2018 - Paika Bidroha Bi-Centenary | Commemorative Coin

The 4th commemorative coin of 2018 was released to mark the Bi-Centenary of Paika Bidroha.

Paika Bidroha, often hailed as one of the earliest organized armed uprisings against British rule in India, holds a distinguished place in the nation’s struggle for freedom. Originating in 1817 in the eastern state of Odisha, this rebellion was led by the valiant Paikas—traditional warrior militia who had long served the local chiefs and kings, particularly the Gajapati rulers of Khurda. Their deep-rooted martial ethos, combined with a strong sense of duty and pride in their land and culture, made them a formidable force.

The uprising emerged from a backdrop of political and economic injustice imposed by the British East India Company. After the fall of the Khurda Kingdom in 1803, foreign rule brought sweeping administrative changes, harsh revenue policies, and the erosion of traditional positions held by the Paikas. Their hereditary rights, land tenures, and livelihoods were threatened as the colonial administration sought to expand control and extract resources. It was against this environment of alienation and suffering that resistance took shape under the leadership of Bakshi Jagabandhu Bidyadhara Mahapatra, a respected commander of the Paika forces.

In early 1817, the Paikas launched a series of attacks against British establishments. Beginning with the burning of government buildings and revenue offices in Khurda, the rebellion quickly spread across the region. The uprising received support from local zamindars, tribal communities, peasants, and common citizens who shared the burden of British oppression. For months, the rebels challenged colonial authority through strategic strikes, guerrilla tactics, and widespread mobilization, demonstrating remarkable courage and unity.

Though the British eventually suppressed the revolt through superior firepower and reinforcements, the Paika Bidroha left an indelible mark on the collective memory of Odisha and India. It ignited a spirit of resistance that would later inspire larger national movements. The uprising also showcased the deep resentment against colonial exploitation long before the First War of Independence in 1857, leading many historians and scholars to recognize Paika Bidroha as a significant precursor to India’s freedom struggle.

Today, the bravery of Bakshi Jagabandhu and the Paika warriors is celebrated as a symbol of valor, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to justice. The legacy of Paika Bidroha endures in the cultural consciousness of Odisha, reminding the nation of the sacrifices made by countless unsung heroes who rose to defend their homeland. It stands as a powerful testament to India’s long and layered journey toward independence.

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