Consider the following statements regarding the Kundara Proclamation of 1809: 1. It was issued by Velu Thampi Dalawa, the Dewan of Travancore, calling upon the populace to wage an armed rebellion against British East India Company hegemony. 2. The proclamation successfully secured permanent military backing from the Zamorin and the French naval forces at Mahe. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Statement 1 is correct because the Kundara Proclamation of January 11, 1809, was a passionate rallying cry issued by Velu Thampi urging Malayalis to resist British financial exploitation and military dictation. Statement 2 is incorrect because neither the Zamorin nor the French provided military assistance, leaving Travancore isolated against superior British forces. Velu Thampi's martyrdom remains an inspiring symbol of early anti-colonial resistance in Kerala history.