Over the past decade, Tipu Sultan, the 18th-century ruler of Mysore has remained a lightning rod of political and social controversy in Karnataka. From government-backed celebrations to heated public protests, his legacy continues to divide communities and fuel ideological clashes.
This report compiles 11 key incidents between 2015 and 2025 where individuals, institutions, or political parties glorified Tipu Sultan, sparking debate over his historical image as either a “freedom fighter” or a “religious aggressor.”
#1 IUML Urges Karnataka Congress to Hold Grand Tipu Jayanti – 5 November 2025
The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) urged the Karnataka Congress government to organise a grand Tipu Jayanti celebration on 10 November 2025, accusing it of neglecting the event for two consecutive years. IUML leader C. Abdul Rahiman called Tipu Sultan a “patriot” and alleged the government was erasing his contributions from textbooks. He warned that Congress leaders should resign if the event was not held, reigniting political tensions over the former Mysore ruler’s divisive legacy.
#2 Minister Mahadevappa Credits Tipu Sultan for KRS Dam Foundation – 4 August 2025
Karnataka Social Welfare Minister H.C. Mahadevappa claimed that Tipu Sultan, not Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, had laid the foundation of the Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) Dam. Speaking on Wadiyar’s death anniversary, Mahadevappa argued that an inscription at the dam’s main gate supported his claim. He also credited Tipu with abolishing the Devadasi system, resisting land monopolies, promoting trade hubs like Gubbi and Harihara, and introducing sericulture to India.
#3 Protests Erupt After Tipu Portrait Garlanded With Footwear – 31 January 2025
A portrait of Tipu Sultan was found garlanded with footwear in Sirwar town, triggering large-scale protests by members of the Muslim community. Demonstrators blocked roads and set tyres ablaze, demanding swift arrests. Police registered an FIR and promised action within 24 hours.
#4 Mysuru Hosts Joint Kannada Rajyotsava and Tipu Jayanti Event – 11 November 2023
The Tipu Kannada Rajyotsava Vedike hosted a joint celebration of Kannada Rajyotsava and Tipu Jayanti at Milan Function Hall. The event featured patriotic songs and dances, with speakers praising Tipu Sultan’s “courage and resistance” against the British. Former MLA Tanveer Sait and local leaders lauded Tipu’s contributions to Karnataka’s identity. The program concluded with a symbolic parade of participants dressed as Tipu Sultan.
#5 AIMIM Granted Permission to Celebrate Tipu Jayanti – 10 November 2022
The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) received permission from the Hubballi municipal corporation to hold a Tipu Jayanti celebration at the Eidgah Grounds. The mayor clarified that while the venue could host cultural events, large-scale gatherings with “big leaders” would not be allowed.
#6 Panel Recommends Retaining Tipu Sultan Chapter in Textbooks – 27 May 2022
A review committee appointed by the Karnataka government recommended retaining the Tipu Sultan chapter in school textbooks (Classes 6–10). The panel advised correcting factual errors and maintaining a “neutral tone” while also adding sections on other regional rulers.
#7 Protests Erupt Over State-Sponsored Tipu Jayanti Celebration – 12 April 2022
The Congress-led Karnataka government’s decision to observe Tipu Sultan’s birth anniversary triggered statewide protests. Demonstrations erupted in Kodagu, Bengaluru, and Mysuru, forcing the authorities to impose Section 144 and deploy heavy police forces. The government described Tipu as a “freedom fighter,” while opponents accused it of “communal appeasement.”
#8 Citizens Celebrate Tipu Jayanti Despite Government Ban – 11 November 2019
Despite the state government’s refusal to officially observe Tipu Sultan Jayanti, thousands of citizens in Mandya and nearby districts held independent celebrations. Local organisers claimed Tipu deserved recognition for fighting the British, while critics argued the event whitewashed his atrocities against Hindus and Kodavas. Police monitored the gatherings, but no violence was reported.
#9 Tipu Jayanti Celebrated Under Tight Security – 10 November 2018
Under the Congress–JD(S) coalition government, Karnataka officially celebrated Tipu Jayanti amid massive security arrangements. Prohibitory orders were imposed in sensitive districts like Kodagu, where anti-Tipu protests were anticipated. Both pro- and anti-Tipu processions were banned.
#10 Udupi District Administration Marks Tipu Jayanti – 10 November 2015
The Udupi District Administration, in coordination with the Minority Welfare Department, officially celebrated Tipu Sultan Jayanti. The event featured speeches extolling Tipu’s rule and cultural performances highlighting his “progressive reforms.” Unlike previous years marked by protests, the 2015 event proceeded peacefully.
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