Resisting colonial and feudal oppression: the Bhil revolts in British Raj Rajasthan and their impact on India's freedom movement

Abstract

This research paper examines the significant yet often overlooked revolts of the Bhil tribe in Rajasthan during the British Raj, focusing on their resistance against colonial and feudal oppression from the early 19th to the early twentieth century. The Bhils, an indigenous tribal community, faced severe encroachments on their traditional rights, autonomy, and livelihoods due to British colonial policies and exploitative practices by Rajput feudal lords. Through an in-depth analysis of key events such as the Bhil revolts in Udaipur State (1818, 1881–1882) and insurrections in Banswara, the study highlights these uprisings as powerful manifestations of resistance by oppressed groups against systemic marginalization. The paper also explores how these tribal revolts influenced and inspired broader movements within India's struggle for independence. © The Author(s) 2025.