Kunwar Singh: Leader of the 1857 Revolt in Bihar

                                    Kunwar Singh: 1857 Rebellion Hero / Image source

A Rajput zamindar, Kunwar Singh is known as a brave leader who unfurled the banner of rebellion against the British in Bihar. At the time of Revolt of 1857, he was eighty years old. However, old age did not deter him from fighting the British with utmost valour.  

Popularly known as Veer Kunwar Singh, he was born at Jagdishpur village (then in the erstwhile Shahabad district) in Bhojpur district in Bihar in 1777. Chivalry, undaunted courage and able generalship had earned him the sobriquet of “Lion of Bihar”. 

He challenged the British authority and established his own government. He marched to Kalpi in Bundelkhand with a view to give helping hand to Nana Saheb, leader of the revolt in Kanpur.

Known for his perfection in guerrilla warfare, he employed this warfare tactic with great effect against the British.

His gallant resistance to the British forces ended when he died on 26 April, 1858 of the wounds he sustained during the fight with them. 

Opinions on the Revolt of 1857

The Revolt of 1857, also known as First War of Indian Independence, shook the very foundation of the British Empire in India. Some of the famous quotes related to the Revolt: 

“The crisis came at first as a mere military mutiny, it speedily changed its character and became a national insurrection.” – G. B. Malleson 

“It is mutiny or is it a national revolt?” – Benjamin Disraeli, British Conservative leader and Prime Minister. 

"What began as a fight for religion ended as a war for independence for there is not the slightest doubt that rebels wanted to get rid of the alien government and restore the old order of which the king of Delhi was the rightful representative.” –S.N.Sen 

“On the whole, it is difficult to avoid the conclusion that so-called First National War of Independence is neither First, nor National, nor a war of independence.” -R.C. Majumadar. 

“It is in fact an anachronism to describe the mutiny as the first essay towards modern independence. It was rather, in its political aspect, the last effort of the old conservative India.” – Percival Spear.