REVOLT OF 1857 IN RAJASTHAN

Background and British Influence in Rajasthan

• Treaties with Princely States (1817-18 AD): The British East India Company solidified its influence in Rajasthan by signing treaties with various princely states during 1817-18. These treaties aimed to ensure British supremacy while maintaining the internal sovereignty of the local rulers. Charles Metcalfe, a resident in Delhi, and John Malcolm, a resident in Malwa, played significant roles in these negotiations. These agreements helped the British control military and external affairs of the princely states, ensuring their loyalty.
• Creation of the Resident Post (Post-1817): After these treaties, the British created a position of Resident for Rajputana in Delhi to oversee the princely states’ activities. David Ochterlony was appointed to this influential post, further cementing British control in the region.
• Headquarters of the Agent to the Governor-General (A.G.G.): In 1832 AD, the British established the headquarters of the Agent to the Governor-General (A.G.G.) at Ajmer, with Mr. Locket serving in this capacity. Later, in 1845 AD, the headquarters shifted to Mount Abu. To balance the administrative work, in 1864 AD, a provision was made for A.G.G. duties to be split between Ajmer and Abu, each serving as a center for six months annually.

Revolt of 1857 in Rajasthan

• A.G.G. during the Revolt: During the 1857 revolt, George Patrick Lawrence served as the Agent to the Governor-General (A.G.G.) for Rajasthan, facing significant challenges in maintaining British control during the uprising.
• Military Presence: Rajasthan had six British military cantonments that served as strategic military bases:
  1. Nasirabad
  2. Neemuch
  3. Deoli
  4. Erinpura
  5. Beawar
  6. Khairwara

Notably, no major revolt activities occurred in the Beawar and Khairwara cantonments.

MAJOR CENTERS OF REVOLT

Neemuch

• Initial Resistance: In Neemuch, Mohammad Ali Beg, a soldier, refused to pledge loyalty to Colonel Abbott, marking the beginning of open resistance. The revolt officially broke out on 3rd June 1857.
• Leadership and Support: Heera Singh emerged as a prominent leader of the revolt in Neemuch. During the uprising, Shahpura’s ruler, Lakshman Singh, supported the rebels, adding to the momentum against the British.
• Violence and Escape: The rebels attacked British personnel, leading to the death of a Sergeant and his family. Soldiers from Deoli Cantonment also joined the rebellion, eventually heading toward Delhi.
• Raghu Ram’s Shelter: As the uprising intensified, 40 British soldiers managed to escape from Neemuch. A farmer named Raghu Ram from the village of Dungla provided them shelter, showcasing the complex dynamics of loyalty and protection during the revolt.
• Mewar’s Support: Showers, Mewar’s political agent, helped these British survivors reach Udaipur, where Maharana Swarup Singh offered them refuge in Jag Mandir. This indicates a nuanced relationship between the British and some local rulers, who sought to maintain diplomatic ties.

Erinpura

• Headquarters of the Jodhpur Legion: Erinpura served as the headquarters of the Jodhpur Legion, established in 1835. This location became a focal point during the uprising.
• Rebellion of Purbiya Soldiers: On 21st August 1857, Purbiya soldiers in Abu initiated a revolt, attacking the residence of the cantonment officer, Hall.
• March to Delhi: By 23rd August 1857, these rebel soldiers, joined by others, moved toward Delhi, rallying under the slogan “Maaro Firangi, Dilli Chalo” (“Kill the foreigners, March to Delhi”), signifying their determination to challenge British authority.
• Leadership of Kushal Singh Champawat: Kushal Singh Champawat, the feudal lord of Auwa, provided crucial leadership to the rebels, playing a pivotal role in the subsequent battles.

MAJOR BATTLES

Battle of Bithora (8th September 1857)

• Opponents: The battle saw Kushal Raj Singhvi and Captain Heathcote facing Kushal Singh Champawat.
• Outcome: The rebels achieved a significant victory in this battle, which led to the death of Onad Singh Panwar of Jodhpur and 76 soldiers of the provincial army, indicating the strength of local resistance against British forces.

Battle of Chelawas (18th September 1857)

• Opponents: George Patrick Lawrence and MacMason fought against Kushal Singh Champawat.
• Outcome: The rebels once again emerged victorious. MacMason was killed, and his severed head was displayed on the fort of Auwa as a symbol of the rebel triumph.

Battle of Auwa (20th September 1857)

• Opponents: Col. Holmes and Hans Raj Joshi fought against Prithvi Singh Lambiyan.
• Outcome: Despite initial resistance, the British recaptured Auwa on 24th January 1858 AD. They took the idol of Sugali Mata, symbolizing their assertion of dominance. However, Poet Girwar Dan later described this battle as part of the struggle for India’s independence, highlighting its significance in India’s broader freedom movement.
• Kushal Singh’s Resistance and Surrender: After the defeat at Auwa, Kushal Singh sought refuge with Kesari Singh, the feudal lord of Salumbar, and Jodh Singh, the feudal lord of Kotharia. Eventually, on 8th August 1860 AD, he surrendered at Neemuch. A Taylor Commission was established to investigate his role, and on 10th November 1858 AD, he was released. He spent his remaining years in Udaipur, passing away in 1864 AD. His son, Devi Singh, later received the jagir of Auwa.

Key Figures of the Revolt in Marwar

• Marwar witnessed the participation of several feudal lords who actively resisted British authority. Key figures included:
  • Shivnath Singh Asop
  • Bishan Singh Gular
  • Ajit Singh Alaniyawas
  • Jodh Singh Bogawa
  • Pem Singh Banta
  • Chand Singh Baswana
  • Jagat Singh Tulgiri

Nasirabad

• Start of the Revolt: The revolt in Nasirabad began on 28th May 1857 when soldiers of the 15th Native Infantry mutinied. They were soon joined by soldiers from the 30th Native Infantry on 30th May 1857.
• Casualties and Impact: The mutiny led to the deaths of Col. Newberry and Capt. Spottiswoods. Capt. Hardy and Lt. Lock sustained injuries, and Col. Penny succumbed to a heart attack during the turmoil. The mutineers eventually made their way to Delhi, aligning with the larger revolt efforts against the British.

MASS REBELLION IN KOTA (15 OCTOBER 1857)

• Key Figures:
  • Rebel Leader: Lawyer Jayadayal.
  • King: Maharao Ram Singh II.
  • Military Leader: Risaldar Mehrab Khan.
  • Political Agent: Major Burton.
• Events Leading to the Rebellion:
  • On 14 October 1857, Major Burton met with Maharao Ram Singh II and advised him to take punitive action against Jayadayal and Mehrab Khan, suggesting the deposition of Ratanlal and Jialal, who were seen as sympathetic to the rebellion.
• Outbreak of Rebellion:
  • On 15 October 1857, the rebels, led by Jayadayal and Mehrab Khan, killed Major Burton, his two sons Frank and Arthur, Dr. Selder (surgeon of the Residency), Dr. Seville Contam of the Kota dispensary, and Devi Lal, the representative of the Maharao.
  • Following these killings, the rebels house-arrested Maharao Ram Singh II and took control of Kota.
• Negotiations and Agreement:
  • An agreement between Maharao Ram Singh II and the rebels was mediated by Kanhaiyalal Goswami, the Mahant of the Mathuradhish temple. The Maharao was forced to sign a treaty letter, taking responsibility for the death of Major Burton.
• British Retaliation and Aftermath:
  • King Madanpal of Karauli sent military aid to liberate Maharao Ram Singh II.
  • On 22 March 1858, General Roberts arrived in Kota. After an eight-day struggle, Kota was fully recaptured from the rebels.
  • Jayadayal and Mehrab Khan were subsequently hanged for their role in the rebellion.
  • As a punitive measure, the gun salute for Maharao Ram Singh II was reduced from 15 to 11. In contrast, King Madanpal of Karauli was rewarded with a 17-gun salute for his assistance to the British.

Rebellion in Dholpur

• Community Involvement: The Gurjar community, under the leadership of Deva Gurjar, initiated the revolt against British rule.
• Support from Neighboring States: Rebels from Gwalior and Indore joined the uprising in Dholpur, with Rao Ramchandra and Hiralal playing key roles in organizing the rebellion.
• British Response: King Bhagwant Singh of Dholpur sought assistance from the Patiala army to suppress the rebels, highlighting the cooperation between certain Indian rulers and the British during the revolt.

Revolt in Tonk

• Division Among Rulers:
  • Nawab Waziruddaula of Tonk remained loyal to the British.
  • His uncle, Mir Alam Khan, sided with the rebels, reflecting internal divisions within the princely state.
• Support for Neemuch Rebels: The rebels from Neemuch were welcomed in Nimbahera, where they received local support. Tarachand Patel confronted Colonel Jackson’s forces, which were pursuing the Neemuch rebels. Despite his resistance, Tarachand Patel was executed.
• Role of Women: According to Mohammad Mujib’s play “Azmayish”, women also actively participated in the Tonk rebellion, indicating the broader involvement of society in the uprising.

Rebellion in Bharatpur

• Community Involvement: The Gurjars and Mev communities in Bharatpur rose against the British rule, leading a local rebellion.
• Maharaja’s Strategy: Maharaja Jaswant Singh advised the British political agent Morrison to leave Bharatpur, attempting to maintain stability in the region amidst the rebellion.

Revolt in Jaipur

• Maharaja Ramsingh II’s Role: Under the guidance of Eden, the British political agent, Maharaja Ramsingh II took action against local rebels:
  • Sadullah Khan: Expelled.
  • Vilayat Khan: Captured.
  • Usman Khan: Captured.
• British Reward: The British granted Maharaja Ramsingh II the title “Sitar-e-Hind” (Star of India) and awarded him the Kotputli pargana for his loyalty and actions during the revolt.

Revolt in Alwar

• Divided Loyalties: Maharaja Vinay Singh of Alwar remained an ally of the British, while his Deewan Faizullah Khan sided with the rebels, indicating internal conflict within the princely state.

Tantya Tope’s Role in Rajasthan (1858 AD)

• Entry into Rajasthan: During the 1857 uprising, Tantya Tope entered Rajasthan twice, first through the Mandalgarh area of Bhilwara.
• Support from Nasir Muhammad Khan: In Tonk, Nasir Muhammad Khan supported Tantya Tope in his resistance against the British.
• Battle of Kuada: On 9 August 1858, General Roberts defeated Tantya Tope at the Battle of Kuada, fought on the banks of the Kothari River.
• Confrontation in Jhalawar: King Prithvi Singh of Jhalawar sent troops against Tantya Tope at Palayata, but most troops refused to fight, except for the Gopal Paltan regiment.
• Capture of Jhalawar: Tantya Tope successfully captured Jhalawar, extracting a ransom of Rs. 5 lakh from Prithvi Singh.
• Victory in Banswara: He also defeated King Laxman Singh of Banswara, capturing the region.
• Efforts to Secure Support: Tantya Tope sought aid from various princely states in Rajasthan, excluding Jaisalmer.
• Shelter and Betrayal: In Mewar, Kesari Singh Salumbar and Jodh Singh Kothariya provided him refuge, while Raja Sardar Singh of Bikaner supplied 10 cavalrymen.
• Capture and Execution: Betrayed by Mansingh, his friend, Tantya Tope was captured in the forests of Narwar by the British and subsequently hanged on 18 April 1859 in Shivpuri.
• Criticism of Execution: Captain Showers criticized the British decision, stating that hanging Tantya Tope would be seen as a crime by future generations and would be questioned in history.
• Sikar’s Feudal Lord’s Execution: The feudal lord of Sikar faced execution for providing shelter to Tantya Tope, emphasizing the widespread impact of the revolt on local nobility.

Amarchand Banthia

• Background: Amarchand Banthia hailed from Bikaner and became known for his contributions to the 1857 revolt.
• Financial Support: He provided financial assistance to Tantya Tope and the Rani of Jhansi during their struggles against British forces in Gwalior.
• Recognition as Bhamashah: His contributions earned him the title “Bhamashah of the revolution,” likening him to Bhamashah, the historic benefactor of Maharana Pratap.
• British Repression: Amarchand Banthia was executed by the British, illustrating the harsh consequences faced by those who actively supported the rebellion.

CAUSES OF THE REVOLT OF 1857 IN RAJASTHAN

The Revolt of 1857 in Rajasthan was not just a spontaneous outburst of anger against British rule; it was the culmination of various political, administrative, economic, socio-religious, military, and literary grievances that had been building up over time. Below is an expanded explanation of these causes:

1. Political Reasons

The British East India Company’s policies and interference in the internal matters of the princely states of Rajasthan sowed the seeds of dissatisfaction among the ruling class and the general populace.

• Violation of Treaties (1817-18 AD): According to the treaties signed in 1817-18 AD, the British Resident stationed in the princely states was not supposed to interfere in their internal matters. However, in practice, the Residents often meddled in the political affairs, undermining the authority of local rulers. This created resentment among the rulers who felt that their sovereignty was being eroded.
• Burden of British Troops: To protect the princely states from external threats, the British established forces such as the Mewar Bhil Corps, Kota Contingent, and Jodhpur Legion. However, the maintenance cost of these forces was imposed on the princely states, placing a significant financial burden on them. This led to further discontent among the rulers who saw this as exploitation.
• Intervention in Succession Disputes: The British interfered in the succession disputes of states like Bharatpur and Alwar, often favoring one faction over another. Such actions caused unrest among the local nobility and princes, who viewed this as an encroachment on their traditional rights.
• Partition of Kota: The partition of Kota to create the state of Jhalawar angered many local leaders. This move by the British was seen as an attempt to weaken the authority of Kota’s rulers, creating a deep sense of betrayal and leading to anti-British sentiment among the ruling elites and the public.

These political actions fueled dissatisfaction not only among the rulers and nobility but also among the common people who saw their leaders being undermined.

2. Administrative Reasons

British administrative policies disrupted the traditional power structures, causing widespread discontent among the feudal lords (thakurs) and their soldiers.

• Abolition of Feudal Rights: The British systematically stripped feudal lords of their hereditary rights, which had been the foundation of their power and influence. This diminished the status of these lords, making them resentful toward British rule.
• Conversion of Seva Chakri to Cash: The Seva Chakri system, which required feudal lords to render military service in exchange for land or privileges, was converted into a cash payment system. This change undermined the traditional social structure, where the relationship between rulers and their lords was based on service rather than monetary exchange.
• Conversion of Jagiri Land into Khalsa: Many Jagiri lands (lands granted to feudal lords in return for services) were converted into Khalsa (crown lands), reducing the control of local rulers and lords over their territories. This directly impacted their revenue and status, creating bitterness against British policies.
• End of Military Dependence: The British no longer relied on the armies of the feudal lords for their military needs. As a result, many local armies were disbanded, leaving soldiers unemployed. The disbanded soldiers became a source of anti-British sentiment, as they had lost their livelihoods.
• Abolition of Feudal Taxes: The British also abolished several traditional taxes collected by the feudal lords, such as mercantile tax and revenue tax, further reducing their economic power. This made the feudal lords more inclined to support the rebels during the revolt as they sought to restore their traditional rights and privileges.

3. Economic Reasons

The British economic policies had a significant adverse impact on the traditional economy of Rajasthan, causing widespread discontent among various sections of society.

• Fixed Khiraj (Tribute): The British demanded a fixed khiraj (tribute) from the kings of Rajasthan, irrespective of the state’s economic condition. This system put an immense strain on the princely states’ treasuries, as they had to meet these fixed payments even during years of poor revenue.
• Decline in State Revenue: British policies related to opium, salt, and excise reduced the revenue of the princely states. In response, the local rulers increased taxes on peasants to cover their financial shortfalls. This led to resentment among the peasants, who blamed both the local kings and the British for their increasing economic hardships.
• Destruction of Cottage Industries: The influx of British manufactured goods into Rajasthan led to the collapse of traditional cottage industries. Local artisans and craftsmen were unable to compete with British goods, leading to widespread unemployment and poverty.
• Displacement of Local Traders: The development of new trade routes by the British, combined with the preferential treatment given to British traders, led to the displacement of local traders in Rajasthan. The local merchants and traders who had thrived under the traditional system found themselves marginalized, leading them to support the anti-British sentiments.

4. Socio-Religious Reasons

The British policies and actions were perceived as a threat to the social and religious fabric of Rajasthan, leading to widespread resentment.

• Spread of Christian Missionaries: After 1813 AD, the presence of Christian missionaries in Rajasthan increased, leading to fears among the people that the British were attempting to convert them to Christianity. The traditional, conservative society of Rajasthan viewed this as a direct threat to their religious beliefs and practices.
• Social Reforms and Suspicion: The British introduced social reforms such as the abolition of sati and the Widow Remarriage Act, which were not easily accepted by the conservative sections of Rajasthan’s society. These reforms were seen as an interference in the traditional way of life, and many believed that the British aimed to undermine their cultural values.

This growing suspicion of British intentions fueled the anger among people, who felt that their religious identity was under threat.

5. Military Reasons

Grievances among the soldiers played a crucial role in turning them against the British during the revolt.

• Racial Discrimination: Indian soldiers in the British army faced discrimination in terms of salary and benefits. They were paid significantly less than their British counterparts, leading to feelings of resentment and injustice.
• Introduction of Enfield Rifles: The use of Enfield rifles with cartridges rumored to be greased with cow and pig fat deeply offended the religious sentiments of both Hindu and Muslim soldiers. The requirement to bite the cartridge to load the rifle was seen as a deliberate attempt to defile their religion. This issue was a major trigger for the revolt.

These military grievances played a pivotal role in turning Indian soldiers, who had been the backbone of British military power in India, into fierce opponents of British rule.

6. Literary Reasons

The influence of local poets and writers helped to spread anti-British sentiments among the masses.

• Role of Poets: Poets like Bankidas, Raghodas, Sandu Gangaji, and Mahakavi Suryamall Meesan played a crucial role in shaping public opinion against the British. Through their writings, they highlighted the plight of the people under British rule and evoked a sense of pride in the Indian heritage.
• Suryamall Meesan’s Influence: Mahakavi Suryamall Meesan, in particular, is known for his passionate poetry that criticized the British and glorified the valor of Rajasthan’s past warriors. His verses inspired many to rise against the British and contributed to the growing sentiment of resistance.

These literary contributions helped to awaken a sense of nationalism and resistance among the people of Rajasthan, making the revolt not only a political struggle but also a cultural movement.

The causes of the Revolt of 1857 in Rajasthan were multifaceted, encompassing political, administrative, economic, socio-religious, military, and literary grievances. The British policies systematically undermined the traditional structures of power, disrupted the economic stability, and threatened the social and religious identities of the people. As a result, a wide spectrum of society—ranging from feudal lords and soldiers to peasants, traders, and poets—found common ground in opposing British rule. This collective resentment ultimately fueled the revolt, making it a significant chapter in India’s struggle for independence.

FAILURES OF THE REVOLT OF 1857 IN RAJASTHAN

The Revolt of 1857 faced several challenges in Rajasthan, leading to its eventual failure. Here are the key reasons behind this outcome:

1. Lack of Coordination and Leadership:
   • The various centers of rebellion, including the four major military cantonments and other uprising hubs, lacked mutual coordination.
   • There was no integrated strategy or skilled leadership to unify the efforts of the rebels, leading to scattered and isolated actions against the British.
2. Timing Discrepancies:
   • The revolts in different cantonments and regions of Rajasthan did not occur simultaneously. This gap in timing allowed the British forces to focus on and suppress one rebellion at a time, preventing the uprisings from gaining a stronghold across the region.
3. Lack of External Leadership:
   • Revolutionary leaders outside Rajasthan, such as Bahadur Shah Zafar and Nana Saheb, were unable to provide effective guidance to the rebels within the region.
   • In Mewar, there was hope for leadership from Maharana Swaroop Singh, but he remained a British ally, further weakening the prospects of a coordinated resistance in Rajasthan.
4. Delayed Arrival of Tantya Tope:
   • Tantya Tope, a significant military leader, arrived in Rajasthan after the British had already suppressed revolts in other parts of North India. By then, the rebellion had lost momentum elsewhere, and his focus on Rajasthan could not change the overall tide of the conflict.
5. Inferior Military Resources:
   • The rebels in Rajasthan lacked modern weapons and experienced generals compared to the British forces. The technological and strategic superiority of the British army gave them a crucial advantage over the local forces.
6. Support from Local Rulers:
   • Many rulers of Rajasthan and feudal lords sided with the British during the revolt. Their support played a critical role in suppressing the rebellion, as they provided the British with strategic insights and resources.
7. British Repression:
   • The British response to the revolt was brutal and unyielding, employing severe measures to suppress the rebels. This harsh retaliation intimidated the general public, preventing widespread participation in the uprising.
8. Limited Spread of the Revolt:
   • The rebellion in Rajasthan was confined to certain regions and lacked broad support from all sections of society. Key groups, such as the peasantry and traders, did not participate uniformly across the state, leading to limited mobilization.
9. Failure to Capture Ajmer:
   • The rebels did not make an attempt to capture Ajmer, which was a significant strategic center and the seat of British power in Rajasthan. This allowed the British to maintain a foothold in the region and effectively coordinate their suppression efforts.

RESULTS OF THE REVOLT OF 1857 IN RAJASTHAN

The Revolt of 1857 had a lasting impact on Rajasthan, reshaping political dynamics and influencing future resistance movements. Here are the key outcomes:

1. Reward to Rulers:
   • Many rulers who had sided with the British during the revolt were honored and rewarded with titles and privileges. Their loyalty ensured that they retained power under the British regime.
2. Disempowerment of Feudal Lords:
   • Feudal lords who had supported the rebels faced punitive measures. The British systematically reduced their powers and rights, ensuring that they could not challenge colonial rule again.
3. Support to Merchant Class:
   • The merchant class in Rajasthan, which had generally supported the British during the revolt, was rewarded with patronage. This alliance strengthened their economic position under British rule.
4. Increased British Influence:
   • Following the revolt, the influence of the British on the princely states of Rajasthan increased significantly. Symbols of British authority, such as coins bearing the friendship of London and Victoria Empress, became common, reflecting their dominance.

1. Development of Infrastructure:
   • The British focused on improving transport and communication networks in Rajasthan, including the development of railways and postal services, to ensure better control and connectivity across the region.
2. Walter Scheme and Education:
   • To separate the ruling class from the general public, the British introduced the Walter Scheme, establishing special schools and colleges for the children of kings and feudal lords. This aimed to create a loyal elite class educated in British values.
3. Emergence of a Middle Class:
   • The spread of English education led to the rise of a middle class in Rajasthan, which played a crucial role in later nationalist movements. Figures like Vijay Singh Pathik, Arjun Lal Sethi, and Rao Gopal Singh Kharwa emerged from this educated class, contributing to future struggles for independence.
4. Inspiration for National Movements:
   • The revolt of 1857 served as an inspiration for subsequent nationalist movements. Kushal Singh Champawat became a folk hero in Rajasthan, with his story celebrated in folk songs and literature, embodying the spirit of resistance.
5. Economic Strain and Peasant Uprisings:
   • With increased English patronage of rulers, many unqualified kings engaged in luxurious lifestyles, leading to higher taxes on the general public. This resulted in economic strain and the emergence of peasant uprisings against oppressive policies.
6. Resentment Against British:
   • The brutal suppression of the revolt left deep resentment among the general public. The inhumane atrocities committed by the British during the suppression created a lasting animosity towards colonial rule, setting the stage for future resistance.

NATURE OF THE REVOLT OF 1857 IN RAJASTHAN

The nature of the revolt in Rajasthan was complex, encompassing multiple dimensions that went beyond a simple military mutiny:

1. Military Rebellion:
   • The revolt began as a military rebellion, triggered by grievances such as the use of fat cartridges for the Enfield rifles and other discriminatory service conditions. However, it cannot be classified merely as a soldiers’ uprising, as it also saw participation from civilians and other societal groups.
   • Notably, the soldiers in Beawar and Khairwara cantonments remained loyal to the British, showing a lack of uniform support among the military.
2. Feudal Revolt:
   • The rebellion also had elements of a feudal revolt. After the kings accepted British patronage, the feudal lords lost much of their power and autonomy. Their socio-economic and political discontent drove them to support the rebellion, often for personal interests.
   • However, it is important to note that many of these feudal lords also demonstrated a sense of patriotism. For instance, the feudatories of Marwar marched towards Delhi with the rebels, and those of Mewar harbored anti-British sentiments, indicating a desire for the end of British rule.
3. Religious Dissent:
   • Religious sentiments played a significant role in the revolt. The cartridges greased with cow and pig fat were seen as a direct attack on Hindu and Islamic beliefs, leading to widespread anger among the soldiers.
   • Additionally, the evangelization efforts of Christian missionaries and British social reforms like the abolition of sati were perceived as threats to the traditional social order. Although the impact of Christian missionary activities in Rajasthan was less pronounced than in other parts of India, it contributed to the general sense of distrust towards British rule.
4. Freedom Struggle:
   • The Revolt of 1857 in Rajasthan also had elements of a freedom struggle. The participation of common people, the attempt by the rebels to march towards Delhi, and the writings of figures like Suryamall Meesan indicate a desire for liberation from British rule.
   • In his letters, Suryamall Meesan hinted at secret organizations working against the British. Similarly, Nathuram Kharagavat, in his book “Rajasthan’s Role in the Struggles of 1857 AD,” emphasized that the rebels held sympathy for Bahadur Shah Zafar, admiration for Nana Saheb, and hatred towards the British.
   • Thus, the uprising in Rajasthan can be considered part of the larger Indian struggle for freedom, aimed at ending British dominance and restoring traditional governance systems.

The Revolt of 1857 in Rajasthan, though ultimately unsuccessful, had profound implications for the region. It was characterized by a blend of military dissent, feudal grievances, religious sentiment, and a nascent spirit of nationalism. While it lacked the coordination and support needed for a sustained challenge to British power, the rebellion left a legacy that inspired future generations. As I.T. Pritchard, a military officer of the Nasirabad Cantonment, noted in his book “Mutiny in Rajputana,” the revolt began as a military uprising in Nasirabad but gradually transformed into a broader struggle for freedom against the British Raj.