Pallur Eman facts for kids

Pallur Eman (also known as Poligar Eman or Pulior Eman) was an important leader from the Nayar community in southern Wayanad, a region in north-east Kerala, India. He lived during a time when the British East India Company, a powerful trading company that also ruled parts of India, was trying to control more land. Eman played a key role in the Cotiote War (1793–1806). This was a big fight between a local ruler named Pazhassi Raja and the British.

In 1799, Eman first worked with the British. But by 1802, he secretly started helping Pazhassi Raja, who was his main leader. This meant Eman was a "double agent," working for both sides without one side knowing he was helping the other.

Eman's Secret Role

The British thought Eman was a very important and wealthy man. In 1799, they hired him as an advisor, paying him 200 rupees each year. Eman even stayed with famous British general Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington. In 1801, Eman's help led the British to capture a place called Periya.

Around 1801 and 1802, Pazhassi Raja faced many difficulties. One of his trusted commanders, Pazhayamviden Chandu, turned against him and helped the British. As the British hunted Pazhassi, he and his men kept fighting back. During this time, Eman continued to secretly support Pazhassi. Eman's older brother, Pallur Rayrappan Nayar, also helped Pazhassi until the British arrested him in 1806.

Eman is Discovered and Escapes

In 1802, the British captured a fort in Panamaram. This is when they found out that Eman was secretly helping Pazhassi. Eman quickly fled to join Pazhassi Raja. The British were so determined to catch him that they offered a large reward of 1,000 pagodas (a type of old coin) for his capture.

Eman was very good at convincing others. He managed to get the Mullukurumba, a strong warrior tribe, to join Pazhassi's side and fight against the British.

Attack on the Jail

On March 23, 1802, Eman led about 1,000 rebels. They marched through the Thamarasseri Defile towards Calicut. There, they attacked and took over a sub-jail. The jail had 250 guards, who were either captured or killed. The rebels stole weapons and supplies. Many of the prisoners who were freed decided to join Eman's group. After this attack, McLeod, a British official in charge of Malabar, resigned from his position.

Eman continued to fight the British. Pazhassi Raja died in November 1805, and his nephew took over the leadership. Eman was eventually captured by the British in 1806.

Life in Prison and Exile

After his capture, Eman was put on trial in Seringapatam. He was first sentenced to death, but his punishment was later changed to life in prison. Around 1807, Eman and his brother were sent far away to Prince of Wales Island (which is now called Penang Island). This was a form of exile, meaning they were forced to live away from their homeland.

Some of the other rebels were released in late 1819, but Eman was not. The British believed that if he returned home, he would cause more trouble and unrest. Pallur Eman died on Prince of Wales Island in 1820.

See also

• Cotiote War