Paika Rebellion
The Paika Rebellion of 1817 is yet often overlooked episode in India’s struggle against British colonial rule. Recently, the exclusion of this rebellion from the first volume of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) Class VIII history textbook sparked controversy in Odisha. The NCERT clarified that the rebellion will be included in the second volume due later in 2025. This event marks the importance of regional uprisings in India’s freedom movement and the political sensitivity surrounding historical narratives in Odisha.
Who Were the Paikas?
The Paikas were hereditary military retainers under the Gajapati rulers of Odisha since the 16th century. They served as foot soldiers and were granted rent-free land called nish-kar jagirs. During peacetime, they cultivated these lands. The Paikas held a distinct social and military status and were very important in local defence and administration.
British Annexation and Loss of Privileges
In 1803, the British East India Company annexed Odisha after Colonel Harcourt’s campaign. The Company failed to honour agreements made with local rulers, leading to the dethronement of the king of Khurda and the arrest of Jayee Rajguru, a key custodian. The British also imposed new land revenue systems and currency changes. These policies stripped the Paikas of their rent-free lands and economic security, forcing many to lose land to absentee landlords.
Causes of the Rebellion
The rebellion was fuelled by economic hardship and loss of traditional privileges. British control over salt and increased taxation burdened peasants and tribal communities. The Paikas, deprived of their land and status, along with tribal Kondhs, united in armed resistance. The rebellion was a response to the disruption of social and economic structures by colonial policies.
The 1817 Uprising
In March 1817, about 400 Kondhs and a large force of Paikas, led by Bakshi Jagabandhu, attacked British establishments. They targeted police stations, government offices, and treasuries. The revolt spread across Odisha with fierce battles. Despite initial successes, the British forces suppressed the rebellion. Bakshi Jagabandhu evaded capture until 1825, when he surrendered under negotiated terms.
Political and Cultural Significance
The Paika Rebellion is regarded as one of the earliest armed uprisings against British rule in India. Odisha’s regional parties and political leaders have invoked it to assert Odia identity and sub-nationalism. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) sought recognition of the rebellion as the first war of independence. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) also commemorates the Paikas to strengthen political support in Odisha. Memorials and academies dedicated to the Paikas have been established to honour their legacy.
Contemporary Educational Debate
The exclusion of the Paika Rebellion from the initial NCERT textbook volume caused public outcry in Odisha. The NCERT clarified that the rebellion would feature in the second volume due for release in late 2025. This episode reflects the challenges of balancing national and regional histories in educational curricula. It also marks how history education can influence political narratives and regional pride.
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