The only woman in history to confront, fight and repeatedly defeat the Portuguese, Rani Abbakka’s unflagging courage and indomitable spirit are at par with the legendary Rani Laxmi Bai of Jhansi, Rani Rudramma Devi of Warangal and Rani Chennamma of Kittur. Yet, little is written about Rani Abbakka or her incredible story in the history books.

    In this edition of GV, we are pleased to share the untold story of Rani Abbakka, the valiant queen of Ullal and Tulu Nadu.

Rani Abbakka, the valiant queen of Ullal and Tulu Nadu.

     Rani Abbakka Chowta was the first Tuluva Queen of Ullal who fought the Portuguese in the latter half of the 16th century. She belonged to the Chowta dynasty who ruled over parts of coastal Karnataka (Tulu Nadu), India.

Early life

   The Chowtas followed the system of matrilineal inheritance by which Tirumala Raya, Abbakka’s uncle, crowned her the....