually she became lean, reclined on her bed and died. With this death Rani senses emptiness in life. Rani Veeravva was about 18 years old and she was spirited like Rani Channamma.
Self Betrayal: Rani Veeravva poisoned by native
Rani Veeravva learns that a fresh rebellion against the government is starting. Hence she secretly supports them by sending gold and money. The Company officers on knowing this immediately shifted Rani Veeravva to the fort of Kusugal. Rani decreased the daily food intake, the Collector of Dharwar shifted her to her relative, Mr. Happalisetti. Rani felt better amidst her relatives. She spent her days in daily puja. She was not allowed to meet any native of Kittoor . The company authorities feared that her presence was a legal threat to the government. The Collector calls Mr. Happalisetti and enquires about Rani Veeravva , and entrusts a confidential job to finish Rani Veeravva . Mr. Happalisetti is threatened he has no choice to refuse. Thus, he becomes an instrument of self betrayal. Within a couple of days, he consulted a private hakim and bought a poisonous herb. He asked his wife secretly to grind the herbal root and mix it with gravy every day and serve it to Rani Veeravva . His wife who was greedy by nature and who dreamt of having a big sum of money from the Company officers began to manage it very systematically. Even while offering the poisoned gravy with rice to Rani Veeravva , she would talk sweetly and humour her
(302). There were no well wishers who would detect Mr. Setti. Everybody pretended to be worried of her health. Within a fortnight Rani Veeravva breathed her last. The death of Rani Veeravva shocked Rani Channamma. She suspected some foul play. She stopped taking food and water. Soon Rani Channamma dies. 5 years in the fort of Bailahongala.
Conclusion
To conclude, the novel illustrates how self betrayal plays a vital role for Rani Channamma’s defeat in the battle. In the name of expanding the territory the British sought help from the natives and in turn betrayed them. The natives being naive, innocent and unaware of the cruel minded British render help to them only to be betrayed. The British Officers lured the natives only to defeat Rani Chenamma. Raja Mallasarja helps the British and is betrayed by the natives. Raja Sivalingurudrasarja was betrayed by Mr. Thackeray. Thus, the theme of betrayal runs parallel to the theme of self betrayal. Sivalingappa was betrayed by natives and killed in the battle. Rani Veeravva was poisoned by her relative. On conquering the British demolished the fort to erase the memories of Rani Channamma. Thus, the British executed their power on natives, and in fact every native who helped the British was hacked to death.
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