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Abstract
Travancore was one of the princely states located in the southern part of Peninsular India before and after India’s independence till 1956. It had some other names such as ParasuramaShethram, Malabar, Malai Nadu and Venad. Travancore witnessed many female rulers. Among them Rani Parvathibai’s administration was attracted the attention of several. When she was assumed the power as regency she was very young and without any experience of the country and its affairs. Naturally the world entertained serious apprehensions of her capacity to rule. But her natural intelligence, quiet and kindly nature and a robust patriotism combined to make her one of the greatest rulers of Travancore. The administration of ParvathiBai was favourable to the people. Agriculture and trade registered substantial progress during her period. Cultivation of waste lands and hill tops was given main concern. Freedom of trade was assured within the state. Numerous unjust feudal levies were abolished. She introduced a number of reforms intended to establish social freedom and civil equality. She was tolerated to the Christians and the Muslims.