Who Planted the Tree of Liberty in Mysore?

Mysore, a state located in the southern part of India, is known for its rich culture, heritage, and history. However, one event that stands out in the history of Mysore, and is even celebrated every year as a national holiday, is the planting of the Tree of Liberty. The question that arises is, who planted this tree?

The Backdrop

The history of Mysore is deeply intertwined with the British Empire. In 1799, the British East India Company captured the capital of Mysore, Srirangapatna, and the region subsequently came under British rule. This rule lasted until 1947, when India gained independence.

During this period, the British implemented several policies that were detrimental to the local population. For example, the British levied heavy taxes on the farmers and confiscated their lands. Farmers were also forced to grow cash crops instead of food crops, which resulted in famine and starvation.

The Planting of the Tree

It was during this time that a young man named Diwan Poornaiah came to power. He was a visionary who believed in democracy and liberty. Poornaiah was appointed as the Diwan (prime minister) of Mysore in 1802, and he immediately set about implementing policies that would benefit the people of Mysore.

One of Poornaiah's most famous acts was the planting of the Tree of Liberty. The tree was planted in 1805 in front of the Lalitha Mahal Palace in Mysore. The tree was a symbol of democracy, liberty, and freedom. The people of Mysore were encouraged to gather around the tree and voice their opinions and grievances.

The Legacy

The tree became a rallying point for the people of Mysore. They came together to discuss their problems and find solutions. The tree was a symbol of hope and a beacon of light for the people of Mysore during a dark period in their history.

Today, the Tree of Liberty is still standing in Mysore, and it is celebrated every year on January 1st as the Mysore Insurrection Day. It is a reminder of the struggle for democracy and liberty, and of the sacrifices made by the people of Mysore to secure their freedom.

In Conclusion

The planting of the Tree of Liberty in Mysore was a pivotal moment in the history of the region. It was an act of defiance against the oppressive policies of the British Empire, and a symbol of the people's yearning for democracy and liberty. Today, the tree stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the people of Mysore, and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and freedom.