Reforms In Modern Travancore : Contributions Of Regent Rani Gouri Lakshmi Bai

Abstract

Travancore a distinguished Native or Princely State in India was a Hindu feudal state (1729-1949) formerly, under control of powerful Travancore Royal family. They were one of the oldest ruling Dynasties in India, including sovereign kings and even women regents. They ruled from the capital city of Padmanabhapuram and later from Thiruvananthapuram one of the oldest and earliest cities in India which was shifted during the time of Dharma raja. It had a long tradition as a royal centre with its prosperity besides which it was also a great Centre of education.  The periods of Gouri Lakshmi Bai (1810-1814) deals with the four years of Travancore history which constituted a silent reformation in Travancore. Gouri Lakshmi Bai was the first women ruler of Travancore and showed great resourcefulness in the administration of the state. Taking into account the great strides made by the state during her time. By a Royal Proclamation in 1812 5^th November, Her Highness Maharani Gouri Lakshmi Bayi, abolished the purchase and sale of all slaves and granted them independence excepting those attached to the soil for agricultural purposes. Her period witnessed many reforms and progress.