Babu Veer Kunwar Singh: Immortal Warrior of the Freedom Struggle(23 April 1777- 26 April 1858)
Babu Veer Kunwar Singh: Immortal Warrior of the Freedom Struggle(23 April 1777- 26 April 1858)
Babu Veer Kunwar Singh was one of the early and influential warriors of the Indian freedom struggle. He is immortal in history as the hero of the First Indian War of Independence of 1857. He is still remembered for his indomitable courage, leadership ability and patriotism against the British rule. He was the ruler of Jagdishpur princely state in Bhojpur district of Bihar.
Birth and early life
Babu Veer Kunwar Singh was born on 23 April 1777 in Jagdishpur village in Bhojpur district of Bihar. He belonged to a prestigious Rajput family and his father's name was Babu Saheb Singh. From childhood, Veer Kunwar Singh clearly showed bravery, self-respect and a sense of leadership.
Contribution of Mithila
Mithila has the pride that Veer Kunwar Singh's Rajguru Bhikhiya Jha was from Mangaroni village of Madhubani district of Mithila. It was the same Bhikhiya Jha who filled the revolutionary spirit in Veer Kunwar Singh's mind. He inspired him to fight for self-respect, freedom and nationalism. This fact is also recorded in the government documents of the British archives, which proves this historical connection. This role of Mithila is considered very glorious in the background of the freedom struggle.
Political background and leadership qualities
Veer Kunwar Singh had good experience of running the government. He was considered a skilled administrator and a just king. Although he was about 80 years old when the freedom struggle started in 1857, he did not hesitate to raise his sword against the British. His courage presents him as an extraordinary warrior.
1857 freedom struggle and bravery
In the 1857 revolution, Veer Kunwar Singh took the front against the British army. He started the struggle from Jagdishpur and led many important military campaigns. Some of the major events are as follows:
Revolution of Danapur (1857): After the revolt of the soldiers of Danapur, he accepted the leadership of Veer Kunwar Singh.
Battle of Arrah: He caused heavy damage to the British army in Arrah and this war became a proof of his strategy and military skills.
Rewa, Azamgarh and Banaras Campaign: He fought against the British in many areas of North India, and repeatedly challenged the British.
War with one hand
The most famous incident of Veer Kunwar Singh's bravery occurred when his right hand was seriously injured by a bullet in a war. To prevent the spread of infection, he himself cut off that hand with his sword and immersed it in the Ganges. Even after this, he continued the war – this became an example of his unwavering patriotism and sacrifice.
Death
On 26 April 1858, Veer Kunwar Singh died a few days after re-liberating Jagdishpur from the British. But before his death, he had ensured that his region was independent again.
Significance and memory
Babu Veer Kunwar Singh is revered in Indian history as the "Lion of Bihar" and the "Old Warrior of the Revolution".
The Government of India has issued a postage stamp in his honour.
23 April is celebrated as 'Veer Kunwar Singh Jayanti' in Bihar.
'Veer Kunwar Singh University' in Ara has been established in his name.
The cultural unity and spirit of struggle of both the regions – Mithila and Bhojpur – is highlighted in this history.
Babu Veer Kunwar Singh is one of those true sons of the freedom struggle, who dedicated even the last moment of his life for the motherland. His life teaches us that age, physical condition or resources are no barriers—if there is a flame of patriotism in the heart. Also, it is important to remember the contribution of sages like Bhikhiya Jha of Mithila, who ignited the flame of patriotism within the heroes. This history is inspiring even today and will remain a source of inspiration for generations to come.
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