Hyder Ali Khan was the Sultan and de facto ruler of the kingdom of Mysore in southern India. Born as Sayyid Wal Sharif Hyder Ali Khan,he distinguished himself militarily,eventually drawing the attention of Mysore's rulers. Hyder Ali commanded 3,000 infantry and 1,500 cavalry, and was reported to be enriching himself on campaigns by plunder. In that year, he was also appointed Faujdar (military commander) of Dindigul.