Remembering the Defeat of Dutch Forces: 284 Years Since the Battle of Colachel

The Madras Regiment marked the 284th anniversary of the Battle of Colachel, where King Marthanda Varma's forces defeated the Dutch East India Company in an amphibious battle in 1741. The victory is notable as the first recorded instance of an Indian force overcoming a European power.

The Indian Army's Madras Regiment celebrated the 284th anniversary of the Battle of Colachel on Thursday. This historic battle, fought on July 31, 1741, saw the forces of Travancore, led by King Marthanda Varma, defeat the well-armed Dutch East India Company in an amphibious conflict.

The battle took place about 68 km south of present-day Thiruvananthapuram in what is now Tamil Nadu. It marks the first victory of an Indian force over a European power, securing a unique place in Asian military history.

The commemorative event held at the Colachel War Memorial was attended by military officers, dignitaries, and local residents. Highlights included a public weapons display and a wreath-laying ceremony led by Colonel Avinash Kumar Singh.

(With inputs from agencies.)