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Kunwar Singh, the Zamindar of Jagdishpur, was a key figure in the Revolt of 1857, leading significant resistance against British forces despite his age. His guerrilla warfare tactics and successful campaigns in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh delayed British control and inspired future freedom fighters. Singh's legacy as a symbol of resistance is honored in modern India, with institutions and celebrations dedicated to his memory.

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5 views

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Kunwar Singh, the Zamindar of Jagdishpur, was a key figure in the Revolt of 1857, leading significant resistance against British forces despite his age. His guerrilla warfare tactics and successful campaigns in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh delayed British control and inspired future freedom fighters. Singh's legacy as a symbol of resistance is honored in modern India, with institutions and celebrations dedicated to his memory.

Uploaded by

kingadi5c
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Kunwar Singh and the Revolt of 1857: Events and British Officers

Involved
Kunwar Singh, the Zamindar of Jagdishpur (Bihar), played a crucial role in the
Revolt of 1857 by leading a strong resistance against the British. Despite being 80
years old, he displayed remarkable military acumen and guerrilla warfare tactics,
making him one of the most successful rebel leaders. His campaign covered Bihar,
Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, forcing the British to divert significant
resources to crush his movement.

Events of Kunwar Singh’s Role in the Revolt of 1857


1. Outbreak of the Revolt in Bihar (July 1857)
News of the Meerut uprising (May 1857) inspired rebellions across India,
including Bihar. On 25 July 1857, Kunwar Singh openly declared war against the
British and took command of rebel forces in Arrah (Bihar). He mobilized local
landlords, peasants, and sepoys, turning Jagdishpur into a center of rebellion.
British Officer Involved:
Captain Charles Dunbar was sent to suppress Kunwar Singh’s forces in Arrah.
2. Siege of Arrah (July-August 1857)
Kunwar Singh's forces laid siege to the British garrison at Arrah, where a small
group of British officers and loyal Indian sepoys were stationed. The British were
trapped inside a house for 8 days, under constant attack. A relief column led by
Major Vincent Eyre was sent to rescue them.
British Officers Involved:
Major Vincent Eyre led British reinforcements.
Captain Charles Dunbar led an initial relief attempt but was ambushed and killed.
3. Defeat at Arrah and Retreat to Lucknow (August 1857)
Major Vincent Eyre’s forces defeated Kunwar Singh’s army, forcing him to retreat
from Arrah. Kunwar Singh burnt his palace in Jagdishpur to prevent it from being
captured by the British. He escaped towards Lucknow, seeking support from Nana
Saheb and other rebel leaders.
British Officer Involved:
Major Vincent Eyre led the British counterattack.
4. Alliance with Nana Saheb and Battle of Rewa (September-
October 1857)
Kunwar Singh moved towards Central India to join forces with Nana Saheb and
Tantia Tope. He helped in raiding British supply lines in Bundelkhand and Rewa
(Madhya Pradesh).
British Officer Involved:
Colonel W. H. Waddington led British forces against Kunwar Singh in Rewa.
5. Attack and Capture of Azamgarh (March 1858)
In March 1858, Kunwar Singh launched a surprise attack on British forces in
Azamgarh (Uttar Pradesh). His forces captured the city, disrupting British control.
The British immediately sent Colonel Dames to recapture Azamgarh.
British Officer Involved:
Colonel Dames was sent to reclaim Azamgarh.
6. Retreat Across the Ganga and Self-Amputation (April 1858)
While retreating from Azamgarh, Kunwar Singh attempted to cross the Ganga
River near Ballia. He was shot in the arm by British forces. In an act of extreme
bravery, he cut off his wounded arm with his sword and threw it into the Ganga as
an offering. He continued leading his troops despite his injury.
British Officer Involved:
Brigadier Douglas led the British pursuit of Kunwar Singh.
7. Final Battle of Jagdishpur and Death (April 1858)
Kunwar Singh returned to Jagdishpur on 22 April 1858. On 23 April 1858, he
defeated the British forces under Captain Le Grand and reclaimed his fort. Four
days later (26 April 1858), he died, leaving behind a legacy of resistance.
British Officer Involved:
Captain Le Grand led the British forces at Jagdishpur.

Consequences of Kunwar Singh’s Resistance


1. British Struggle to Control Bihar
Kunwar Singh’s campaign delayed British consolidation in Bihar and Eastern UP.
His tactics forced the British to divert more troops, weakening their position in
other regions.
2. Inspiration for Later Guerrilla Fighters
His use of guerrilla warfare influenced later revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh and
Subhas Chandra Bose. His ability to fight even after losing an arm made him a
symbol of resistance.
3. Strengthened Nationalist Sentiments
Kunwar Singh’s revolt inspired future freedom fighters in Bihar. He became a folk
hero in India’s freedom struggle.

Significance of Kunwar Singh in the Revolt of 1857


1. One of the Most Successful Rebel Leaders
Unlike many leaders who were quickly suppressed, Kunwar Singh kept the British
engaged for nearly a year. His victories in Azamgarh and Jagdishpur proved that
the revolt was not just a sepoy mutiny but a widespread movement.
2. Master of Guerrilla Warfare
His ability to strike and retreat strategically confused the British forces. His use of
terrain, surprise attacks, and mobile warfare made him a pioneer of guerrilla
tactics.
3. Key Leader in Eastern India
While the Revolt of 1857 was mainly centered in Delhi, Kanpur, and Jhansi,
Kunwar Singh spread the rebellion to Bihar and UP. His resistance proved that
even small kingdoms could challenge the British.
4. Inspired Future Generations
Kunwar Singh’s bravery and sacrifice made him a hero of Indian nationalism. His
resistance influenced later peasant uprisings in Bihar and Jharkhand.
5. Legacy in Modern India
He is honored in Bihar with the Veer Kunwar Singh University. His birth
anniversary (23 April) is celebrated as Veer Kunwar Singh Jayanti. The Kunwar
Singh Setu (bridge) in Bihar is named after him.

Conclusion
Kunwar Singh was one of the most fearless leaders of the Revolt of 1857. He
mobilized local forces, used guerrilla warfare, and defeated the British multiple
times, proving that Indian rulers could resist colonial rule. His acts of bravery,
especially amputating his own arm and continuing to fight, made him a legendary
figure in India’s fight against the British. His legacy continues to inspire
generations of Indians in their pursuit of freedom and justice.

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