Amar Chitra Katha Vol. 741 Tipu Sultan : Kannada

Tipu Sultan remains one of the most contentious figures in Indian history. Some revere him as a fearless warrior who fought valiantly for his honor and his country, while others portray him as a ruthless and intolerant ruler. However, recent research suggests that Tipu Sultan was more often the victim of injustice than a perpetrator of it. As historian B.S. Gidwani notes, Tipu was the only ruler in the eighteenth century who steadfastly refused to ally with the English in any conflict against his fellow countrymen.

Had Tipu succeeded in forging a united front with the support of the Nizam and the Marathas, the British might not have found it so easy to establish their dominance over India. The fall of Tipu Sultan marked a significant turning point, paving the way for British supremacy. Even Nana Phadnavis, one of Tipu’s staunchest adversaries, recognized the critical role he played. Upon Tipu’s demise, Phadnavis grimly predicted, “Tipu is finished; Poona will now be the next victim. Evil days are ahead. There seems to be no escape from destiny.”

Tipu Sultan's complex legacy highlights the nuanced nature of historical narratives, showing how his resistance against colonial powers and his efforts to unite Indian rulers against a common enemy were ultimately pivotal in the broader context of India's struggle against British rule.