The Bearys of the coast participated in the Indian freedom struggle against Portugal and British colonialism. There were a number of Beary men who served in the naval force, and also as soldiers and military commanders in the army of brave queen of Chowta dynasty, Rani Abbakka () who ruled in the Ullal region. The Bearys had also joined the army of Nawab Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan of Mysore. Historians and researchers have enlisted famous Beary personalities who participated in the freedom struggle of India. Many such freedom fighters were imprisoned by British, and a few died during imprisonment.