Why this matters now
Alluri Sitarama Raju is tested for the Rampa Rebellion (1922-24), the impact of forest laws on tribal livelihoods, and his place among the “tribal Bhagat Singhs”. The Government of India’s Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav released a commemorative postage stamp on his 125th birth anniversary in 2022.
Background: 1882 Madras Forest Act + Podu cultivation
The Madras Forest Act 1882 declared the hill tracts of the Eastern Ghats — Visakhapatnam Agency, Godavari Agency, East Godavari hills — as “Reserved Forests”. Podu (shifting) cultivation was banned. Tribes — Koya, Konda Dora, Manne Dora — were forced into wage labour for the Godavari valley road and railway projects, often without pay (begar).
The Rampa Rebellion (Aug 1922 — May 1924)
From 22 August 1922, Raju led tribal bands in coordinated raids on police outposts at Chintapalli, Krishnadevipeta and Rajavommangi, looting arms and supplies. The British called in Assam Rifles, Malabar Special Police and the 2nd Battalion of the Madras Pioneers; railways and bridges were ambushed. The rebellion held the Eastern Ghats for 22 months.
Capture and execution (May 1924)
British Major Goodall captured Raju at Mampa village (Krishnadevipeta) in May 1924 and shot him dead, ending the rebellion. He was 27. Modern recognition includes Andhra Pradesh’s celebration of 4 July as his birth anniversary, the 2022 commemorative stamp, and the SS Rajamouli film “RRR” (2022) fictionalising his story.
UPSC angle
Know Alluri Sitarama Raju — “Manyam Veerudu”, Rampa Rebellion (Aug 1922 - May 1924) in Eastern Ghats Vizag/Godavari agencies, against Madras Forest Act 1882 and begar, raided Chintapalli/Krishnadevipeta/Rajavommangi police stations, captured and shot dead by Major Goodall at Mampa village May 1924, 125th birth anniversary commemorative stamp 2022.
Frequently asked questions
What was the Rampa Rebellion?
An armed tribal uprising in the Eastern Ghats hill tracts of Andhra Pradesh from August 1922 to May 1924, led by Alluri Sitarama Raju.
Why is Alluri Sitarama Raju called Manyam Veerudu?
“Manyam Veerudu” means “Hero of the Jungle” in Telugu — the title given by the Koya and Konda Dora tribes for whom he fought.
Which law did the Rampa Rebellion oppose?
The Madras Forest Act of 1882, which banned podu (shifting) cultivation and pushed tribes into bonded labour.
When was Alluri Sitarama Raju killed?
In May 1924 by British Major Goodall, who shot him at Mampa village near Krishnadevipeta.