The Most Admired Karnataka Queen Belawadi Mallamma: Role and Legacy.

Queen Belawadi Mallamma is historically recognized as a heroic 17th-century warrior queen from Karnataka who successfully led an all-women military force and defended her kingdom against Maratha expansion Early Military Training: Born in 1624 in Sode, Mallamma trained in archery, fencing, and horse riding alongside her male peers. Origin of Conflict: The battle began after Maratha troops plundered cattle from a village in Bewails and Resistance. Her husband, King Ishaprabhu, was killed during the 15-day conflict. Mallamma then took command. Women’s Regiment. She led a dedicated force of thousands of female soldiers in combat Chivalric Resolution. Impressed by her extreme valour and leadership, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj treated her with high respect, asked for forgiveness for his soldiers' actions, and restored her kingdom. Would you like to know more about the tactics of her women's army or the recent historical discoveries related to her period? Belawadi Mallamma's life has been commemorated in art, literature, and oral traditions. Statues and memorials in Karnataka honour her contributions, and she remains a symbol of regional pride. A finely carved black granite slab, three feet high and two and a half feet wide, holds a unique sculpture that narrates a compelling story of bravery and compassion. The top of the slab is semicircular, divided into two sections. The upper section portrays Shivaji Maharaj astride a horse, dressed in traditional Maratha attire a long coat with a waistband a distinct headgear. In his right hand, he wields a sword, while his left holds a shield. Attendants in Maratha costume accompany him, carrying royal insignias such as umbrellas and staffs. A dog is also depicted walking alongside the group, adding a touch of realism to the scene. The bottom panel offers a more intimate depiction. Shivaji is shown holding a bowl and feeding milk to Mallamma's infant child, who sits on his lap. Mallamma, standing nearby, is portrayed with a bow and arrow, her sari tightly draped in the Kannadiga ‘Veerakachche’ style, symbolizing her readiness for combat. The panel includes inscriptions in Kannada at the top, though they are now illegible. The Kannadigas were high-spirited souls of courage and energy. They valued freedom more than their lives and would not reconcile themselves to a life of humiliation. Thus, Karnataka history is full of thrilling stories of the exemplary sacrifices of brave women. High ideals inspired them to dedicate their lives to the service of the people. Many achieved distinctions in literary, social and spiritual fields, and their achievements in administration and war constitute a proud heritage of Karnataka. It is noted that not only men, but also women have also played a significant role in retaining their freedom by fighting against their enemies. The women of Karnataka have played significant role in freedom movement, even before the British to protect their kingdoms and territories. These women were from the royal families of rulers. Almost of them were queens and fought the battle so as to protect their motherland. Few of such queen brave warriors include Rani Chennamma of Kittur in Belgaum district, Abbakka, Queen of Ullal Kingdom of South Kanara, Rani Chennamma and Rani Veeramma of Keladi dynasty and Belwadi Mallamma of Swadi dynasty of Belgaum district. But rarely historical records are available to show their bravery and battles. Of these brave women, Belwadi Mallamma has significant place as she fought battle against Maratha Emperor, Chhatraprati Shivaji. After this Mallamma became legendary Queen of Karnataka.

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