BJP Honors Velu Nachiyar: A Tribute to Tamil Nadu's Warrior Queen

The BJP is hosting an event to commemorate Velu Nachiyar, the first woman ruler to wage war against British colonial forces, with a theatrical tribute and an e-coffee table book. The initiative, partly in response to opposition challenges, extends the party's influence in Tamil Nadu.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced a commemorative event to pay tribute to Velu Nachiyar, the famed queen from Sivaganga, Tamil Nadu, celebrated as the first woman ruler to rebel against British colonial rule. The event is slated for March 29.

This initiative is part of the BJP's broader campaign to honor significant figures from diverse regions across India. The event, organized by the party's 'Mahila Morcha', will feature a theatrical tribute along with the launch of an e-coffee table book dedicated to Velu Nachiyar. Prominent leaders like Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta are expected to attend.

The celebration of Nachiyar, originating from Tamil Nadu, is also seen as a strategic outreach by the BJP amidst rising tension with the state's ruling DMK, which opposes the party's perceived efforts to promote Hindi. Tamil Nadu's assembly elections, scheduled for early next year, add further significance to this event. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also praised Nachiyar's legacy as a pioneer in the struggle against colonial rule.

(With inputs from agencies.)