**Tipu Sultan: The Tiger of Mysore**

Tipu Sultan (1751–1799) was one of the most powerful rulers and military leaders in Indian history. Known as the "Tiger of Mysore," he was the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore and a staunch opponent of British colonial expansion in South India during the late eighteenth century. Tipu Sultan became a symbol of resistance against imperialism, combining military innovation, administrative reforms, and a strong sense of sovereignty.Tipu Sultan was born on November 20, 1751, in Devanahalli, near present-day Bengaluru. He was the son of Hyder Ali, a brilliant soldier who rose from humble beginnings to become the de facto ruler of Mysore. From a young age, Tipu received a rigorous education. He was trained in the art of warfare, statecraft, diplomacy, and languages, including Persian, Arabic, Kannada, and Urdu. His upbringing reflected Hyder Ali's ambition to create a modern and powerful state that could challenge the European powers.Tipu Sultan entered military life at a young age and quickly demonstrated exceptional leadership and courage. He fought alongside his father in numerous campaigns against neighboring states and the British East India Company. Following Hyder Ali's death in 1782, Tipu Sultan ascended to the throne of Mysore. His coronation marked the beginning of a determined effort to defend Mysore's independence and modernize its institutions.One of Tipu Sultan's most notable characteristics was his resistance to British colonial ambitions. He fought four major wars against the British, known as the Anglo-Mysore Wars. The Second Anglo-Mysore War (1780–1784) was particularly significant, as Tipu Sultan achieved several victories and forced the British to sign the Treaty of Mangalore, one of the few treaties in which the British agreed to return conquered territories. This success enhanced Tipu's reputation as a capable and fearless leader.

Tipu Sultan was also a pioneer in military technology. He is credited with developing and effectively using iron-cased rockets, which were far more advanced than the European rockets of the time. These rockets inflicted considerable damage and confusion among British troops and later inspired the development of modern rocket technology in Europe. Tipu also modernized his army by introducing new training methods, uniforms, and weapons, and forged alliances with foreign powers such as France and the Ottoman Empire to counter British influence.Beyond warfare, Tipu Sultan was a skilled and reformist administrator. He implemented land revenue reforms to protect farmers from exploitation and increase agricultural production. He promoted the cultivation of cash crops such as silk, spices, and sugarcane, and fostered trade both within and outside India. Tipu established state-owned factories and improved infrastructure, including roads and irrigation systems. His economic policies aimed to make Mysore self-sufficient and prosperous.Tipu Sultan was deeply influenced by his religious beliefs and ruled as a devout Muslim, but his administration included people of diverse faiths. He appointed Hindus to high positions, supported temples with grants, and adopted a pragmatic approach to governance. However, his religious policies remain a subject of historical debate, with interpretations varying depending on regional and political contexts.Tipu Sultan also valued education and culture. He encouraged the study of science, mathematics, and literature, and maintained a well-stocked library. He issued coins, calendars, and official documents bearing distinctive symbols, including the tiger emblem, which became deeply associated with his identity. His court reflected a blend of Indian and Islamic traditions, along with European influences.

The Third and Fourth Anglo-Mysore Wars proved disastrous for Tipu Sultan. In 1792, after the Third Anglo-Mysore War, he was forced to cede a large portion of his territory to the British and surrender his two sons as hostages. Despite this setback, Tipu did not give up. He rebuilt his army and continued to seek alliances against the British.The final confrontation came in 1799 during the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War. British forces, supported by their Indian allies, besieged Tipu Sultan's capital, Srirangapatnam. On May 4, 1799, Tipu Sultan was killed defending his city. He chose to die on the battlefield rather than surrender, a decision that immortalized him as a symbol of bravery and resistance.Tipu Sultan's death marked the end of Mysore as an independent power, but his legacy endured. He is remembered as one of the early Indian rulers who challenged British imperialism with determination and foresight. For many, he is a national hero who fought for sovereignty, innovation, and self-respect. Tipu Sultan's story continues to inspire people even today.