English

The Role of Sayyid Fazl Pookkoya Thangal in the Anti-Colonial Movement in Malabar

This research explores the pivotal role of Sayyid Fazl Pookkoya Thangal in Kerala’s anti-colonial struggle, highlighting the broader influence of Sufi scholars like him and his father Sayyid Alavi Thangal on the socio-religious and political landscape of Malabar. Islam reached Kerala early, and over centuries, Arab connections fostered deep spiritual roots, especially through the efforts of such Sufi leaders. Sayyid Fazl Thangal emerged as a central figure in resisting British colonialism, particularly by mobilizing Mappilas and oppressed tenant communities . He advocated Hindu-Muslim unity and used both speech and writing to rally resistance, culminating in revolts like the Manjeri (1849) , Kolathur (1851) , and Mattannur (1852) uprisings. Due to his growing influence, the British exiled him to Arabia under the guise of Hajj. In exile, Sayyid Fazl Thangal became a noted scholar and briefly ruled Dhofar , later serving as an advisor to the Ottoman Caliphate , promoting Pan-Islamic ideology . Although his stance toward the British softened during this period—likely for strategic reasons—he never allowed them political control over his new domain. The study concludes that Sayyid Fazl

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