Reclaim Legacy of Tipu Sultan’s Era: Dinesh Amin Mattu

Reclaim Legacy of Tipu Sultan’s Era: Dinesh Amin Mattu

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Apr 26, 2026: Senior journalist Dinesh Amin Mattu on Saturday said that Tipu Sultan, who ruled large parts of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, was an able administrator and a remarkable figure who fought the British by establishing links with France despite the lack of modern technology.

Speaking after releasing the book “Karavali Charitreyalli Hyder Ali mattu Tipu Sultan” on Saturday, authored by journalist Naveen Soorinje and published by Nava Karnataka Publications at a programme organised by Abhimata in Mangaluru, Mattu said Karnataka’s prominence had spread widely during Tipu’s reign and called for reclaiming that legacy.

He described the book as a distinctive work that goes beyond a conventional account of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, offering a deeper interpretation of history. Alleging that the Sangh Parivar criticises Tipu on communal grounds, he said the BJP has been portraying him negatively as part of its political agenda. He also cautioned against attempts to appropriate historical and social icons such as Basavanna, Ambedkar, Narayana Guru, Koti-Chennaya and Kuvempu for political purposes.

Mattu maintained that Tipu Sultan contributed significantly to both Hindus and Muslims, and expressed concern that even communities that benefited from his rule hesitate to acknowledge his role as a pro-people administrator and freedom fighter. Criticising right-wing groups, he said those who did not participate in the freedom struggle but supported the British are now targeting Tipu. “They may create politicians, but they cannot create historians,” he remarked, alleging that scholars and thinkers are often targeted and history distorted when such groups come to power. He called for collective efforts by secular-minded sections to resist such attempts and build a harmonious society.

Assistant Professor Syed Barkat K A said Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan ruled for only 38 years and did not wage wars on religious grounds. He noted that some actions may have appeared aggressive as part of diplomatic strategies. Highlighting Tipu’s socio-economic contributions, he said the ruler introduced the concept that “the tiller is the owner of the land,” and added that his legacy remains relevant. He also pointed out that Tipu Sultan’s image appears in the original copy of the Constitution of India signed by members of the Constituent Assembly.

The event was presided over by writer and thinker Krishnappa Konchadi. Social activist Vidya Dinakar and poet Wilson Katil also spoke. The author Naveen Soorinje was present.