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Tiger: The Life Of Tipu Sultan
Tipu Sultan was the most feared Indian of his time. To the British he was a cruel tyrant, but to his subjects he was a wise and just king.
From his daring military exploits to his practice of recording his dreams, this book cuts through the myths to bring this enigmatic and controversial ruler and his times vividly to life.
From his daring military exploits to his practice of recording his dreams, this book cuts through the myths to bring this enigmatic and controversial ruler and his times vividly to life.
188 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 30 reviews
September 18, 2020
I was expecting to read a comprehensive account of the life and conquests of Tipu Sultan, however the book was lacking in the same. A few events have been picked out and described, which in no way do justice to the eventful life of the warrior-King. In fact, the Wikipedia article on Tipu is more insightful than this book. Although Tipu’s religious policies have been mentioned, the economic reforms, his penchant for scientific gadgets, forced religious conversions and other less illustrious of his pursuits have been completely ignored. The tyrannical attributes of his rule have been glossed over. This is more of a cursory glance rather than a biography.
December 2, 2019
Extremely short book . The writer doesnt even cover the major events in the life of tipu sultan in detail . Not worth the retail price .
August 23, 2020
Concisely and accurately depicted, this book goes on to describe the life of Tipu Sultan; the man, the lover, the soldier, the king. Although it's not a vivid detail, but enough to know about his persona. It speaks of those who loved and betrayed him; of charming ladies and brilliant men around him; of his greatness and of the crafty stupidity of his contemporaries; of the wit and folly of his times; and of the struggle of men and ideas when faced with the march of history.
September 25, 2016
If you're not a history buff, you may not like this book. But, If you are!, you'll definitely have a good time reading this book.
TIGER by KATE BRITTLE BANK.
This book will take you back to Pre-Raj India. India, where few rulers fought with British against their rivals and few of them against British. It's about the Tiger of Mysore' Tipu Sultan.
Things you'll get a glance about.
Tipu Sultan was the bravest and a feared one to British. So cherishable was his death to Britain, that the looting of his kingdom was an opening scene of Wilkie Collins novel, 'Moon stone.'
Painters, writers, and artists celebrated the siege and looting.
The author takes you into the time when Haider Ali, father of Tipu Sultan was struggling to keep up with British. He fought and lost the war. Tipu Sultan was prisoned at young age.
Before he enjoyed the privileges of prince, he also experienced the imprisonment.Those childhood memories would have definitely etched on Tipu's mind which the author didn't describe it in detail.
Cool fact about Tipu Sultan. He is a Tech freak. His father made sure that he was educated under good teachers. He was well educated. His knowledge on varied subjects were anecdoted in the book.
He used to import techincal gadgets of his time(Microscope, barometer, thermometer.) And not to forget, he was the pioneer in the field of rocketry warfare in India.
Looking Tipu Sultan as a ruler, a baseless perception prevailed among the Indians, that he is a bigot. This was shattered when I read few anecdotes.
He knew about religious harmony and also the vulnerabilty that religion could bring in common people. He didn't demolish other sacred sites without a purpose.( He only demolished the sites that stood as symbol depicting rivals in different forms.)
Like all the rulers, he was affined to practice diversity.
When he had tought fight with the British he inculcated Jihad slogans bringing back the old rival tales- Crusades. Funny thing is, he also had a knowledge on futility of fights over religions. I infer this from his lines (to his people in Peshwa kingdom).
"Let the fire of discord, therfore, be kindled amongst them, to the end that they may, in this manner, waste(their strength upon) each other.
He had an interesting habit of writing down his dreams(even I do that :p). I write in my journal and his journal was named as "Khwab-nama."
The best part of the book is when author describes Tipu Sultan not as king or fighter but as a father and a son.
She describes Tipu Sultan as good muslim and support her statements by these beautiful lines,
"Personal faith is not something that one can't measure with any accuracy. The only test for genuine piety is to judge a person by their actions."
Of all, I love this part. His obsession with the Tiger Imagery. He never revealed to which audience the tiger Imagery was an answer but British took it as their counter part because, lion was Britisher's symbol.
The beautiful ferocious Babri. Many museums hold the priceless, precious looted pieces of Tipu Sultan.
Besides all the wars, I find this one funny, Anglo Indian war-4. The time when media kindled the war.
When Tipu was in huge debt to British and when his two of his sons were taken as prisoners, he held a secret mission. Trusting a dubious origin french adventurer, he sent that adventurer to Maurtius to seek for an army. The Mauritus king put up a public notice recruiting army for Tipu. Bengal paper published it. And the rest is history. British invaded and Tipu Sultan was kiled on May 4 1799.
This book gives you an over view of the grand life Tipu Sultan lead. Unfortunately, it's a very short one, after reading this, you'll be in search of more books about Tipu Sultan.
I should acknowledge the strenous work author put in to this project.Author of this book has done a commenable work.
Take a bow Kate Brittlebank. It's an easy read and impulses you to know more about Tipu Sultan.
TIGER by KATE BRITTLE BANK.
This book will take you back to Pre-Raj India. India, where few rulers fought with British against their rivals and few of them against British. It's about the Tiger of Mysore' Tipu Sultan.
Things you'll get a glance about.
Tipu Sultan was the bravest and a feared one to British. So cherishable was his death to Britain, that the looting of his kingdom was an opening scene of Wilkie Collins novel, 'Moon stone.'
Painters, writers, and artists celebrated the siege and looting.
The author takes you into the time when Haider Ali, father of Tipu Sultan was struggling to keep up with British. He fought and lost the war. Tipu Sultan was prisoned at young age.
Before he enjoyed the privileges of prince, he also experienced the imprisonment.Those childhood memories would have definitely etched on Tipu's mind which the author didn't describe it in detail.
Cool fact about Tipu Sultan. He is a Tech freak. His father made sure that he was educated under good teachers. He was well educated. His knowledge on varied subjects were anecdoted in the book.
He used to import techincal gadgets of his time(Microscope, barometer, thermometer.) And not to forget, he was the pioneer in the field of rocketry warfare in India.
Looking Tipu Sultan as a ruler, a baseless perception prevailed among the Indians, that he is a bigot. This was shattered when I read few anecdotes.
He knew about religious harmony and also the vulnerabilty that religion could bring in common people. He didn't demolish other sacred sites without a purpose.( He only demolished the sites that stood as symbol depicting rivals in different forms.)
Like all the rulers, he was affined to practice diversity.
When he had tought fight with the British he inculcated Jihad slogans bringing back the old rival tales- Crusades. Funny thing is, he also had a knowledge on futility of fights over religions. I infer this from his lines (to his people in Peshwa kingdom).
"Let the fire of discord, therfore, be kindled amongst them, to the end that they may, in this manner, waste(their strength upon) each other.
He had an interesting habit of writing down his dreams(even I do that :p). I write in my journal and his journal was named as "Khwab-nama."
The best part of the book is when author describes Tipu Sultan not as king or fighter but as a father and a son.
She describes Tipu Sultan as good muslim and support her statements by these beautiful lines,
"Personal faith is not something that one can't measure with any accuracy. The only test for genuine piety is to judge a person by their actions."
Of all, I love this part. His obsession with the Tiger Imagery. He never revealed to which audience the tiger Imagery was an answer but British took it as their counter part because, lion was Britisher's symbol.
The beautiful ferocious Babri. Many museums hold the priceless, precious looted pieces of Tipu Sultan.
Besides all the wars, I find this one funny, Anglo Indian war-4. The time when media kindled the war.
When Tipu was in huge debt to British and when his two of his sons were taken as prisoners, he held a secret mission. Trusting a dubious origin french adventurer, he sent that adventurer to Maurtius to seek for an army. The Mauritus king put up a public notice recruiting army for Tipu. Bengal paper published it. And the rest is history. British invaded and Tipu Sultan was kiled on May 4 1799.
This book gives you an over view of the grand life Tipu Sultan lead. Unfortunately, it's a very short one, after reading this, you'll be in search of more books about Tipu Sultan.
I should acknowledge the strenous work author put in to this project.Author of this book has done a commenable work.
Take a bow Kate Brittlebank. It's an easy read and impulses you to know more about Tipu Sultan.
October 27, 2016
This is a critical appraisal of Tipu Sultan and his life and not just a plain biography, beyond history books and recent right-wing historical discourses versus the traditional secular ones that spiralled into a controversy about the status the military ruler of Mysore has had so far. Extremely thought provoking, impartial, and economic with words and adulations.
November 30, 2017
Well written, not too in-depth, works well as Tipu Sultan 101, perfect for those with a modest interest in history (especially Indian). Furthermore, being a hardback and beautifully printed, with readable text makes it worth buying.
September 25, 2023
Not much exists on the life of Tipu Sultan that isn't enveloped in a modern, contemporary hatred by the descendants of those whom he ruled over. So when I heard this book recommended as a balanced introductory read, I jumped at the chance to read it.
However, I must warn any fellow curious readers, this is not a normal historical biography. The book itself is very short, and while the content is written well and provides some unique insights, there is no overarching narrative. Chapters seem to be assigned without structure, not enough for me to feel too disorientated, but enough so that I feel somewhat cheated of the full story of the great Tipu Sultan.
I would consider books by Buddy Levy (on Hernan Cortes) and Lawrence Bergreen (on Columbus) to be good examples on how such a book and subsequent narrative can be written, so if you are searching for an accessible yet comprehensive book on Tipu Sultan, continue your search elsewhere. Given the availability on neutral, knowledgeable books on Tipu in the English language however, one takes what one can get.
It is important to state that I did benefit from this book, and just because it was not what I expected, it doesn't mean that the book itself is not informative or useful. Kate Brittlebank gave some very notable insights into the psyche of Tipu himself from the books, journals and notes he himself had written, and it was an astute analysis that I found myself impressed by. I end this short book with a greater knowledge, appreciation and respect for Tipu Sultan, his commitment to an orderly regiment as ruler, his doting behaviour to his sons and his love for knowledge and curiosity.
I would recommend this read for anyone wishing to learn the basics about Tipu Sultan, but I remain on the lookout for a more in-depth work on his life and rule.
However, I must warn any fellow curious readers, this is not a normal historical biography. The book itself is very short, and while the content is written well and provides some unique insights, there is no overarching narrative. Chapters seem to be assigned without structure, not enough for me to feel too disorientated, but enough so that I feel somewhat cheated of the full story of the great Tipu Sultan.
I would consider books by Buddy Levy (on Hernan Cortes) and Lawrence Bergreen (on Columbus) to be good examples on how such a book and subsequent narrative can be written, so if you are searching for an accessible yet comprehensive book on Tipu Sultan, continue your search elsewhere. Given the availability on neutral, knowledgeable books on Tipu in the English language however, one takes what one can get.
It is important to state that I did benefit from this book, and just because it was not what I expected, it doesn't mean that the book itself is not informative or useful. Kate Brittlebank gave some very notable insights into the psyche of Tipu himself from the books, journals and notes he himself had written, and it was an astute analysis that I found myself impressed by. I end this short book with a greater knowledge, appreciation and respect for Tipu Sultan, his commitment to an orderly regiment as ruler, his doting behaviour to his sons and his love for knowledge and curiosity.
I would recommend this read for anyone wishing to learn the basics about Tipu Sultan, but I remain on the lookout for a more in-depth work on his life and rule.
June 20, 2021
A very quick and easy read.
It de-mythologize Tipu, the man and the king. As it correctly says on the cover, read this to get your facts straight. First chapter also gives a glimpse into the everyday life of 'man in the street' of the 18th century era.
It de-mythologize Tipu, the man and the king. As it correctly says on the cover, read this to get your facts straight. First chapter also gives a glimpse into the everyday life of 'man in the street' of the 18th century era.
November 28, 2022
!slxLsls
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2024
The book is a tight answer to all the versions of Tipu which the modern world has made was he really a tyrant?, was he really a religious fanatic?, how was his administration?.
It's a mind-blowing book everyone should read this book before coloring their thoughts about him.
It's a mind-blowing book everyone should read this book before coloring their thoughts about him.
December 3, 2020
Very weak writing. This could have been better presented with due references and smooth flowing passages. It mostly seems to be author's opinion that Tipu was a good man and trying to justify that stand, rather than present clear evidences, does more damage that good to the narrative. Maximum stuff were known to me, after reading Anarchy by Mr. Dalrymple.
April 18, 2019
Great insights into Tipu's life and rule, thorough analysis of Tipu as a person, fantastic detailing of the political climate from the time of his ascendancy to the throne till his death. A must read for anyone interested beyond just the known history of Tipu's rule of Mysore.
September 7, 2025
On a recent visit to Mysore, we visited the Mysore Palace, the legacy of the Woodeyars and the fort of Tipu Sultan in Seringapatnam. While the Mysore Palace is maintained at its glory, you will find the fort in a dilapidated condition, in utter ruins, with a few plaques to give you information.
Post this, I decided to pick up "Tiger -the life of Tipu Sultan" by Kate Brittlebank which has been lying with me. This book is a crisp biography of Tipu. The author, who is considered an expert on Tipu Sultan, tries to analyse the ruler and his actions, addressing the common question, whether he was an anti-colonial hero or a tyrant.
Haider Ali, father of Tipu Sultan, started as a soldier in the Woodeyar army and rose through the ranks due to his strategic and military prowness. He ultimately became the de facto ruler of Mysore. Both Haider and Tipu were always distrusting of the British, and rightfully so. But his neighbouring kingdoms ultimately sided with them against Tipu for political gains.
🐯☀️
The author explains that Tipu's ruling style was quite in line with the times. It was interesting to know the ligic behind his symbols of the tiger and sun. Being only two generations old, he was also finding ways to legitimatise the rule of his family. It was quite interesting that he kept a dream journal.
This book is a good one to start with for Tipu Sultan enthusiasts. Short, analytical and to the point.
Post this, I decided to pick up "Tiger -the life of Tipu Sultan" by Kate Brittlebank which has been lying with me. This book is a crisp biography of Tipu. The author, who is considered an expert on Tipu Sultan, tries to analyse the ruler and his actions, addressing the common question, whether he was an anti-colonial hero or a tyrant.
Haider Ali, father of Tipu Sultan, started as a soldier in the Woodeyar army and rose through the ranks due to his strategic and military prowness. He ultimately became the de facto ruler of Mysore. Both Haider and Tipu were always distrusting of the British, and rightfully so. But his neighbouring kingdoms ultimately sided with them against Tipu for political gains.
🐯☀️
The author explains that Tipu's ruling style was quite in line with the times. It was interesting to know the ligic behind his symbols of the tiger and sun. Being only two generations old, he was also finding ways to legitimatise the rule of his family. It was quite interesting that he kept a dream journal.
This book is a good one to start with for Tipu Sultan enthusiasts. Short, analytical and to the point.
December 24, 2025
This books offers a balanced and deeply researched look at one of India’s most complex historical figures. Rather than portraying Tipu Sultan as only a hero or a tyrant, the book presents him as a capable ruler, military innovator, and fierce opponent of British colonial expansion.
Brittlebank explores Tipu’s use of symbolism (the tiger motif AKA Babri stripes), his administrative reforms, diplomacy, and modernization efforts, while also acknowledging the controversies of his reign. A thoughtful read that moves beyond myth and propaganda, helping us understand Tipu Sultan within his true historical context.
Brittlebank explores Tipu’s use of symbolism (the tiger motif AKA Babri stripes), his administrative reforms, diplomacy, and modernization efforts, while also acknowledging the controversies of his reign. A thoughtful read that moves beyond myth and propaganda, helping us understand Tipu Sultan within his true historical context.
December 8, 2019
The title of the book should be, A Short introduction of Tipu Sultan. If dives the life and work of in the most short manner as possible. While this may come as an incomplete work, the author navigates the story in a quick manner that is engaging and interesting. I can understand the frustration of fellow reviewers for the lack is depth, diving deep will make the book more academic and boring. Instead I would have loved to read more commentary on the reign of Tipu than what's provided.
I'm not disappointed for the lack of commentary but wished to read more from such an eloquent author.
I'm not disappointed for the lack of commentary but wished to read more from such an eloquent author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2021
This is analysis of Sultan on many levels, with debunking of myths and false information. This book provides a view of politics in that era, takes contemporary accounts to analyze him (non-british and neutral sources). However it does not explore or even mention missile technology developed in those times nor it considers rebuilding of Tipu's war machine after 3rd war. It does not mention plots and treachery against him as well. This is my first book of this writer, she is expert on this topic, may be in other books she has written she touched all these aspects.
January 16, 2023
A bit disappointed with this book. As an introduction to Tipu Sultan the descriptive style and focus on the main events is useful in establishing the main themes of the life. The narrative style covers the life and times well but the lack of analysis does not give scholarly insight into Tipu Sultan.
I enjoyed the story and I was interested in the life and times. I just wanted more detail on some aspect and, whilst Brittlebank's more detailed biography may do this, "Tiger" does not provide this detail.
I enjoyed the story and I was interested in the life and times. I just wanted more detail on some aspect and, whilst Brittlebank's more detailed biography may do this, "Tiger" does not provide this detail.
August 12, 2021
The book was not as detailed as I would expect from a biography. It would really be hard to call this a biography, but rather a commentary on life. If you want a history lesson on the Tiger of Mysore, I would rather recommend reading the Wikipedia article on this heroic Freedom FIghter's life and then perhaps read this book, which then paints a more vibrant picture as a whole.
July 2, 2018
Great book indeed. Even though its very concise, author tries to make the reader experience 18th century by describing details around important events. Making us wear the kings shoes to understand what went through his mind. Brilliant.
May 8, 2020
Even though the book was good to the extent of shedding light to certain obscure angles of Tipu Sultan's life, it failed to present an overarching theme. At a lot of places, it felt like a collection of facts picked out at random, and it did not leave me with any concrete take away.
November 16, 2017
More of an essay than a book. But very readable.
September 22, 2018
Brilliant read
November 17, 2018
The biography reveals that he was a feudalist overlord ready to do anything required to retain and expand his power. Though it is a slim volume it seems to be sufficiently researched.
September 10, 2021
Very much peripheral view. Just a scratch.. you are looking for a detailed read on Tipu Sultan, this book is not for you
April 28, 2025
A very quick and easy read. Good for those who want to know the life and history of Tipu Sultan briefly. Could be finished in one sitting.
March 13, 2017
The book was too short, its more like an article. I had noticed that and first didn't buy it, but then succumbed to the cover. Tipu Sultan had an amazing life and a sad end, and deserves more.
October 5, 2023
A good book about life and times of Tipu Sultan but I had expected more
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December 21, 2018Kate Brittlebank, an authority on Tipu Sultan's life, takes an objective view on the life of the Mysore ruler and details his life before his death at the hand of British colonisers in India. Her research promises to take a different view of Tipu from his portrayal by the British for whom he may have been no more than a force to reckon with. Tipu's fairness and religious bent are elaborated through his historic life. His quest to be seen as a king in his right and treatment of the subjects who came from varied religious backgrounds and nationalities are the subject of the book.
what I enjoyed in her research was the use of imagery employed by Hyder and then son Tipu to articulate and authenticate his rule in his realm that connected and established him and his position to the divine vis-s-vis the British imagery which has been, wrongly seen, as the key inspiration of the use of symbolic imagery in Tipu's court.
Another thing of interest was Tipu's love of technology. However, I wished more time and pages had been dedicated to that. How Tipu's sons' education fared in the distant France would have been an exciting addition. Tipu also emphasised on raising a naval army. But it remained a mere mention. Why his ships capsized enrolee to Turkey along with rich gifts for the caliph would have been an knowledgable addition.
However, I felt that if one were to have a comprehensive grasp on the life and times of the Mysore tiger, this would be a sound stepping stone.
what I enjoyed in her research was the use of imagery employed by Hyder and then son Tipu to articulate and authenticate his rule in his realm that connected and established him and his position to the divine vis-s-vis the British imagery which has been, wrongly seen, as the key inspiration of the use of symbolic imagery in Tipu's court.
Another thing of interest was Tipu's love of technology. However, I wished more time and pages had been dedicated to that. How Tipu's sons' education fared in the distant France would have been an exciting addition. Tipu also emphasised on raising a naval army. But it remained a mere mention. Why his ships capsized enrolee to Turkey along with rich gifts for the caliph would have been an knowledgable addition.
However, I felt that if one were to have a comprehensive grasp on the life and times of the Mysore tiger, this would be a sound stepping stone.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 30 reviews