Asia · 1900–1950
Moplah Rebellion
An armed uprising by Mappila Muslims in Malabar against British rule and local landlords.
In 1921 Mappila tenants in the Malabar district of Kerala rose against British administration and Hindu landlords. Variyankunnath Kunjahammed Haji and Ali Musliyar are the leaders named in the source file. The rebellion was suppressed the same year. It is remembered both as an anti-colonial and agrarian revolt and as an episode of severe communal violence. The pin is Kozhikode, the regional marker for Kerala.
Theme. Anti-colonial · Agrarian revolt
Key figures. Variyankunnath Kunjahammed Haji, Ali Musliyar
Outcome. The uprising was defeated in 1921.
Casualties. Thousands died in the fighting, the suppression, and communal attacks. Counts vary by source.
Influence. A major episode in the history of Malabar and of the 1921 period of Indian unrest.