Topic: The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country.
1. Tipu Sultan was the fearless “Tiger of Mysore”, a powerful bulwark against colonialism, and a great son of Karnataka. Comment on how should the historical figure of Tipu Sultan be assessed today. (250 words)
Reference: The Hindu
Why this question:
Last year, there was a controversy over the issue of lessons pertaining to Tipu Sultan. A committee had been set up by the department to study the possibility of dropping lessons on the Mysuru ruler, following a demand by a section of BJP leaders. The committee, however, had overruled this and said it was impossible to study history of Mysuru without highlighting Tipu’s role.
Key demand of the question:
One must discuss in detail the contributions of Tipu Sultan towards India’s freedom struggle and its significance. Further one must also asses as to how should one see the historical figures in today’s times.
Directive:
Comment– here we have to express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion there upon.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin with brief write up on Tipu Sultan and the current controversy of adding topics about Tipu in academic syllabus.
Body:
Explain in detail the contributions of Tipu Sultan in various fields during his short reign of 17 years.
Provide the significance of the same during the times.
Further one must discuss as to how the historical figures must be not be viewed through multi-layered personality through the prism of morality or religion.
Conclusion:
Conclude with how it is not necessary that historical figures be judged only in terms of either a hero or a tyrant.
