News– Recently, Former Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik called the omission of the Paika Rebellion from NCERT’s Class VIII book a “huge dishonour.” NCERT said it will be included in the second volume, out by Sept-Oct.
About Paika Rebellion
- It was a significant armed uprising against British colonial rule that erupted in 1817 in the eastern province of Khurda (present-day Odisha).
- It was led by the Paikas, traditional warrior-militia of Odisha, under the leadership of Bakshi Jagabandhu.
- The rebellion predated the Revolt of 1857, making it one of the earliest indigenous revolts against the East India Company.
Who were the Paikas?
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Background: origins of discontent
- In 1803, the British East India Company annexed Odisha after defeating the Marathas.
- An agreement was signed with Mukunda Deva II, the King of Khurda, promising monetary compensation and return of four parganas.
- When the British reneged on the deal, Jayee Rajguru, the royal advisor, led 2,000 Paikas to protest but was captured and executed in 1806.
Causes of the rebellion
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| Social and Cultural Causes |
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The 1817 Rebellion: Key events
In March 1817, about 400 Kondh tribal fighters marched from Ghumusar towards Khurda.
They joined forces with the Paikas, led by Bakshi Jagabandhu, the former military commander of Khurda.
The rebels attacked the Banpur police station, burning it down.
They killed British officials and looted government treasuries.
British response and suppression
The British responded with strong military force, bombing rebel bases.
The Paikas were scattered and defeated.
Bakshi Jagabandhu escaped into the forests and stayed hidden until 1825.
Consequences and impact
The rebellion was eventually crushed by the British.
Jagabandhu surrendered under amnesty and died in 1829.
Though militarily unsuccessful, the revolt became a powerful symbol of resistance and is considered Odisha’s first war of independence.
