From the depths of the colonial era’s excavations emerged a trove of Buddhist relics and statues, like shimmering jewels unearthed from the sands of time. These relics, imbued with the echoes of ancient wisdom, rekindled the flame of Buddhism’s glorious history in India.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, a wave of Bhikkhus, sages of the Buddhist faith, arrived from Sri Lanka, with their hearts brimming with the Dharma’s nectar. Among them were Bhikkhus Dhammapala, Bodhanand, and Pragyanand, who ventured into the northern reaches of India, their presence enriched the land with their profound knowledge and unwavering devotion. Their tireless efforts revitalized the Buddhist spirit, weaving a tapestry of enlightenment across the northern terrain.

In Lucknow, the city of Nawabs and poets, the Buddhists pay homage to these venerated Bhikkhus, acknowledging their pivotal role in preserving and propagating the Buddha-Dhamma. Similarly, among the Barau Buddhists, Bhikkhu Kripasaran stands as a beacon of wisdom, his teachings illuminating the path to enlightenment for countless seekers.

Beyond the boundaries of sects and traditions, the legacy of Dr. Ambedkar, the visionary leader who embraced Buddhism, is revered by Ambedkar-Buddhists and Barau-Buddhists alike. His unwavering commitment to social justice and his profound understanding of the Buddha’s teachings have left an indelible mark on the landscape of Indian Buddhism.

Lucknow’s Buddhist Footprints: Tracing the City’s Ancient Buddhist Narrative through Folklore.

Gautama Buddha, the luminescence of wisdom, graced the lands of present-day Uttar Pradesh with his presence for a substantial period of his earthly existence. While his extended sojourns in Shravasti, Sarnath, and Kushinagar are widely acknowledged, the Buddhist community of Lucknow holds an unwavering conviction that he ventured into numerous other locations within the city’s boundaries.

Hindu mythology traces the origins of modern-day Lucknow to Lakshman, a revered figure from the epic Ramayana. However, an alternative narrative posits that Lucknow’s name stems from its earlier appellation, Nucklow (नखलऊ), a title still employed by the city’s elder residents. This name’s genesis lies in the enshrinement of Buddha’s nails (नख) in a stupa at this site. The veneration of Buddha’s nails (नख) bestowed upon the place its unique name, which gradually evolved from Nucklow (नखलऊ) to Lucknow (लखनऊ). Another historical anecdote recounts the existence of a Buddhist shrine at Buddheshwar Chowraha, which was eventually seized by Hindus and transformed into a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Furthermore, a captivating folk legend among Lucknow’s Buddhist community narrates the tale of a Baudh Vihara known as Amavasi Baudh Vihar, where Buddhists would assemble on the day of the new moon (Amavasa). The present-day airport, named ‘Amousi airport,’ stands upon the former site of this Vihara, its name echoing the Vihara’s legacy. Consequently, a profound belief persists among Buddhists that Lucknow’s history is inextricably intertwined with Buddhist culture, rendering it an enticing destination for archaeological explorations and excavations.

Navigating the Demographic Dynamics of Lucknow’s Buddhist Community.

In 1951, a small community of 73 Buddhists resided in Lucknow district. This number steadily grew over the following decades, reaching 4327 by the 2001 census. The initial Buddhist population primarily consisted of Bengali Barua families who migrated from Chittagong in 1905 following the partition of Bengal. These individuals worked as servants, cooks, and stable hands for British officials. A significant increase in Lucknow’s Buddhist population was observed in the 1991 and 2001 censuses. This surge can be attributed to several factors, including the proliferation of literature on Ambedkar, Asoka, and Buddha, particularly among government employees after 1990, and their active involvement in dhamma activities. Nearly 70% of Uttar Pradesh’s Buddhist population belongs to the scheduled castes, while the remaining 30% represent other backgrounds. Overall, Lucknow’s Buddhist community encompasses a diverse range of social backgrounds, including Barau Bengalis, scheduled castes, and backward castes.

Hailing from the Barua region of Bengal, a group of devout Buddhists laid the groundwork for modern Buddhism in Lucknow, predating Dr. Ambedkar’s transformative embrace of the faith. In 1907, Bhikkhu Kripasaran Mahasthavir (1865-1926), a luminary of the Bengal Buddhist Association, oversaw the construction of the Bodhisattva Vihar on Latus Road in Lucknow. Kripasaran’s esteemed friendship with Harcourt Butler (1869-1938), then Education Secretary of the Government of India and later Governor of Agra and Oudh, played a pivotal role in securing the land upon which the Vihara proudly stands today.

Lucknow’s Architectural Treasures: Showcasing the Buddhist Legacy of the 20th and 21st Centuries.

Amidst the serene greenery of Risaldar Park in Lucknow, stands the second-oldest Buddha Vihar, a resplendent monument to the enduring heritage of Buddhism. Erected under the benevolent patronage of the esteemed Mahabodhi Society of India, this venerated sanctuary owes its genesis to the visionary Bhikkhu Bodhanand. Upon his homecoming from the sanctified lands of Sri Lanka, Bhikkhu Bodhanand embarked on a noble quest to rekindle the flickering flame of Buddhism in its native soil. His path serendipitously converged with those of Bhikkhu Kripasaran and the revered Bodhisattva Vihar. Bhikkhu Pragyanand (1928-), a devout disciple of Bhikkhu Bodhanand and the current custodian of the Vihara, occupies a position of eminence among the Bhikkhus, led by Bhikkhu Chandramani, who imparted the sacred deeksha upon Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar in 1956. This venerable Vihara stands as a beacon of unity, fostering a harmonious confluence of Dalit, Bahujan, and Buddhist communities. Dr. Ambedkar, the illustrious champion of equality, graced this sacred space with his presence on two propitious occasions, in 1932 and 1948.

At the gentle feet of Rumi Gate, the expansive Gautam Buddha Park gracefully unfolds a testament to Lucknow’s rich Buddhist heritage. Conceived in 1980 by the visionary LDA, this verdant oasis stretches across ten acres, its heart brimming with the serenity of a colossal statue of Buddha in a sitting posture of profound contemplation. This immense sculpture, one of Lucknow’s most revered landmarks, exudes an aura of tranquility, irresistibly drawing pilgrims and seekers alike into its embrace of peace. Throughout the year, the park bursts into vibrant life as it hosts celebrations of Buddhism’s auspicious moments, deeply interwoven into the rituals and calendars of this timeless faith.

In the heart of Lucknow stands “Parivartan Chowk”, where tradition and modernity intertwine. In Its center there is a serene four sided Buddha statue in a contemplative pose, perched upon a pedestal of ebony granite, radiates tranquility amidst the urban symphony. At the four cardinal corners of this towering monument stand statues of revered figures, each a beacon of societal upliftment: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a champion of social equity; Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj, a visionary who championed education and empowerment; Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, a pioneer of social reform; and Narayan Guru, a spiritual luminary.

Parivartan Chowk’s historical significance is further enriched by its proximity to verdant oases, offering a tranquil respite from the city’s clamor. Lakshman Park, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Park, Subhash Park, Tagore Park, and Begum Hazarat Mahal Park serve as sanctuaries amidst the urban sprawl, where nature’s embrace soothes the soul. Emerging as a beacon of transformation, Parivartan Chowk has become a focal point for various rallies, processions, and demonstrations advocating for social justice and Buddhist values. Its very existence serves as an eternal reminder of the transformative power of change and the pursuit of enlightenment.

Bahujan Samaj Party, upon assuming power, embarked on a noble endeavor – to honor the revered Buddha by constructing grand public facilities. Among these architectural gems, Baudh Vihar Shanti Upvan stands as a beacon of serenity and spiritual enlightenment. Situated gracefully along the bustling VIP Road, it sprawls across a serene expanse of 32.5 acres. The moment one steps through the grand entrance, a sense of tranquility washes over the soul. An awe-inspiring 18-foot-tall marble statue of Gautam Buddha, the embodiment of peace and wisdom, stands as the centerpiece, flanked by two majestic fountains that cascade gracefully, their waters mirroring the tranquility within. The Vihara, a haven for Buddhist monks, offers a tranquil abode for around 10-12 Bhikkhus. A spacious dining hall, capable of accommodating approximately 60 individuals, provides sustenance for both body and spirit. The complex further encompasses a treasure trove of knowledge within its library, a serene meditation hall where one can commune with the inner self, and dormitories that offer solace to both Bhikkhus and visiting scholars.
The roots of Buddhism in Lucknow run deep, its influence permeating the city’s heritage and customs, as reflected in its captivating folklore. The Buddhist community in Lucknow is a diverse mosaic, encompassing Bengali Barua Buddhists, Scheduled Castes, and Other Backward Classes, each group enriching the city’s spiritual tapestry. In the contemporary world, a thriving network of Bhikkhus, Baudh Viharas, parks, and chowks acts as a catalyst for the expansion of Buddhism, enlightening the lives of Lucknow’s inhabitants.

In the bustling lanes of Naka Hindola, a historic neighbourhood of Lucknow, stands a majestic edifice that bears witness to the glorious legacy of the Sikh faith in the city of Nawabs. This is the Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara, also known as Bada Gurdwara, the first and the foremost Gurdwara of Lucknow. It is not only a place of worship but also a cultural centre, a social service provider, and a symbol of communal harmony.

The Gurdwara has a special significance for the Sikhs, as it is believed to be the place where Guru Nanak Dev, the founder and the first guru of Sikhism, spent a night during his first ‘Udasi’, or spiritual journey, between 1497 and 1509. He was travelling from Haridwar to Ayodhya, and also visited Kakori, where he met Bhagat Bikhan, a medieval saint whose hymns are enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikhs. This Gurdwara in Lucknow was built in 1898 by Rai Bahadur Sardar Saligram Singh, who came to know about this historical fact and bought the land to honour the guru. The records that documented the history of the Gurdwara were lost in the flames of Partition, but the oral tradition has kept the memory alive.

The Gurdwara is also the only one in the state, if not the country, where all the festivals and events of the Sikh community are celebrated with fervour and devotion. It is here that the tradition of Nagar Kirtan, a religious procession with hymns and music, was started in the city. On the eve of Guru Nanak Jayanti, the birth anniversary of the guru, the Gurdwara is thronged by devotees who pay their respects and seek blessings. The Gurdwara is adorned with lights and flowers, and the air is filled with the fragrance of incense and the sound of prayers.

The Gurdwara has also been a refuge for many during the turbulent times of history. It provided shelter and solace to the Sikhs who faced persecution and violence during the Partition and the 1984 riots. It also organised several inter-faith conferences to promote peace and harmony and uphold the Ganga-Jamuna culture of Awadh.The Gurdwara has also been a benefactor of the poor and needy and has made significant contributions in the fields of education and healthcare. During the first lockdown due to Covid-19, it tirelessly helped the migrant workers and ensured that no one went hungry.

The Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara Naka Hindola is thus a shining example of the Sikh spirit of service, sacrifice, and solidarity. It is a beacon of hope and faith for the people of Lucknow and beyond. It is a testimony to the rich and vibrant heritage of the Sikh community in the city of Nawabs.

Remember Raj Kumar in Mere Huzoor (1968), shot in Lucknow, where he pronounces powerfully and skillfully: “Kaun se aise sheher mein kaun si aisi Firdaus hai jisey hum nahin jaante!”

Then came Palki’s opening song (1967), sung by Mohammad Rafi for Rajendra Kumar, “Aye sheher e Lucknow tujhe mera salaam hai” praising the historic city.

And who doesn’t know that Guru Dutt shot Chaudhvin ka Chand in 1960 in Lucknow. The movie begins by lauding Lucknow at least five times in the song: “Ye Laknau ki sar-zameen, ye rang roop ka chaman, ye husn-o-ishq ka watan, yehi to wo muqaam hai.”

The lyrics by Shakeel Badayuni, who is closely associated with the city, conclude with the words:  “Nibhaye apni shaan bhi, Badhaye dil ki shaan bhi, Hain aise meherbaan bhi, ye Lakhnau ki sar zameen.”

In Dedh Ishqiya, the Begum Para of Mehmoodabad was brought to life by Madhuri Dixit. Begum Para, extremely beautiful, poised and graceful, meets Naseeruddin Shah, the nawabi poet to dissolve into the sublime cultural richness of the city where people of different religions have been living side by side for centuries, speaking the common language of love. Many a tehzeeb shown on the silver screen is inspired by the rich sophistication of people from different walks of life.

Lucknow is said to be one of the world’s most noteworthy cities for Muslim culture, but hasn’t the culture of Hindus blended and amalgamated customarily so well? It is this most alluring blended way of life that interests the world and is more than once captured and highlighted in Hindi motion pictures time and again. One of the reasons of the profound fascination to the way of life in Lucknow is the incredibly respectful and polished way of talking of the individuals which cannot be ignored by film creators. Have you heard Agha in Sansar from 1951 say, Lucknow chalo ab rani, Bambai ka bigda paani sung by Geeta Dutt and G.M. Durrani?

Could Bollywood become what it is nowadays without the Lakhnavi touch? Customarily Lucknow has impacted Bollywood’s movies in different ways be it shooting, scriptwriting or story background. Lucknow is a city praised by Mirza Ghalib. It is the domestic of Mir Taqi Mir, Mir Anees, Mirza Dabeer, Begum Akhtar, Naushad Ali, Talat Mehmood, Kaifi Azmi, Javed Akhtar, Majrooh Sultanpuri, Sudhir Mishra, Amrit Lal Nagar, Amitabh Bhattacharya, Wajahat Mirza, Birju Maharaj, Nadira Babbar and Atul Tiwari among others. Theatre bunches have moreover been dynamic within the city playing a significant role in bringing Bollywood to its center. 

Lucknow had a huge impact on the Hindi film industry. This is evident from the fact that Pakeezah’s song ‘Chalo Dildar Chalo, Chaand ke Paar chalo’ (1972) was shot against the backdrop of the Gomti River. In the same year, a film called Gomti Ke Kinare starring Meena Kumari was also released.

Muzaffar Ali, also from Lucknow, shot one of the most famous Hindi films here, “Umrao Jaan” (1981). Recalling those days of shooting in Lucknow with Rekha, Farouque Sheikh, Naseeruddin Shah for the iconic classic, Muzaffar Ali said, “I am reminded of a Persian couplet of Emperor Akbar: ‘In the petals of the rose are not dew drops…But tears fallen from the eyes of the nightingale’ What goes into a lens is the pure heartfelt emotion; it is this that makes us stop to think what makes film worthy of a city…or cities worthy of a film and Lucknow certainly is the latter”

Satyajit Ray’s Shatranj Ke Khiladi (1977) was also shot in Lucknow and unlike most of his films in Bengali, the dialogue in this film was in Urdu and Hindi.

Interestingly on some instances, Lucknow has also been used to depict some cities of Pakistan as well, like in Gadar: Ek Prem Katha and recently in the blockbuster sequel of the franchise, Gadar 2.

Other notable movies in the city have been Ashok Kumar’s Najma (1943), Rajendra Kumar and Sadhna’s Mere Mehboob (1963) and Anwar (2007).

A range of films have also depicted the musical tradition of Lucknow and glamorized the city’s courtesans, Muslim nobility and its provincial history. Lucknow is the perfect setting for a rustic gangster movie or a serene period drama set in the early 1900s. Lucknow easily provides the backdrop for both these genres and more. The many centuries-old cultures, the fusion of art and technology, and the history behind this picturesque city make Lucknow the epitome of India that no other city can match. A particularly beloved historical drama, the hit, Shootout at Lokhandwala was filmed in Lucknow as it still conveys the Mumbai feel of the 80s.

The list of Bollywood movies shot in Lucknow over the last few years is extensive with many more in the pipeline. Some actors believe it is due to the lush greenery and hassle free shooting environment. Director Habib Faisal shot his movie called Daawat-e-Ishq with Aditya Roy Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra here (even though the story of the movie is based in Hyderabad). The movie might have chosen Lucknow as a destination so to showcase the luscious food items that are available exclusively in the lanes of Lucknow. Tanu weds Manu along with its sequel, Tanu Weds Man Returns, a popular film franchise starring Kangana Ranaut and R Madhavan was also shot here. There are many other movies in the recent years that have been shot here and every other month, continuous shooting keep on happening and with the advent of web series, Lucknow remains a favorite for shooting destinations in India.

It is widely known that Uttar Pradesh’s capital city, Lucknow, is a magnet for Hindi films, and the city’s inhabitants are equally fanatical in their admiration for the stars. Bollywood films often feature the cast and crew in Lucknow, and the local cuisine, such as biryani and Chaat, is often the most popular dish on the set. The combination of enthusiastic audiences, scenic locations, delectable cuisine, and a fusion of traditional Indian culture are some of the reasons for the enduring popularity of Bollywood in Lucknow.

Manzilat, who is a great-grandchild of the Nawab of Lucknow (Wajid Ali Shah) and the Begum of Hazrat Mahal (Begum Hazrat), runs a house-restaurant that serves a variety of royal dishes, particularly Kolkata biryani, which he believes has its roots in the Lucknow region of India.

The last Nawab of Lucknow was forced to flee the city by the British in 1856. He was taken to a small town outside Calcutta, which is now Kolkata. He was heartbroken to have to leave the city he loved so much, so he decided to set up a mini Lucknow (chota) in Metiaiabruz. This helped him stay connected to the city and his memories of it. This decision will have a huge impact on the local culture of Calcutta.

Wajid Ali Shah introduced the region to various sports like kite flying, cockfighting, poetry, etc. One of the most important contributions to the local culture is food, and biryani is one of them. So what we now call Kolkata Biryani is actually Biryani from Lucknow, the city of the Nawabs.

Manzilat Fatima, the king’s great-granddaughter, explained the nature of the signature dish: “You have the Awadh biryani in Kolkata. They are like cousins ​​in a family.” For the past five years, the 55-year-old has run Manzilat’s, a family restaurant that aims to continue the royal culinary legacy.

Royal Cousins

Wajid Ali Shah was a patron of the arts, music, poetry, theatre, and gastronomy, the art of cooking and enjoying good food. “Although he was no longer a Badshah (Emperor), Wajid Ali Shah was born a Nawab. His love of gastronomy has shaped Lucknowi Biryani since he came to Kolkata, the biryani became what we enjoy today as Kolkata Biryani,” said Manzilat.

At the time, potatoes were considered a delicious nayab (exotic). Although common mortals could not afford to buy this vegetable, this vegetable was introduced into the royal kitchen. “Because it has the ability to absorb all the aroma of spices, it adds more flavor when added to dishes. This proposal was easily accepted by the king and the people. After his death, when his mulazims (workers) were unemployed, they went to the cities and this biryani spread in Kolkata became popular,” explained Manzilat.

She explained what makes Awadhi and Kolkata biryani different from other places. “Since Nawab was of a nazuk mizaz (fragile nature) spicy food was not to their taste. This makes Awadhi food delicate and light, as well as extremely aromatic and rich, compared to Hyderabadi, Muradabadi and other Southern biryanis. Others use more spices and buttermilk. We feel full even after eating one or two pieces of lukma (mouthfuls). There is a class in Awadh food!” she said with pride.

Speaking about the unique species and cooking methods she uses to cook Kolkata biryani, Manzilat explained that firstly she prepared Korma, which was added as a layer to the utensil. After that, she added a layer of boiled potatoes, savored with ghee, salt, and spices. Lastly, she added a layer of boiled rice and flavored it with ghee and saffron. She also exclaimed that when cooked in logs and matkas (clay utensils), it gave a smoky flavor.”

She went on to reveal that she cooked biryani with regularly used spices like kebab chini, nutmeg, shah jeera, mace, cardamom and cloves. And in some Awadhi specialties, she used special Awadhi spices and herbs like paan ki jad, khas ki jad, patthar ke phool (herbs). They are known to be more fragrant and strong. The only trick she said about the cooking was the ratio of spices used, it made a huge difference.

Learnt Cooking Through Letters

Manzilat recalled that when she started cooking at the age of 10, she was not interested at first. She was living with her father in Aligarh and at that time, ordering food from outside was not as relevant as it is today. So she had to cook along with a helper and would serve kacha pakka (half-cooked) food to her father. “Sometimes, there would be more water in khichdi and sometimes rice would be half-cooked. I would fail to make a perfect meal,” she said with a laugh.

Often, her mother would come to her rescue. She would write letters to Manzilat and those letters had different recipes and their cooking method written in Urdu. During vacations when they were home, Manzilat used to learn from her. “The first thing I learnt from her was shami kebab. My father relished it,” she recalled.

After marriage, Manzilat settled in Kolkata. She loved to have guests of her husband and friends of her children. Through her cooking, she developed a keen interest in food over the years. But she never thought she would make a career out of it.

In a bid to keep the legacy of royal delicacies alive, she set up Manzilat’s home diner in Kasbah of Kolkata in 2018. Manzilat expressed that, “All the Nawabs were very fond of food and Awadhi cuisine is very popular but not so popular outside Lucknow. People even in Lucknow and Metiabruz do not know the history associated with the food. I wanted to contribute towards carrying the legacy of my family before the world forgets our lineage and the relevance of food.”

With the help of four employees, Manzilat runs her home restaurant, serving gourmet food from around the world, including Japan, China, Abu Dhabi, Toronto, New Jersey and Singapore.

Her mission, as eloquently put by her is, “not to earn from a commercial set up, but to spread awareness on the history of Awadh, its last King Wajid Ali Shah, freedom fighter Begum Hazrat Mahal, and our family history. For this, I get immense love, honor, and respect, which is priceless. That is my real earning,”

Sheermal is the go-to flatbread for iftar during Ramadan, and it’s probably why it’s most popular in Muslim-populated areas.

It’s believed to have come from Persia and made its way to India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan via Silk Street. Some say it was created as a result of an experiment by a local baker named Mahmood, who’s also known for his invention of Nihari.

The Mughals brought it with them when they visited India, and they used it to fill Galouti-style kebabs for the toothless ruler of Lucknow. It’s made of all-purpose flour with saffron and is softened with milk. It has a delicate taste and pairs perfectly with fiery Nihari or Salan.

 Different Indian cities have their own unique forms of Sheermal, and it is most commonly found in the older regions. In India, Sheermal is traditionally rounded, with saffron strings, but in Bhopal it is rectangular in shape. Buffalo milk, a natural sweetener, is used to prepare a gentler dough form for Sheermal. Some chefs add kewra to it, and cloves are also used in Bhopal.

Lucknow is also home to Sheermal Wali Gali, which was set up amid the rule of the Nawabs and is an entire street filled with bakeries that let out the smell of freshly baked bread. The road is additionally home to other sorts of flatbread like naan, baqar khani and taftan. There’s a Persian saying which goes, “Nan-e-Lucknow, shireen ast”. It interprets to “Lucknow’s Sheermal is the sweetest bread”. 

Kinds of Sheermal…

Sheermal Gali is a Sheermal pardise, home to a variety of flavors, shapes as well as sizes. Some of the varieties you will find there are:

The most popular Sheermal is the slightly sweetened Everyday Sheermal, which is the most basic Sheermal available.

Baqar khani Sheermal: This is your everyday Sheermal in XL size. This Sheermal has a diameter of 10 inch or more. Saffron Sheermal is commonly used in marriages.

Hazri Sheermal: The thinnest variety available, this is mostly used as giveaways during Muharram.

The Sheermal of Zafrani is the most potent of the Sheermals, with a mild saffron flavor and a pale to dark yellow color. It is an ideal addition to kebabs.

Sheermal is a traditional Indian bread that can be customized to one’s liking, with the addition of color, saffron, and size.

Nowadays, it is baked commercially, and various recipes have been developed in various parts of India. In some cases, baking soda is used as a leavened to make the bread tenderer. Despite the inclusion of ingredients that were not included in the original recipe, such as baking soda and cardamom, and the addition of other spices, Sheermal remains a nostalgic reminder of the noble days of the Nawabs.

Ali Hussain Sheermal is known for being Lucknow’s oldest Sheermal shop. It started as ‘Mohammadu’s Jaanashin’ in the year 1830. Today, the shop is managed by the 6th-generation of this family, and the workers have been associated with it for generations.

According to legend, during the reign of the Nawab of Lucknow (Nasiruddin Haider), a man named Mahmood opened a small restaurant at the foot of the Mahal. It was here that Nihari became the star of the show. He apparently cooked a new version of paratha along with Nihari and it came to be called Sheermal. The head chef at the time was Ali Hussain who later established his own stall. From that moment on, Sheermal became an integral part of the city’s life.

On 6 March 1858, under the command of the British commander-in-chief, Colonel Colin Campbell, the last British assault on the ancient city of Lucknow took place. The army was composed of a mixture of Englishmen, Scottish men, Sikhs, Bengali men, and even Nepalese men.

The city, loved by successive Nawabs of India, was full of walled gardens and palaces, mosques and tombs, and tightly packed houses. Many of these fine gardens, mosques and palaces were in ruins. Some places, like Secundra bagh, which the Highlanders stormed on 6 November 1857, still bore the corpses of hundreds of defeated rebels’ sepoys.

The survivors of the rebels and the guards, the remnants of the rebellious sepoy troops from all over Northern India, the common people of the city, the warriors and the mercenaries from the surrounding hills, fought that day as fiercely as they had fought since the day they captured the city and encircled the British battalion at their Residency on the 30th of June, 1857.

 Delhi and Kanpur were under British control. The armed forces marched towards Jhansi and Gwalior. And the wild and unruly Lucknow did not seem to last much longer. By the 21st of March, it was all over.

Yes, the British did conquer many things that summer, great lands, cities, unimaginable wealth, and an empire, but there will never be anyone to claim, tame, or diminish the many gems of India that were despoiled during those scorching months.

Her name was Begum Hazrat Mahal, and this is her story…

This is a story that sounds like a best-selling novel or a big-budget movie. The poor girl who became a courtesan. The bespectacled Nawab who made the courtesan, his lover. The Begum who never gave up, even after everyone else did.

Hazrat Mahal’s birth and early life are lost to history. But what we do know is that it was a painful and tragic time. The most popular version of the story states that Hazrat Mahal was born on an undetermined date and her name was Muhammed Khanum. Her parents converted her into a dancer and sold her to the harem of the Awadh ruler.

Her life began there as a ‘Khawasin’ (maid) before she was ‘elevated’ to ‘Pari’ (fairy), and finally ‘Begum’ after she became ‘Wajid’ Ali Shah’s ‘mistress’. When she bore him a son, ‘Birjis’ Qadar,’ the ‘Tajdaar’ of the ‘Awadh’ was so delighted that he married her first to produce a legitimate successor, naming her ‘Hazrat Mahal’, the name she would go down in history to be known as.

The life of Hazrat Mahal was quite different from that of many such begums. In fact, the Nawab later divorced her as other wives came into his life. However, the real turning point in the history of Awadh and the life of the Begum occurred in 1856. That year, the East India Company took over the entire state of Awadh.

In February 1856, Awadh and many other states were annexed. The annexation itself was easy. At that time, the Awadh army was in a state of mutiny. The Nawab consented to be retired to the city. He left for Calcutta on the first day of May 1856. He arrived there on the second day of the month. He spent the remainder of his life in the city. He built a’mini Lucknow’ in exile. Hazrat Mahal along with her son did not accompany him. She was a brave and charismatic woman. She was determined to fight for her son’s rights and that of Awadh. She had the backing of courtiers, leaders, and people.

But passions alone don’t change nations’ destiny. Revolution does. And that’s exactly what was happening in North India at that time. Millions of ordinary Indians were beginning to resent the British. More than that, tens of thousands were joining the Indian army as sepoys or sahibs (soldiers) to fight for their cause. The resentment was fueled by the British’s highhandedness. It was a powder keg waiting to explode.

We all know that it all began in Meerut when a sepoy, named Mangal pandey, objected to the new cartridges for his rifle and refused to fire it. On March 29th 1857, Pandey was put to death. But the rebellion spread from there to Kanpur, to Delhi, and by June, thousands of rebellious sepoys were marching on Awadh.

Up until then, Hazrat Mahal, and her followers, including the Awadh nobility, had remained relatively silent. But, seizing the moment, they organized themselves and swept British rule from the state. They did so with the help of the local landlords, the nobility, and even the common peasants who flocked under the banner of the begum – a feat that may have surprised those who thought the fighting days of Awadh were over.

On the 5^th of June, Begum Hazrat Mahal crowned her son, Birjis Qadar as the rightful king of Awadh and Raja jai Lal was named as his military commander.

The battle of chinhat, fought in a small village on the banks of a mango tree on the 30th of June 1857, saw the defeat of the British, who were roundly defeated and retreated to their fort, the Residency, in Lucknow. From that day, Awadh was declared free from British rule.

William Howard Russell’s much-quoted line from My Indian Mutiny Diary sums up his feelings at the time – “This Begum exhibits great energy and ability. She has excited all Oudh to take up the interests of her son, and the chiefs have sworn to be faithful to him. The Begum declares undying war against us.”

Hazrat Mahal assumed power for a period of ten months as her son’s regent. She was supported not only by her supporters but also by the people of Awadh and even the late Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Jafar acknowledged her rule from Delhi. She would become a popular administrator, and many Indian and British accounts attest to the fact that she was not afraid of battle. According to some accounts, the Begum would go from one camp to the next, to boost morale with fiery speeches and to take part in battles.

An 1858 issue of The Times of London said, “She is a woman of greater strategic genius and courage than any of her generals.”

To put it another way, many British histories of the battle at Musa Bagh, in Lucknow, mention that the Begum personally fought and rallied the 9,000 rebels who were fighting there. She was also sometimes seen on an elephant in battle.

Over a century and a half later, it is difficult to summarize the Begum’s leadership and inspiration. But to give you some context – at the time – the Begum controlled the largest area of the rebel lands, commanded the largest rebel army of the war, and endured the longest against the invading British, who would bring powerful imperial forces to destroy Lucknow.

There were a number of factors that worked against her. The main one was the lack of unity among the rebels. The British, on the other hand, had a single commander whose sole objective was to eliminate every single rebel force before moving on to the next one. They had unhindered supply lines, advanced technology, and much more money and raw materials than the Begum. They had support from many Indian kingdoms as well as from Nepal. The Begum had her own will, limited supplies, disparate allies, and, ultimately, a lack of firepower.

On 18 March 1858, Lucknow fell to the British. The begum had been offered pensions, rule under British rule and mercy by the British, but she had refused them all. For her, it was all or nothing. She would remain that way until the end. She escaped from Lucknow before the fall of the city, and made her way into the Himalayan forests of the north, fighting fiercely against the pursuit of the British, before seeking sanctuary in Nepal.

The British protested with the Nepali ruler, but the Nepalese ruler refused to give her up. The British offered a pension to her to return as their regent in Lucknow, but she refused. Hazrat Mahal lived in Kathmandu for 16 years, slowly losing all of her wealth. She refused to return in surrender, and when she died on 7 April 1879, she had no money for a grave.

She is buried in a tiny grave in an encircled corner of Kathmandu’s Jama Masjid – undefeatable till the end. In a small victory, her son Birjis Qadar was allowed to return to Kathmandu with a pardon after his mother’s death. Warm memories that contrast starkly with the rest of the country seems intent on ignoring this brave begum, while others such as Rani Lakshmi bai and Mangal Pandey continue to be glorified in songs and movies. A postage stamp and an offering at her grave were issued by the government, who also made a documentary about her. It hardly seems enough to pay tribute to a woman who could have lived an opulent life, but instead chose an incredibly difficult but free life.

Even in the scorching heat of summer, the love story of Lucknow with Hanuman goes on. Pawan Putra fans still flock to Bada Mangal to see the monkey king. In Lucknow, Jyeshth is celebrated as the month of Hanuman (Jyeshth being the third month in the Hindu calendar) with the hymns to the king of monkeys. Bada Mangal is dedicated to the Pawan Putra we all know and like Lucknow; there are various theories about how it came to be.

Even before Superman was born, there was a god who knew that we Indians had the power to fly without wings, and that god was none other than the king of monkeys, Hanuman. If Ganesha is worshiped as vigna-harta in India, then Hanuman is also known as sankat mochan who helps people in their time of need.

Hanuman is one of the Hindu gods and an ardent devotee of Rama, who is one of the main characters in the Hindu epic Ramayana, and in various versions of the Ramayana. He is also mentioned in several other Hindu texts, including Mahabharata and various Puranas and Jain texts. In the Ramayana, Hanuman, who is a Vanara (monkey), participated in Rama’s war against Ravana, the demon king. Some texts portray him as an avatar of Lord Shiva. It is said that Hanuman is the son of the gods Anjana, Kesari, and Vayu, the God of the wind, and according to some stories, Vayu played a part in his birth.

Hanuman’s Day is celebrated every Tuesday in the month of Jyeshth. Over the years, Hanuman’s Day has come to be celebrated as a feast for the people of Lucknow, and the surrounding areas. What began as a simple affair of poori sabji and a few coolers during the summer months has now evolved into a full-fledged festival.

With over 5000 kiosks located in every village and locality of the city, the menu of Hanuman’s Day can be enjoyed by the people of all walks of life.

The menu ranges from poori-sabzi to chola bhatura and kadi-chawal. It also includes boondi, ice cream, laddoos, coldrinks, juices, halwa and kheer.

Despite the scorching heat in the city, scores of people indulge in prasad and worships on Bada Mangal. Hanuman devotees flock to temples every Tuesday during the holy month of Jyeshth in Lucknow. In a show of brotherhood and amity, both Hindus and Muslims take to the streets to celebrate the life of Hanuman. The echoing of the Hanuman Chalisa and the soothing sounds of the Sundarkand paath begin from the early morning. Some people walk for miles on their bare feet while others lie down on the roads to reach the temples to see their beloved deity.

Purana Hanuman Mandir in Aliganj is one of the finest examples of communal harmony of Awadh as it has a crescent over its dome which symbolizes the Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb of Lucknow.

The festival coincides with the months of May or June in the Gregorian calendar.

All major temples in the city – Dakshinmukhi Hanuman temple in Hazratganj, Purana and Naya Mandir in Aliganj, Chachi Kuan temple in Lal Kuan, Hanuman Setu temple and the Khatu Shyamji temple on the university road are decked up with flowers and lights.

Century old traditional fairs are organized around Hanuman temples; the idol is embellished with vermillion, chameli oil, scent and flowers. A special 51-kg besan ka laddu is prepared at the Aminabad Hanuman Temple.

The police have taken special measures to ensure that traffic is not disturbed at different places. As the temperature is rising, voluntary organizations have installed water and cold drinks kiosks for the devotees. Bhandaras cost anywhere between Rs 35000 to Rs 300000.

According to the priests, the festival begins with the traditional offering of a chola to the deity. Nowadays, with the help of technology, people are able to watch darshan via webcam in some temples.

There are very few rituals in the festival, but the tradition of writing a letter to Lord Hanuman persists. The priests continue the tradition of reading these letters to Lord Hanuman in the night.

The origin of Bada Mangal is one of the most fascinating aspects of the festival. There are many fascinating stories behind the origins of the festival. The first of these stories is about the plague in Lucknow. The then Nawab of Lucknow, Asaf ud daullah, prayed for the prosperity of the people from the Monkey King. Therefore, he declared the first Tuesday of Jyeshth month as Lord Hanuman’s day.

In the second version of the legend, Lord Hanuman was accidentally shot by Bharat while attempting to procure Sanjeevani booti for Lakshman in the vicinity of Lakshmanpur, now known as Lucknow. Consequently, Hanuman fell to the ground, and the festival has been commemorated and celebrated ever since.

The most well-known theory that has found its way into books and newspapers is the one that revolves around the triumph of the Hindu god Hanuman. Bada Mangal is a festival that celebrates the birth of a child. The festival is associated with the second wife of the Nawab Shuja ud-Duallah. She had no children. She was devoutly religious to Hanuman and built a temple to him. Soon after that, she gave birth to a child and declared this festival.

Janmashtami is celebrated in Lucknow on Lord Krishna’s birth anniversary, and it is not uncommon to think of Wajid Ali Shah on this day. After all, Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of the city, loved the concept of Krishna as the supreme lover, and his love affair with Radha symbolizes the ultimate union of the lover with the beloved and the creature with the creator.

Lyrical songs with a strong sense of intimacy and praise for Krishna were Wajid Ali shah’s favorite. Today, these songs are an integral part of Kathak, the dance form that was performed and patronized by the last ruler of Lucknow.

Wajid Ali Shah was first captivated by the tales told by professional Kathaks about Krishna’s adventures in Mathura where it is said the Hindu god grew up with a family of cattle-breeders.

Wajid Ali Shah was dethroned by the British in 1856, an event that led to a mutiny against colonial power a year later.

The King was not born with the capacity to rule. He did not ascend to the throne until he was fifteen years old. Prior to his accession to the throne, he spent his time indulging in his hobbies of music, dancing, and reading. When tutors returned home to instruct the young prince in Persian and Arabic, they would find him tapping his foot to the tune of an unseen orchestra rather than focusing on the lessons.

During his years as the heiress, he continued to write poetry and direct plays. His first play was performed in 1843 at a private function, which was about Radha and Krishna’s love story. A troupe of Brahmin artists from Mathura were cast as the main characters, with his favorite wives playing the roles of milkmaids.

 “This was an important moment in the history of Indian theatre. For the first time a Muslim monarch was directing a play about Lord Krishna and his amorous affairs, an event which could only please his many Hindu subjects,” writes Rosie Llewellyn-Jones in The Last King in India.

According to the historian, this king was entranced by the tale of Krishna. The great lover was in love with the romantic hero who loved women. Hence, the king is also called Kanhaiya. One of Krishna’s many names is Kanhaiya.

Wajid Ali Shah’s love for Krishna adds to his reputation as the syncretic monarch who celebrates Hindu festivals and traditions with pride. It also explains Wajid Ali Shah’s affection for most of his subjects.

According to John Shakespeare, a British Resident at the time, “the heir apparent temper is fickle and capricious. This makes him an unsuitable successor to the throne in the eyes of the British, even before he assumed the throne.”

The British hated him mainly because he was loved by the people of the city, which made it even more difficult for them to conquer this rich region of South Asia, home to 92 palaces; countless gardens; hundreds of temples; mosques; hundreds of markets filled with silk, satin, and grains; and above all, a culture where ‘you’ always came before ‘me’                                          

Despite his popularity with the population, there were still other grievances against him, such as his spending of his days and nights in apartments only accessible to women, and his apparent acceptance of debauchery, extravagant expenditure, and immoral activities.

When he assumed the throne in the year 1847, he wrote two lengthy and highly romantic poetry collections, entitled River of Love and the Ocean of Love, which he adapted into a musical theater performance, a highly popular folk theater tradition in the region that also tells and recreates the story of Krishna.

Kenize Mourad wrote an imaginative account of one of the performances in his book The City of Gold and Silver: “At the end of the show, Wajid Ali Shah arrived amid hoots and hollers. Waving a white muslin handkerchief in front of him, her long white hair cascades past her shoulders, and her whole body is streaked with blue powder of fine-ground turquoise, pearls, and emeralds. All around him, dressed as gopis were his beautiful fairies decked out in their finest jewels”.

At the same show, he wrote an Urdu poem in which Krishna falls in love with Radha, only to be rejected by Radha’s family, who sees Krishna as nothing but a cattle-herd. They resist their love, and Krishna is arrested. Desperately, Krishna turns away all the milkmaids, and dances the dance of despair.

An invigorating Kathak dance performance is the gift of the King to the people in the city today. He places a long silk scarf on the floor and the dancers dance along with him. His speed is incredible. He is fat, but he looks as if he is flying. He sketches figures with his feet. When the music ends, the audience is surprised to see that the cloth crumpled on the floor has the initials of the ruler.

Then, the fireworks and the celebrations follow where people from all over the city come to the Qaiserbagh Palace or the gardens of Caesar’s Palace in their finest attire. There is a long-standing relationship between the rulers and the ruled. Again they hear the king say that all evil comes from the ignorance of the people and that only by understanding each other’s culture will the people value and respect one another. This was a practice he nearly mastered in Lucknow over a century ago, but there are still those who insist on trying to define what patriotism means to us.

Awadhi Biryani is a culinary delicacy born in Lucknow, India’s social capital. It is renowned for its pith, which is the delicate meat that melts in the mouth and evokes a sense of taste, typically saffron. Its prestige transcends mere food; it is a symbol of a rich history, a grand transformation, and an embodiment of delicate flavors.

It is believed that the origin of the name “Awadhi biryani” can be traced back to the establishment of the Nawab of Awadh, which took place in 1722 under the command of Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah. The Nawab, a Persian nobleman of immense discretion and military prowess, accepted the administration of the area. Under his rule, Awadh prospered as a prosperous and independent state, and Lucknow prospered as its vibrant social hub. The combination of the city’s social atmosphere and prosperity provided the ideal environment for the development of the beloved Awadhi biryani.

The region had already been introduced to biryani during the time of the Mughals; however, the quality of biryani from that period is inferior to the refined biryani from Awadhi. The Awadh Nawabs had a desire for a dish that was full of flavors and aromas; however, it had to be delicately adjusted in flavor. The challenge lay in incorporating the flavors of spices into the dish without overpowering the senses with each bite.

The Awadhi chefs created an ingenious arrangement by wrapping the entire spice list in cheesecloth. This allowed the spices to penetrate the food without overpowering it. This ingenious adaptation became the signature of the Awadhi biryani, an orchestra of spices that sang rather than shouted.

Awadhi Biryani, masterfully cooked in pakki fashion, is a masterpiece of culinary skill. This dish involves the cooking of the meat and rice separately, before joining them together and slowly cooking them to perfection. Unlike other biryani, the Awadh version does not involve the addition of whole spices, but rather concentrates on the subtle flavors. This method ensures that each grain of rice and each piece of meat is imbued with the essence of the spice, resulting in a harmonious combination of flavors.

Awadhi Biryani is delicate and one-of-a-kind. It stands out from other biryani like Hyderabadi Biryani or Thalassery Biryani because it uses sweet ingredients sparingly. It’s a mix of sweet and savory flavors without losing the authenticity of the biryani. It’s a reflection of the Nawabs’ taste and how they wanted their biryani to be delicate and not too spicy.

Biryani is a dish consisting of a rich broth composed of carefully selected meat, carefully selected for its tenderness, and a combination of fragrant spices, counted in the presence of garlic, ginger glue, and ruddy chili. When the meat is simmered for a while, its pith is incorporated into the broth, resulting in a generous base of flavor. The chefs’ skill shines through as they delicately combine garlic, ginger, and spices to create a beautiful Yakhni broth, a symphony of flavors that evokes convention and heritage. The combination of spices culminates in a waltz, with cardamom and mace intertwining to form a complex blend of flavors that epitomizes Awadhi cooking.

The quintessence of the biryani is created through the subtleties of cooking. The yakhni marinated rice is laden with flavors, drained, and topped with cream. It could be described as an orchestra of fragrances as each ingredient is presented to create a harmonious adaptation. The rice that retains its flavors and aromas is then placed in the pot where it undergoes the process of dum cooking, transforming it into a magnificently memorable work of art.

Awadhi Biryani is an integral part of the intricate embroidery of the culinary landscape of Lucknow. The journey of this delicacy would not be complete without mentioning the remarkable establishments that have elevated it to the highest level of craftsmanship. Notable names such as ‘Lalla’ and ‘Idris’ Biryani have carved their names into the annals of the city’s culinary history, offering a glimpse into the noble tastes of the Nawabs and the legacy of the city’s patronage.

Biryani is a dish that has a long history of being a delicious food. It is a testament to the noble taste of the Nawabs, the ingenuity of the chefs, and the wealth of Lucknow’s history. It is a dish that embodies the spirit of solidarity, as it brings people together to enjoy not a fair dinner, but an unforgettable experience. The delicate flavors, meticulous preparation, and the rich history of Lucknow have made Awadhi biryani more than just a fair dish; it is a social gem that continues to spread its magic across India and beyond.

The short story (rather a play in Urdu/Hindi) originally by a great author of his times, Munshi Premchand translated and explained by Derek Davis was published in the Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society, Third Series, Volume 25, Part 2, April 2015, Cambridge University Press. (The Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain & Ireland was established on 15th march 1823 by the famous Sanskrit scientist, Henry Thomas Colebrooke. The society was given its royal charter on 11 August 1824 by King George IV. The charter stated that the society was to investigate matters relating to Asia and to promote science, literature, and the arts. Some of the famous members of the society were: Sir Richard Burton (from 1821-1890), the explorer, writer, and translator of ‘One Thousand and One Nines’ and the ‘Kama Sutra’. Sir Aurel Stein, the famous archaeologist, explorer, and explorer of the Silk Road. Rajendra Nath Tagore, the famous Bengal writer and poet, was a member of the society.)

About Munshi Premchand : Premchand was an Indian novelist, short story writer, and playwright. He is considered to be one of the greatest writers of modern Hindi literature. He is known for his novels, short stories, essays, and translations of foreign literature into Hindi. Premchand was born Dhanpat Rai on 31 July 1880. His pen name was Nawab Rai, but he changed it to Premchand. He is known as the “Emperor among Novelists” among Hindi writers. He wrote over a dozen novels and several short stories in the late 1800s and early 1900s. He is well-known for his modern Hindi literature. He was a pioneer in the field of social fiction in India and wrote several collections of short stories in the early 20th century. Some of his best-known works are: Godaan (1907), Karmabhoomi (1908), Gaban (1909), Mansarovar (1910), Idgah (1911), and Soz-E-Watan, (1912).

Introduction

The Chess Players (1924) is one of Premchand’s best known stories. Elegantly constructed and beautifully written, it was published like most of his work in two versions, his Urdu combining rich tradition with mastery of European form, his Hindi compelling in its sudden literary assurance. Satyajit Ray, a childhood visitor to Lucknow was so struck by a Bengali translation that he returned years later to make his film classic Shatranj ke Khiladi (1977)

THE CHESS MATCH (URDU)

It was Nawab Wajid Ali Shah’s time. Lucknow was sunk in a riot of luxury. Everyone, small and great, pursued pleasure. If dance spectaculars were staged in one place, the next man was relishing a haze of opium. In every walk of life revelry prevailed. In government, literature, social style, craftsmanship, commerce, everyone busied themselves with gratification. Pillars of the realm were slaves to wine-bibbing, poets were intoxicated with dalliance, craftsmen with turning out precious thread and fine embroidery, soldiers with partridge-fights, trades people with buying and selling eye -shadow and mouth-dye, perfume and oil, in a word the whole nation was caught in the shackles of self-indulgence. The daze of the drinking-cup clouded everyone’s eyes. No one knew what scholarly and scientific innovations were in train, where the peoples of the west were advancing by land and sea. Quail fought. Bets were being placed on partridge. Somewhere chausar was in play; the cry pau barah went up. Elsewhere battles had broken out at chess. Armies were being up-ended. The Nawab’s case was worse still. There was innovation at court in song and dance. New tricks, ever new routines were thought up to delight the spirit. So much so that, when holy men obtained charity instead of buying bread, they treated themselves to opium-blend or pure opium. Magnates’ sons studied under entertainment stars to gain proficiency in ready wit and repartee. Chess was an accepted nostrum for quickening powers of reason, acquiring presence of mind and sharpening the intellect. Even today one finds everywhere a class of persons who press the case vigorously. So if Mirza Sajjad Ali and Mir Roshan Ali spent the better part of their life sharpening their minds, no discerning person had occasion to object. As to ignoramuses, let them think what they wanted. Both gentlemen held hereditary land. They were free of concern about earning a living. What else were they to do? At daybreak the two gentlemen breakfasted and sat down at their chess-mat. They laid out the pieces and set about sharpening their minds. They were then beyond knowing when it was midday, mid-afternoon or evening. Time and again someone would come from inside the house to say food was ready. The answer was, “Right, we’re coming. Layout the spread.” But the delights of qorma and pulao” paled beside chess. Eventually, the cook was reduced to serving the food in the room and the two friends juggled the two activities in tandem, demonstrating their consummate dexterity. Sometimes the food was left untouched. It had been forgotten. Mirza Sajjad Ali’s establishment had no senior resident, so relaxed battles took place in his drawing-room. But that did not mean that the rest of Mirza’s household was happy with his pursuit. On the contrary, in the quarter, among the servants, women, maids alike a carping critique was kept up;” Very ill-fated game. Leaves a house ruined. Heaven forbid anyone form the habit, he’s no use to God, no use to man. It’s the washer man’s dog all over again: no place at home or work. “Dreadful disease”. The real bugbear was that the Begum Sahiba too increasingly raised her voice in protest at the pursuit. Her opportunities, though, were hard come by: She was still asleep when the game got underway. At night she had gone to sleep by the time the Mirza re-entered the house. She certainly vented a mindless, abusive anger. She snapped at the servants: “Master ordered betel. Has he? Tell him to come and get it himself. Lost the use of his feet. Has he?! Says he has no time now for food? Go and tip the food over his head, for him or the dogs. Who is here going to wait for him?” But the pièce de résistance was that she complained not so much about her husband as Mir Sahib. She awarded Mir Sahib Names like Loafer, Calamity or Scrounger. Possibly, in his protestations of innocence the Mirza had heaped all blame on Mir Sahib’s head.

One day the Begum Sahiba bad a headache, so she told the maid, “Go and call the Mirza. He needs to fetch medicine from the doctor’s.” “Run, be quick. My head’s splitting.” The maid went, the Mirza said: “Right, I’m just coming”. The Begum Sahiba was livid that she should have a headache and her husband is busy playing chess. Her face flushed and she told the maid to go and tell him to come at once, or she would go to the doctors herself. There was something untoward about her eyes. The Mirza was playing a gripping game. Two moves more and Mir Sahib would be checkmate. He said: “Is it that dying gasp? Can’t she show a little forbearance? Is the doctor going to dispense a magic spell to cure her headache?”

Mir Sahib ruled: “Go on, go and listen to her for a bit. Women are delicate creatures.”

Mirza: “Sure, why not go? You’re mate in two moves.”

Mir: “Don’t you count on it, my dear Sir. The move I’ve come up with will set your pieces reeling, and mate you, but go and listen. Why, pray, upset her unnecessarily over such a trifle?”

Mirza: “That’s just it. I mean to mate you.”

Mir: “I shan’t play. You go and listen first.”

Mirza: “Come on, old man. It’ll mean going to the doctor’s. There’s no headache at all. It’s a dodge to harass me.”

Mir: “Even so, you’ll have to humor her.”

Mirza: “Alright, one move and I’ll go.

Mir: “Absolutely not, until you go and listen I shan’t touch the pieces.

Mirza Sahib was forced to go inside where a groaning Begum Sahiba said: “You’re so in love with your poxy chess that you wouldn’t bestir yourself if one was dying Chess has become the other woman. Save us from initiates like you.”

Mirza: *What could I do, Mir Sahib wouldn’t let me go. I’ve only just torn myself away with great difficulties.”

Begum: “Just because he’s a loafer, does he think others are? He has a family himself, or has he disposed of them all?”

Mirza:”He’s a thoroughly bad lot. When he comes, he rides roughshod over me; I’m forced to play him.”

Begum: “Why don’t you chase him off, like a dog?”

Mirza: “Good God. He’s my equal in age, a notch or two ahead of me in rank. I have to show him consideration.”

Begum: Then I’ll chase him off. If he takes offence, so be it. Who’s keeping me in bread? Queen takes amiss, forget about bliss. (To the maid) Abbasi, go and fetch the chessboard. Tell Mir Sahib the master won’t be playing; he should kindly leave and not show his face again

Mirza: “Just the outrage we need! Why disgrace me? Stop, Abbasi. Where are you running to, wretch?”

Begum: “Why won’t you let her go? Stop her, drink my blood! You’ve stopped her, stop me, shall we see? So saying, the Begum started with a shriek for the drawing room. The Mirza’s face paled. It became a picture. He began imploring his wife: “For God’s sake. As you revere the Martyr of Karbala! See my corpse, if you set foot inside!” But the Begum Sahiba heeded not a word. She approached the drawing-room door, yet all of a sudden at the prospect of facing a strange man with no niqab, her feet failed her. She peered inside. Happily the room was empty. Mir Sahib, counsel of necessity, had rearranged a few pieces and to establish his innocence was out on the terrace at the time taking forty paces. At that, the Begum Sahiba obtained her sought-after wish. Entering, she up-ended the game sent some pieces flying under the sofa, others outside, then pulling the door shut threw the bolt. Mir Sahib was at the door, saw the pieces come flying out, then hearing the clink of bangles realized that the Begum Sahiba had run riot. He quietly went off home.

Mirza said to the Begum Sahiba: “You’ve committed an outrage.”

Begum: “If that dumbo” comes here again, I’ll throw him out on the spot. It hardly bears saying this is not a bawdy house.” If you showed as much devotion to God, you’d be a saint.” While you people are playing chess, I’m bothering my head minding hearth and household grind. Do you take me for a servant? Are you off to the doctor’s or still making up your mind?”

The Mirza left the house, going not to the doctor’s but to Mir Sahib’s house where in apologetic tones, heart brimming with anguish, and he recounted the whole story. Mir Sahib laughed and said: “I realized as much when the maid brought news of a headache, that today’s signs were not good. She seems very intemperate. I mean to say, what high-handedness! You’ve over-indulged her, it’s not right. What business is it of hers what you do elsewhere? Her job is managing the home. What right has she to interfere in men’s affairs? Take my house, no one ever objects.”

Mirza: “Fair enough. But tell me, where are we going to meet?”

Mir: “What’s the problem now? There’s an ample house to hand. Settled, our venue’s here.”

Mirza: “But how am I to win the Begum Sahiba round? She was angry enough when I was at home. If l’m away, she might not leave me alive.”

Mir: “My dear Sir, let her rail. She’ll come round of her own accord in a few days. And do be a little firmer yourself.

(2)

Mir Sahib’s Begum Sahiba for some reason approved of Mir Sahib’s invisibility about the house. She made no complaint, therefore, at all over his leisure pursuit Rather if he was sometimes late setting off or a little dozy, she would prove to him that “When the master meditates, a reminder is in order.”      For these reasons Mir Sahib was under the impression that his Begum Sahiba was extremely civil, patient by temperament and faithful but when his chess-mat was laid out in their drawing room and the Begum Sahiba’s freedom from Mir Sahib’s continuing presence was first curtailed, great anguish took hold of her. Daily she longed to peer out of the door She began deliberating how to rid herself of the affliction!

Then the mutterings started among the servants. Until now they had spent all day in idleness snoring. Coming and goings at the house were none of their business or concern. At most they had to make a few visits to the bazaar. Now it was oppression round the clock. Sometimes the order was for betel, sometimes water, sometimes ice, and sometimes replenishing tobacco. The hookah glowed perpetually like some lover with a burning heart. They all approached the Begum Sahiba: “Ma’am, the master’s chess has become the bane of our lives. We’re getting blisters on our feet from running about all day. This is a game that goes on from morning to night. A game takes half-an-hour or an hour. Over and done with, and then you know, ma’am, what an ill-fated game it is. Anyone who forms the habit never recovers. Some disaster or other is bound to fall on the house. Whole quarters are known to have been destroyed by it, one after the other. The neighbors constantly turn on us. We’re ashamed to go out of the house.” The Begum Sahiba said: “1 don’t approve of the game myself at all. But what can I do?” “What influence do I have?”

The neighborhood’s few old timers began spreading all sorts of suspicions: “Now there can be no prosperity.” If this is the plight of our notables, then God preserve the realm. Chess will be the ruin of this kingdom. The omens are dire.”

In the kingdom weeping and wailing broke out. Farmers were robbed in broad daylight. But there was no one to hear their claims for redress. All the wealth of the villages was drained away to Lucknow and spent there on procuring trappings of extravagance. Jesters, mimes, kathak dancers and entertainment stars did brisk business. Gold coins rained down in serving-wenches parlors. Grandees’ sons would toss a gold coin with each puff of the hookah. At this rate of expenditure indebtedness to the English Company grew by the day. No one was concerned to repay it, to the point where not even the annual service charge could be paid. Time and again the Resident wrote pressing letters, issued threats. But the headiness of indulgence had the local population in harness. No one lent an ear.

Well, several months went by playing chess in Mir Sahib’s drawing-room. Ever new tricks were solved, ever new defences thrown up and laid low. Sometimes as they played a private fight would develop. Recourse would be had to name-calling.” But these sweet griefs were very soon healed. Sometimes even, an offended Mirza would depart home. Mir Sahib would take up the chess-mat, go and sit inside his house and swear oaths never to touch chess again. But come morning, the two friends were back together at their places. Sleep had banished all ill-feeling.

One day, as the two friends sat negotiating the quagmire of chess, a royal cavalryman called, complete with uniform and arms, asking for Mir Sahib by name. Mir Sahib froze, his self-possession deserted him. Heaven knew what woe had befallen him. He had the house doors secured and told the servants: “Say I’m not at home.”

The cavalryman asked: “If he’s not at home, where is he? He must be hiding somewhere!”

Servant: “I don’t know. That’s your answer from the house. What’s your business?

Cavalryman: “Why should I tell you my business? He’s been summoned to His Majesty. Maybe some soldiers are wanted for the army. He’s a landholder, what a lark!”

Servant: Right, kindly go. He’ll be told.”

Cavalryman: “This isn’t pass-the-parcel. I’ll be back early tomorrow and, after I’ve

searched him out, I’ll take him with me. My orders are to present him.”

The cavalryman departed. Mir Sahib’s spirit expired. Quailing, he said to the Mirza: “What happens now?”

Mirza: “It’s a great misfortune. I trust there’s no summons for me.”

Mir: “The wretch has said he’ll be back tomorrow.”

Mirza: “lt’s quite simply the judgment of Heaven. When soldiers are called up, one might as well be dead.” In my case, the mere sound of the word war brings on a fever.”

Mir: “In my case, reckon food and water off-limits as from today.”

Mirza: “Right, here’s a plan for avoiding him. Both of us will disappear. He can scour the whole city. Starting tomorrow we’ll cross the Gomti and the game can play out in some ruin. There. Who’s to know? The great man will turn up and go back with his tail between his legs.

Mir: “Right you are! Brilliant idea! By God, we’ll cross the Gomti tomorrow and install ourselves there.

Elsewhere, the Begum Sahiba was telling the cavalryman: “You took the part magnificently!” He answered: “I make fools like that dance with a click of the fingers. Chess has consumed all his brains and bravado. Watch him hang about the house now. He’ll be off in the morning and not back till dark.”

(3)

From that day on the two friends were out of the house before dawn and, a little rug underarm, a box stuffed with betel, crossed the Gomti and settled in an old ruined mosque, perhaps a relic of Mughal times. On the way they obtained bowl, tobacco and pipe and proceeded to the mosque. They spread the rug, filled the hookah and sat at the chess-mat. They were then lost to this world and the next. “Check”, “King en prise”. With the exception of these terms, not a word escaped their lips. Even a fasting ascetic would not be seated in such a state of immersion. At midday when hunger gnawed the two great men, keeping to the lanes, would eat at a baker’s stall and, after smoking a hookah-bowl, once again, obliterated in chess, savor defeat. Sometimes, the thought of food never occurred to them.

The country’s political tangles were now becoming daily more tangled. The Company’s forces were massing on Lucknow. Commotion broke out in the town. People, each taking their children, were fleeing off to the villages. But our two chess-playing friends were untouched by cares of office or loss of property. Leaving home they kept to the Lanes, so that no eye might fall on them. Even the neighbors caught no glimpse of them. Finally, the English troops reached the outskirts of Lucknow.

One day the two friends were sitting playing, Mir Sahib’s game was faltering. Mirza Sahib had him continually in check, when suddenly the Company’s army appeared advancing up the road ahead. The Company had decreed the occupation of Lucknow. On pretext of debt, it wanted to devour the kingdom. This was a moneylender’s move which today has all weak nations hobbled by the foot.

Mir Sahib: “The English troops are coming.”

Mirza: “Let them. Get out of check. Check!”

Mir: “I want to watch a moment. Let’s look from the ridge. What towering young men. My chest trembles at the sight.”

Mirza: “You have all the time in the world. What’s the hurry? Check again!”

Mir: “There’s artillery too. There must be five thousand of them. Red faces like monkeys.”

Mirza: “My dear sir, don’t beat about the bush. That’s check!”

Mir: “You’re pretty amazing yourself. Do figure out, now the town’s surrounded. How we’re going to get home.

Mirza: “When the moment comes, we’ll see. That’s check and mate.

The army had passed. The friends laid out another game. The Mirza said: “What do we do about food today?”

Mir: “I’m fasting today. Do you fancy a bite?”

Mirza: “Not me. I’m not sure what’s happening in the city”

Mir: “Nothing will be happening in the city. People will have finished their food and be taking their case. His Majesty Jan-e Alam will also have declared a rest. Or the wine-cup may be passing round.”

This time when the two friends sat down to play it was three o’ cock. This time the Mirza’s game was faltering. Meanwhile, sounds of the returning army were heard. Nawab Wajid Ali Shah had been deposed and the army was taking him off captive. In the city there was no uproar, no massacre, not even one desperado shed a drop of blood. The Nawab took leave of his home like a weeping breast-beating girl going off to her father-in-law’s house. The Begums cried, the Nawab cried, the matrons and the maids cried and that was that. The kingdom was at an end. Never in all time had the king of any country been deposed so peaceably, so un-forcibly. At least history held no precedent. This was not the non-violence in which the angels rejoice. It was abject. It left a name at which goddesses wept. The ruler of Lucknow had been carried off captive and Lucknow was floating in a dream-world of extravagance. It was the ultimate in political collapse.

Mirza: “The tyrants have taken His Exalted Majesty prisoner.”

Mir: “May be so. You’ll be the judge. Take that, check!”

Mirza: “Do pause a moment, my good Sir. Just now my mind is not on the game. His Exalted Majesty will be weeping tear of blood. The light has gone out in Lucknow.

Mir: “He should weep. Where’s such luxury to be had in European clink.” That’s check!”

Mirza: “Nobody’s luck lasts forever. What grievous misfortune. It’s a trial from heaven”

Mir: “Yes it is. Check again. That’s it, next check is mate. You can’t escape.”

Mirza: “You’re very hard-hearted, by god. You can witness a life-diminishing catastrophe like this and feel no shock. Alas for His Majesty Jan-e-Alam! Now there’s no one left to appreciate talent. Lucknow too is now a desert.

Mir: “First save your own king’s life, and then flail yourself for His Luminous Majesty. That’s check and mate! Your hand on it!”

The army with the captured Nawab passed from view. As they went, the Mirza laid out a new game. The hurt of defeat rankles. Mir Sahib said “Come, let’s chant a marsiya on the Nawab Sahib’s pitiful plight But the Mirza’s loyalty and poetic devotion had faded with his defeat. He was impatient to avenge the loss.

(4)

It was dusk. In the mosque’s ruins bats started sounding the call. Swallows, each stuck to its nest, began the evening prayers. But the two players were locked in the game like two bloodthirsty champions jousting with death. The Mirza had managed to lose three games running and this fourth game was not looking good. Each time, vowing to win, rallying finely, he gave of his very best but move after move turned out wrong until the whole game miscarried. At this point Mir Sahib recited ghazals, sang thumris, threw out jibes and innuendos, and predicted doom in double-entendre and puns. He was as pleased as if hidden treasure had come his way. Mirza Sahib listening to these fine flourishes grew irritated and frowning repeatedly said: “Do not change your move, Sir. How can you move and immediately alter it? Think through carefully what you need to do and do it once. Why, Sir, have you been keeping your finger on my piece? Kindly let go of the piece. Until you’ve made your mind up about your move, kindly don’t handle a piece. Why, my good Sir, are you taking half-an-hour over each move? It’s not allowed. Anyone taking more than five minutes over one move, counts as mate. You’ve changed your move again? Put the piece back”

Mir Sahib’s queen was in peril. He said: “When did I move?”

Mirza: “Your move? You took it. The best thing is to put the piece back on that square.”

Mir: “Why should I? When did I take my hand off the piece?”

Mirza: “If you don’t let go of a piece till Judgment Day, how can it avoid being a move? You saw your queen was lost and started cheating.”

Mir: “You’re the cheat. Winning or losing is fate. No one wins by cheating.”

Mirza: “You’re mate in this game.”

Mir: “How can I be mate?”

Mirza: “Then put the piece back on that square, where it was before.”

Mir: “Why should I put it back? I’m not going to.”

Mirza: “You’ll have to.”

Mir: “Definitely not.”

Mirza: “Then your angels will. It’s your moment of truth.”

Matters escalated. Both held to their tune. Neither would yield. In dispute, inappropriate, unrelated matters were introduced, the burden of which was to insult and belittle. The Mirza declared: “If any of your ancestry had played chess, you would be conversant with the rules. They always cut grass. How, pray, were you to pick up chess? Status is different. It doesn’t come with the grant of an estate.

Mir: “It must have been your forebears who cut grass. In my family we’ve passed generation after generation playing chess.”

Mirza: “Come of it. Sir. You passed your time working for Nawab Ghazi ud-Din Haidar as a cook. That’s how you got your estate. Now you toy with concocting a gentleman. The making of a gentleman is no laughing-matter.”

Mir: “Why are you blackening your ancestors? They must have been the cooks. Our ancestors sat at the Nawab’s table. We were his boon-companions.”

Mirza: “The impudent know no shame”

Mir “Hold your tongue or you’ll regret it. We don’t brook such talk. Anyone glowers at me, my hand draws. His belly gets slit.”

“Mirza: “You want to see my courage, get ready. We’ll put it to the test, one way or the other.”

Mir: “Right you are! Come at it! Who’s afraid of you?”

The two friends drew sabres from their sashes. Everyone, high and low, carried daggers, knives, guns. Both were captive to luxury but they had their honor. Public spirit was their rara avis but personal courage welled within them. Their political feelings were non-existent. Why die for King, for country, for their people? Why should they interrupt their sweet sleep? But in matters of individual feeling they were utterly fearless. They were, indeed, in their element. They squared up to one another, lunged and parried. Sabres flashed, there was an audible swish, and both fell wounded. Both, writhing on the ground, gave up their lives. Two men who had shed not a teardrop for their King parted with their necks for a chess queen.

Darkness had fallen. The game was laid out. The two kings were resplendent, each on his throne. Grief overcast them, as if flailing themselves for the death of two martyrs.

On four sides there was a world of ominous silence. The ruins’ crumbling walls, broken crenellations and minarets, bowing their heads in prayer, looked on at corpses and lamented the impermanence of human life, lacking even the substance of stone and brick.

The persistent vandalism of the East India Company’s officers , under Outram and Jackson, was reported to the King, by his Mahals (Queens), agents and Officers-in-charge of the King’s properties at Lucknow. Moved by the repeated reports of wanton destruction of his properties, the King sent the following letter, from Matia Burj (suburb of Calcutta) to Lord Canning, the the Governor-General of India :

“Translation of a letter from the King of Oudh to the Honourable Governor-General dated 30th day of August, 1856.” (after some editing for better understanding and reference)

“
I beg to inform your Lordship that so many acts of violence, oppression, and indignity have been committed upon me that even one-tenth of them was never exercised upon any of the enemies of the British Government since the establishment of its authority in India.

“ANCESTRAL MONUMENTS PULLED DOWN ” – “FURRAH BUKSH TURNED INTO A KENNEL “

The taking possession of my ancestral Kingdom of one century’s standing is an infringement of solemn treaties. Thousands of my effects have been confiscated and destroyed. While the edifices, the building of which had cost Lacs of Rupees, and which were the monuments of my ancestors, have after they had stood for six generations, been pulled down. The magnificent building “Furrah Baksh” in which the Throne is placed and which had been erected exclusively for the entertainment of the British gentlemen, has been used as a dog kennel, and a stable. Guards have been placed over my private officials, even over the Moonshee Khanah, which contains not a single document related to public affairs, excepting only the Sunuds of the (British) Government, and the correspondence between the two States.

“GODOWNS BROKEN OPEN” – “ANIMALS AUCTIONED AT LOW PRICE”

The doors of my godown which were locked up, have been broken open, and the property contained therein has been spoiled. The animals, such as horses, elephants, and bullocks have been sold by auction at a very low price. Many other acts have been committed, the mention of which would be improper and tedious.

“DISTRESSED CONDITION OF LADIES “

I would never been willing to utter a complaint on the subject, but as independent of the past acts , every day, (since my arrival at Calcutta) witnesses some fresh occurrences or indignity derogatory to me and as I see no means of obtaining redress but by a representation to your Lordship, and as it is not the part of wisdom, to conceal one’s ailments so as to render a remedy impossible, I am compelled to intimate to your Lordship that such communications from my officers employed in Lucknow have reached me, as that a perusal of them has caused me uneasiness beyond description. They are herewith enclosed.

Your Lordship will learn on a reference thereto the distressed conditions of my Mahals (or Ladies). Under these circumstances I hope that your Lordship will (in equity and the true spirit of friendship, and out of respect to the obligation of treaties) be pleased to send an order by the Electric Telegraph directing the authorities at Lucknow to refrain from causing my houses to be vacated, and from committing such acts as may affect my honor and dignity. I beg your Lordship will be pleased to set my mind at ease by informing me of the nature of the answers which your Lordship may receive from those authorities.

Every difficulty may become simple through your attention, whereas every simple one may turn out difficult through your inattention. 

“

A puppeteer, Meraj Alam and Narayan Srivastava carry on the tradition in spite of the tradition perishing and with no audience to appreciate this old tradition of storytelling through puppets incarnated in different characters in Lucknow. The art of Lucknow’s puppetry gained immense popularity with the release of the Amitabh Bachchan starrer Gulabo Sitabo.

‘Putli Mohalla’ was an area near Ayodhya (then a part of Awadh province) where craft persons and story-tellers engaged in crafting puppets and dolls of wood would reside with their families. This traditional art is almost dead and only a very few people are now engaged in this tradition that too, only out of their interest and not anymore as a part of their profession.   

This art form got immense patronage during the reign of Wajid Ali Shah. It was in his times that the women character of Gulabo and Sitabo through whom social causes of those times were touched upon were brought to life.

Puppets worn on gloves always were popular in the region of Awadh, especially in the capital of Lucknow. Papier-mâché and cloth were the main material used to make these puppets and the dolls were made to wear bright colour clothing, many a times traditional finery reminiscent of Awadh. The puppeteers would perform in ‘Mohollas’ (Colonies or cluster of homes) and markets, where groups would stop and gather to watch the performances and related better with the story narrated. The stories were humorous, tragic and often had some element of suspense too but the primary idea was to put across a social message.   

Another form of puppetry was the ‘rod puppetry’ that gained prominence in the seventies but by the nineties this too lost its relevance with the advent of the newer and modern entertainment modes that took not only Lucknow but the entire country by storm.

The earnings of a puppeteer would be dependent on donations that audience would give in appreciation of performances and they were never fixed as emoluments to the performer, thus it was really important for more and more people to stop, watch and be entertained by them. With the modes of entertainment changing the crowd thinned and thus it impacted adversely the earnings of the performers. It was not uncommon for puppeteer to be accompanied by musicians to complement their story and make it more interesting. These groups would also travel to other towns and villages and a few affluent families would especially invite the performers to perform at family and social functions.

Any art form or the survival of any traditional art is dependent on the patronage and in turn if the same is able to sustain the performer’s life and livelihood. “Change is only constant” – this may not be a good thought when we talk about art, art forms, cultures and traditions. Really hope puppetry carries on as a part of a tradition and is not only confined to period films like ‘Gulabo-Siotabo’.   

As the Sangam city celebrates November 1 as the day when Prayagraj (then Allahabad) was made the nation’s capital for a day on November 1, 1858, few would know that it was in 1836 that a proposal was moved to make it the capital of the entire North-West Province the present-day Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

“After suppressing the uprising of 1857, ‘Allahabad’ became the capital for a day on November 1, 1858. The East India Company entrusted the administration of the nation in the city to the British monarchy. Meerut, Agra and Delhi were burning, so Prayagraj, which was under the British rule, was made the capital by the British to announce the transfer of power,” said former head of the department of Medieval and Modern History at Allahabad University, Prof Heramb Chaturvedi.

He added that although 22 years before this, it was in 1836 that the East India Company had planned to make Prayagraj the capital of the entire North-West Province but due to the circumstances, the move was not approved. Due to the Mughal rulers living in Delhi-Agra, the company moved to Agra with equipment.

“The British East India company wanted to have its capital in Delhi but since the place was being ruled by Mughals, the next option was to have the capital in Allahabad. This was mulled over by the company but later on they dropped the idea and chose Agra as the capital of North-West province as it was near to Delhi so it was the ideal place for the company and it remained the capital of North-West province till 1857”, explains Prof Chaturvedi.

Prof Chaturvedi said that the situation in Delhi, Agra and Meerut was very volatile because of the uprising and in such circumstances; it was not possible to read the proclamation about the transfer of power there. “At the same time, Allahabad was completely under the control of British rule. This is the reason why it was chosen as the one-day capital to read the manifesto of Queen Victoria. Viceroy Lord Canning read out the queen’s manifesto at the place where present-day Minto Park is located on the banks of the Yamuna,” he added. He further informed that with this, the rule of the Queen was established in place of the East India Company in India.

Another former HOD of the same department, Prof Yogeshwar Tiwari, said: “The Viceroy read the proclamation of Lord Canning. In its true sense, it was more an apology to the British than a transfer of power, which was done to heal the people’s anger by the company’s atrocities on Indians.”

Prayagraj / Allahabad

Indian Mutiny 1857 – 9

OTHER INDIAN UNITS:

Gwalior Contingent :

Major Muirson Thrower Blake – 2nd Regt. Gwalior Contingent – killed 15th June 1857
Grave at the Christian Cemetery, Gwalior – “Sacred to the memory of Major Muirson Thrower Blake Comdg 2nd Regt Gwalior Contingt who was shot by the mutineers at Gwalior on entering the lines of the Regt on the night of 15th June 1857 in his … Year. His remains were interred here by some Sepoys of his Regt. This monument is raised by his afflicted widow.”

Captain William Stewart – murdered by mutineers at Moorar – 14th June 1857 – 2nd Co. Artillery.
From Ardvorlich, Perthsire. His wife, Jane and young son Robert were also murdered at the same time.

Hodson’s Horse :

Major W. S. R. Hodson – wounded at Begam Kothi, Lucknow – 11th March 1857 – died of wounds

Lieutenant Charles Theophilus Metcalfe McDowell – killed in action at Shumshabad – 27th January 1858. Aged 28. Son of Lieut-Colonel George McDowell, CB, 16th Light Dragoons. Joined the Bengal Army in 1846.

Hyderabad Contingent :

Captain John Sinclair – wounded at Jhansi – 3rd April 1858. died of wounds

Loodiana Regiment :

Lieutenant Patrick Mara – murdered by mutineers at Junapore – 5th June 1857

Malwa Contingent :

Lieutenant Charles John Hunt – murdered by mutineers at Muttragur – 7th June 1857
Aged 27. Son of Revd Thomas Hunt, of West Felton, Salop.

Lieutenant George L. Mills – murdered by mutineers at Mehidpore – 8th November 1857
(attached from the 14th Bombay Native Infantry).

Oude Irregular Cavalry :

Lieutenant Alexander – killed in action at Allahabad – 6th June 1857

Lieutenant Box – killed in action at Lucknow – 22nd December 1857

Oude Irregular Infantry :

Captain George Pratt Barlow – Major of Brigade, Oude Irregular Force – died of wounds at Lucknow – 21st August 1857

Captain E.J. Hughes – wounded at Lucknow – 28th September 1857. died of wounds

Lieutenant Joseph Cudbert Longueville Clarke – 67th Bengal Native Infantry – murdered by mutineers at Bhyram Ghaut – 13th June 1857. Aged 28. Assistant-Commissary in Oude, serving with the 3rd Oude Irregulars.
Memorial at Harrow School – “Sacred to the memory of Joseph C. Longueville Clarke Lieut in the 67th Bengal Native Infantry & 2nd in Command of the 3rd Oude Infantry who was murdered by the mutineers during the Indian Revolt of 1857 at the age of 28 yrs.”

The Corps of Guides – Infantry :

Lieutenant Alexander William Murray – killed in action at Delhi – 14th September 1857.
Aged 21. Son of Rev. David Murray, of Hereford. Joined the Bengal Army in 1853.
Grave on the Ridge, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Alexander William Murray, Lieutenant in the 42nd Bengal NLI and attached during the Siege of Delhi to the Corps of Guides who fell while encouraging his men to follow his own brave example on the 14th September 1857. In admiration of his unvarying gallantry, his Comrades in the Guides erect this tomb.”

Punjab Cavalry :

Major Charles Ayshford Sanford – killed in action at Lucknow – 10th March 1858.
Aged 28. Son of Edward Sanford and Henrietta, of Somerset. Joined the Bengal Army in 1850.

Captain John Peloquin Cosserat – wounded at Koorsee – 23rd March 1858. died 18th April 1858
Aged 33. 1st Punjab Cavalry. Son of Revd. George P. Cosserat, Rector of Drinkstone, Suffolk.

Lieutenant Frederick James MacDonnell – killed in action at Koorsee – 23rd March 1858.
Aged 25. Born in Dublin. Joined the Bengal Army in 1853.

Punjab Infantry :

Lieutenant Thomas Frankland – killed in action at Lucknow – 16th November 1857
Aged 29. Son of Sir Frederick Frankland and Dame Katherine Margaret Frankland. Two other sons also died in service – Midshipman Frederick Roger Frankland, HMS Winchester who died of fever at Sierre Leone, 23 Jan. 1844, aged 20 and Midshipman Harry Albert Frankland, HMS Alarm, died of fever off Vera Cruz, 9 May 1847, aged 17.
Memorial at St. Marys Church, Thirsk – “Sacred to the memory of Thomas Frankland, Lieut 48th Madras Native Infantry and 2nd in Command 2nd Punjab Regt killed in action with the sepoy rebels, leading an assault at the Relief of Lucknow 17th Nov. 1858 aged 29 years.”

Lieutenant H. T. Macqueen – wounded at Lucknow – 16th November 1857. died of wounds

Lieutenant Frederic Folliott Oldfield – wounded at Lucknow – 16th November 1857. died of wounds
Son of H.S. Oldfield, late Bengal Civil Service.

Lieutenant Eaton Joseph Travers – wounded at Delhi – 3rd August 1857. died of wounds
Aged 32. 32nd B.N.I. Served with 1st Punjab Rifles. Son of the late Major-General Sir Robert Travers, KCB.

Lieutenant E. C. P. Willoughby – killed in action at Rooya – 15th April 1858

Lieutenant George Austen Patterson Younghusband – 5th Punjab Infantry – 2nd January 1858
Memorial at Bamburgh Parish Church, Northumberland – “Lt. George Austen Patterson Younghusband 5th Punjab Infantry Born 18th November 1831 – mortally wounded at Futtehgur during the Indian Mutiny 2nd January 1858.”
Memorial at St. Peters Church, Freshford, Avon – “In memory of Lieut. George Younghusband, Commanding Squadron 5th Punjab Cavalry on the outbreak of the terrible Indian Mutiny of 1857. He was serving on the Afghan border of India then, that renowned body the Delhi Army was formed, his squadron with 2 others of the Punjab Force pressed forward and joined it as the avenging army swept through Delhi on to Agra, to Cawnpore, to Lucknow; their charging cry was heard on every battlefield and never heard but was followed by victory at last, when the campaign was nearly closed, he fell mortally wounded, near Futteghur on 2nd Jany 1858 and died on the second day aged 26 years. He was borne to his grave by grey bearded Sikh warriors who wept when they thought he had led them in his last battle.”
Memorial at St. Aidans Church, Bamburgh, Northumberland – “To the glory of God and in memory of the five sons of Major-General Charles Younghusband Royal Artillery. General Romer Younghusband CB Bombay Staff Corps. Born 10 December 1819, died 12 December 1905. Lieut.gen. Charles Younghusband, CB, FRS, Royal Artillery. Born 20 June 1821, died 28 October 1899. Major-General John William Younghusband, CSI, Bombay Staff Corps. Born 2 January 1823, died 20 July 1907. Lieutenant Edward Younghusband 9th Bombay, born 30 July 1824, killed in action at the siege of Mooltan 27 December 1848. Lieut. George Austen Patterson Younghusband 5th Punjab Cavalry, born 18 November 1831, mortally wounded at Futtehghur during the Indian Mutiny 2 January 1858.”

Seikh Irregular Cavalry :

Captain Frederick Wale – killed in action at Lucknow – 21st March 1858
(att. from 48th Bengal N.I.) Aged 23. Son of General Sir Charles Wale, KCB, 33rd Foot. Commanding Wale’s Horse.

Lieutenant R. A. Hamilton – killed in action at Tonse River, Azimghur – 15th April 1858
(att. from 10th Bengal Light Cavalry).

Lieutenant A. R. Mackenzie – killed in action at Lucknow – 2nd March 1858

Seikh Infantry :

Lieutenant R. J. Grant – killed in action at Jerwah – 30th April 1859.
(att. from 64th Bengal N.I.)

Lieutenant James Yorke – wounded at Delhi – 19th June 1857. died of wounds.
(att. from 3rd B.N.I.)

Bengal Volunteer Cavalry :

Lieutenant L. Hunt – killed in action near Saugur

Bengal Yeomanry Cavalry :

Captain A. Giffard – wounded at Doomureeagunge – 26th November 1858. died of wounds

Cornet Hugh Troup – killed in action at Tilga – 17th April 1858

THE MADRAS ARMY:

4th Madras Light Cavalry :

Captain J.S. Douglas – wounded at Kheri – 7th October 1858. died of wounds

Captain A. Tottenham – wounded at Ramkarra, near Jabalpore – 6th November 1857. died of wounds

5th Madras Light Cavalry :

Captain George Lawrence Herbert Gall – killed carrying despatches from Lucknow to Allahabad – 13th June 1857
Commanding 2nd Oude Irregular Cavalry.

8th Madras Light Cavalry :

Captain George King Newberry – killed in action at Lingasagoor, near Shorapur – 8th February 1858
Son of Thomas Raikes Newberry.

1st Madras Fusiliers :

Memorial at the Residency, Lucknow – “Sacred to the memory of Brigadier General J.G.S. Neill A.D.C. to the Queen. Col J.L. Stephenson c.o. Major S.G.C. Renaud Lieut. W.G. Groom. Lieut N.H. Arnold. Lieut A.A. Richardson. Lieut J.A. Chisholm Liuet F. Dobbs 352 non-commissioned officers, drummers and rank and file of the First Madras Fusiliers who fell during the supression of the rebellion in Bengal 1857-58.”

Lieutenant-Colonel John Stephenson, C.B.- wounded at Lucknow – 5th October 1857. died of wounds 21st October 1857
Aged 47.

Major Syndenham George C. Renaud – wounded at Aong, 15th July 1857. Left leg amputated. died of wounds

Lieutenant Nelson Henry Arnold – wounded at Charbagh Bridge, Lucknow – 25th September 1857. Left leg amputated. died of wounds

Lieutenant H. Francis – killed in action at Lucknow – 16th November 1857

Lieutenant William Tate Groom – wounded at Lucknow – 5th October 1857. died of wounds 21st October
Aged 26. Son of the late Richard Groom, Solicitor to the India Board.

Lieutenant Angelo Richardson – killed in action at Oonao – 29th July 1857

3rd Madras European Regiment :

Lieutenant Clarence Colbek – wounded at Banda – 19th April 1858. died of wounds 20th April 1858

10th Madras Native Infantry :

Captain Francis David Gordon – murdered by mutineers at Jhansi – 7th June 1857
Assistant-Superintendent, Jhansi District. Aged 35. Last surviving son of Michael Francis Gordon, of Abergeldie, Aberdeenshire. (The Times 5-8-57)

Captain W.G.P. Jenkins – killed in action at Enotah – 14th October 1857

31st Madras Native Infantry :

Lieutenant Charles Marsham Parsons – drowned near Fyzabad – 8th June 1857
Aged 25. Son of the late Lieut-Colonel Parsons, CMG. Drowned while escaping from mutineers of 17th Bengal N.I. while he was serving with the 6th Oude Irregulars.

34th Madras Native Infantry :

Lieutenant John Peloquin Cosserat – wounded at Lucknow, 23rd March 1858 – died of wounds 10th April 1858.

35th Madras Native Infantry :

Lieutenant H.P. Power – killed in action near Sircy – 19th February 1858

39th Madras Native Infantry :

Captain H.D. Hart – murdered by mutineers at Vellore – 12th November 1858

Captain John Sinclair – killed in action at Jhansi – 3rd April 1858
Memorial at Bower cemetery, Caithness – “Erected by officers 39th Madras Native Infantry in memory of Capt John Sinclair, eldest son of Sir John Sinclair, Baronet of Dunbeath, killed in action Jhansi 5.4.1858 aged 35.”

40th Madras Native Infantry :

Captain A.P. Woodbridge – killed in action near Sumbulpore – 12th February 1858
Son of E.C. Woodbridge, of Brighton.

43rd Madras Native Infantry :

Lieutenant R.C.A. Stuart – wounded at Mandwar – 20th January 1858. died of wounds

48th Madras Native Infantry :

Lieutenant Thomas Frankland – killed in action at Lucknow – 17th November 1857
Son of Sir Frederick Frankland (8th Baronet of Thikleby, Yorkshire and Dame Katharine.
Memorial in St. Simon’s Church, Portsmouth – “….. also of their three gallant sons: Fredk. Roger, Midshipman HMS Revenge who died of fever at Sierra Leone Jan 23rd 1845. Thomas, Lieut 48th M.N.I. killed in action at the Secunderbagh Nov 17th 1857. Harry Albert, Midshipman HMS Alarm who died of yellow fever at Vera Cruz May 9th 1847.”

Madras Artillery :

Lieutenant C. W. Crump – killed in action at Lucknow – 26th September 1857

Madras Engineers :

Captain C. Scott – killed in action at Rehora – 23rd November 1858

THE BOMBAY ARMY:

General Brackley Kennett – Bombay Army – wounded at Coonoor 8th October 1857, died 12th.
Ref. The Times (5-12-57). Attacked by an assassin.

1st Bombay Light Cavalry :

Colonel J. Penney – killed in action at Nusseerabad – 28th May 1858

Captain Hugh Spottiswoode – killed in action at Nusseerabad – 28th May 1858
‘Killed while charging at the head of his regiment, a 6 gun battery of the mutineers supported by 2 regiments of infantry’ (The Times 24-7-57)

Lieutenant J. M. Heath – killed in action at Gwalior – 19th June 1858

Cornet William Mills – killed in action at Gwalior – 19th June 1858

Cornet Richard Nicholas Newbury – killed in action at Nusseerabad – 28th May 1858
Aged 20. Shot while assisting to recapture guns from the mutineers. (ref. The Times)

2nd Bombay Light Cavalry :

Captain N. B. Tucker – killed in action at Jeerum – 23rd October 1857

1st Bombay Fusiliers :

Lieutenant G. J. H. Burnes – murdered by mutineers at Lucknow – 19th November 1857

Lieutenant William Marwood Mules – killed in action at Multan – 31st August 1858.
Aged 33. Son of Philip Mules, of Devon. Joined the Bombay Army in 1844. Served in the Punjab Campaign (1848).
Grave at New Cemetery, Multan – “Sacred to the memory of Lieut. William Marwood Mules late Adjt. 1st Bombay Fusiliers who was killed during the mutiny at Mooltan 31st August 1858 aged 33 years. Erected by his brother officers as a mark of esteem and affection.”

3rd Bombay European Regiment :

Lieutenant James W. Henry – murdered by mutineers at Nandoor – 4th October 1857
Superintendent of Ahmednuggur Police. Son of Arthur Henry, of Lodge Park, Co. Kildare.

1st Bombay Native Infantry :

Lieutenant Charles Bromhead Bannerman – killed in action at Delhi – 8th September 1857
Aged 22. Son of Patrick, of Aberdeen.

9th Bombay Native Infantry :

Lieutenant G. Grant – wounded at Lucknow – 26th July 1857. died of wounds 29th July 1857

Ensign E. I Stubbs – murdered by mutineers at Kolapore – 2nd August 1857

10th Bombay Native Infantry :

Lieutenant E. C. Willoughby – killed in action at Fort Roodanow – 15th April 1858

14th Bombay Native Infantry :

Lieutenant G. L. Mills – murdered by mutineers at Mehidpore – 8th November 1857

23rd Bombay Native Infantry :

Captain Robert Bainbridge – killed in action at Kotah – 1st April 1858
Aged 33. Son of Colonel Bainbridge, of Guernsey. Killed when the magazine was exploded by mutineers.
Memorial at St. Andrews Church, La Route de St. Andre, Channel Islands  – “To the memory of Captain Robert Bainbrigge, 23rd Regt Bombay Native Infantry, second son of Colonel Bainbrigge of the Rohais Manor, in this parish, killed April 1st 1858 in his 34th year in the zealous performance of an important duty, by the treacherous explosion of the enemy’s magazine, after the assault and capture of the fortress and city of Kotah. This excellent and energetic young officer, after an active service with his regiment in India, or in charge of an irregular corps, the Sawant-Warree; obtained leave of absence, joined the Allied Army in the Crimea commanded a Company during the latter part of the siege and fall of Sebastopol. On the breaking out of the mutiny in Bengal, Capt. Bainbrigge returned to his own Presidency and was appointed to the Staff of the Bombay Army as Major of Brigade in the Rajpootana Field Force. This tablet has been erected by his sorrowing parents.”

24th Bombay Native Infantry :

Lieutenant Atherton Allan Park – killed in action at Jhansi – 3rd April 1858
Aged 23. Son of Alexander Atherton Park, of Wimple Street, London.

25th Bombay Native Infantry :

Lieutenant Wellington Rose – wounded at Gwalior – 19th June 1857. died of wounds

27th Bombay Native Infantry :

Lieutenant J.T. Norris – murdered by mutineers at Kolapore – 2nd August 1857

Ensign Frederick William Heathfield – murdered by mutineers at Kolapore – 2nd August 1857
Son of Richard Heathfield, Sussex Square, Hyde Park, London.
Parents memorial at Christ Church, Harrow – “Frederick William Heathfield, third son, late of the 27th Bombay NI who fell in the Indian Mutiny near Kolhapur Aug 2nd 1857 aged 18 years.”

Scindia Contingent :

Major John Jacob – murdered by mutineers at Agra – 6th July 1857

Bombay Engineers :

Lieutenant William George Douglas Dick – killed in action at Jhansi – 8th April 1858
Aged 22. Son of the late John Campbell Dick, Bengal Civil Service.

2nd Lieutenant Charles Hancock – wounded in explosion at Kotah – 30th March 1858. died of wounds 14th April 1858 Aged 21. Son of Major-General Hancock, Bombay Army.

2nd Lieutenant Hugh R. Meiklejohn – killed in action at Jhansi – 8th April 1858

THE INDIAN MEDICAL SERVICE:

Superintending-Surgeon John Boon Hayes – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Born 19 August 1826. According to Roll of IMS he died in Calcutta 18 July 1856?

Senior-Surgeon James Graham – murdered by mutineers at Sealkote – 9th July 1857
Born 28 Jan. 1797. Aged 60. Served in the Gwalior (star) and Sutlej (medal & clasp) Campaigns.

Senior-Surgeon Kinloch Winlaw Kirk – murdered by mutineers at Moorar – 13th June 1857
Born 24 Dec. 1814. Author of ‘Topography of the Sind’ (1847).
Grave at the Christian Cemetery, Gwalior – “Sacred to the memory of Kinloch Winlaw Kirk M.D. Superintending surgeon Gwalior contingent. Shot by mutinous sepoys on the 15th June 1857 Aged 45 years.”

Surgeon William Robert Boyes – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Born October 1816. Serving with 1st Bengal Native Cavalry. Son of William Boyes, of Brixton Hill, Surrey. His wife, Kate, was also killed.

Surgeon Nathaniel Collyer – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Born 6 August 1806.

Surgeon Christopher Garbett – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Born 20 June 1806. Served Punjab campaign.

Surgeon Arthur Wellesley Robert Newenham – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Born 21 August 1812. Served Sutlej campaign.

Surgeon Thomas Smith – murdered by mutineers at Meerut – 10th May 1857
Born 15 July 1809.

Assistant-Surgeon Robert Dallas Dove Allan – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Born April 1819. Served Sutlej campaign (medal 2 clasps).

Assistant-Surgeon Robert Henry Bartrum – killed in action at Lucknow – 26th September 1857
Aged 26. Serving with the 3rd Oude Irregular Infantry.

Assistant-Surgeon Henry Thomas Cary – killed in action at Mehidpore – 8th November 1857
Born 27 July 1833.

Assistant-Surgeon Edmund Darby – died of wounds at Lucknow – 27th October 1857
Aged 24. Serving with 10th Oude Irregular Infantry. Son of Sydney Hudson Darby, of Tienga, Bandorah River, Australia. Wounded by a shell and died soon after. His wife, Mary, and child were killed at Lucknow.

Assistant-Surgeon Anthony Dopping – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857
Born 6 August 1830.

Assistant-Surgeon Hartwell Samuel Garner – murdered by mutineers at Segowlee – 9th July 1857
Born July 1821. Served Sutlej and Punjab campaigns. Serving with the 12th Irregular Cavalry when killed. His wife Susan and one of their two children were also killed.

Assistant-Surgeon John Colin Graham – killed in action at Sealkote – 9th July 1857
Born 24 Nov. 1819 at Bhagalpur. Son of Major-General John Graham, Bengal Army. Served in the Punjab campaign (medal 2 clasps)

Assistant-Surgeon George Hansbrow – murdered by mutineers at Bareilly – 31st May 1857
Born 6 Feb 1823.

Assistant-Surgeon Horatio Philip Harris – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Born 11 July 1823 at sea, near Ceylon. Son of Henry Harris (Asst-Surgeon Bengal Army).

Assistant-Surgeon John MacDowell Hay – murdered by mutineers at Bareilly – 31st May 1857
Born 2 Feb 1819, son of Surgeon John Hay (Madras Army). Served Gwalior (star).

Assistant-Surgeon Thomas Godfrey Heathcote – killed in action at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Born Feb. 1818. Co-author of ‘The Adaman Islands’

Assistant-Surgeon Marcus George Hill – murdered by mutineers at Seetapore – 2nd June 1857
Born 1829.

Assistant-Surgeon William Henry James – murdered by mutineers at Agra – 4th July 1857
Born 9 Nov. 1829.

Assistant-Surgeon Robert Lyell – killed in a riot at Patna – 3rd July 1857
Born 30 May 1825. Served Punjab campaign (medal 2 clasps). Author of ‘Notes on Patna Opium Agency’ (1857).

Assistant-Surgeon Daniel MacAuley – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Born 1 August 1830.

Assistant-Surgeon Samuel Maltby – killed in action at Cawnpore – 15th July 1857
Born Sept. 1820.

Assistant-Surgeon Thomas Moore – murdered by mutineers at Jogeermarah – 17th November 1857
Born 28 Nov. 1819 in America. Appointed to the Gwalior Contingent, served Sutlej campaign. Author of ‘Selections from my Medical Notebooks’ (1852).

Assistant-Surgeon M. Sadler – murdered by mutineers at Kotah – 15th October 1857

Assistant-Surgeon Thomas Hewlett Woodward – killed in action at Delhi – 31st August 1857
Born 5 Dec. 1832. Son of William James, of Tunbridge Wells.

ECCLESIASTICAL DEPARTMENT :

Chaplin George W. Coopland – murdered by mutineers at Moorar – 15th June 1857
Eldest son of Revd. George Coopland, Rector of St. Margaret’s, York.
Grave in the Christian Cemetery, Gwalior – “To the memory of Rev. George William Coopland M.A. Late fellow of St. Catherine’s College Cambridge and H.E.I.C.’S Chaplain. He was killed at Gwalior by the Sepoys on the morning of 15th June 1857 in the 30th year of his age. He had been chaplain of Gwalior for 6 months. This monument was erected by his widow after the retaking of Gwalior June 1858.”

Chaplin E.T.R. Moncrieff – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Indian Mutiny 1857 – 9

BENGAL COMMISSARIAT & ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT:

Assistant Commissary Nicholas Reilly – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Conductor William Berrill – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Conductor Geoffrey Coleman – wounded at Allahabad – 22nd June 1857. died of wounds

Conductor J. Nolan – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857

Conductor John Scully – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857.
Aged 42. Born in Dublin. One of the ‘Devoted Nine’.

Conductor George William Shaw – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857.
Aged 46. Born in London. One of the ‘Devoted Nine’.

Conductor W. G. Woods – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857

Sub-Conductor G. Connor – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857

Sub-Conductor William Crow – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857.
Aged 36. Born in Berwick. One of the ‘Devoted Nine’.

Sub-Conductor R. N. Settle – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857

Sub-Conductor William H. West – killed in action at Kotah – 26th March 1858

Sub-Conductor J. White – died of wounds at Lucknow – 23rd August 1857

Sub-Conductor Roger Wood – died of wounds at Lucknow – 19th August 1857

Indian Mutiny 1857 – 9

Bengal Horse Artillery. 1st Brigade:

Lieutenant-Colonel Murray Mackenzie – wounded at Delhi – 2nd July 1857. died at Simla, 5th October 1857. Aged 43. Born in Middlesex. Son of John & Helen. Joined Bengal Artillery 1828. Husband of Emily Watson.
Grave at Simla New Cemetery – “Sacred to the memory of Lt. Colonel Murray Mackenzie, Bengal Horse Artillery, died 5th October 1857 from the effect of wounds received at Delhi, aged 44 years.”

Lieutenant D. C. Alexander – wounded at Lucknow – 16th September 1857. died of wounds

Lieutenant Henry George Perkins – killed in action at Ghazee-od-deen Nuggur – 31st May 1857. Aged 27. Memorial at Meerut – “In memory of 1st Lieutenant Henry George Perkins ….. of the 2nd Troop, 1st Brigade, Bengal Horse Artillery who fell in action with the mutineers at the Hindan river on the 31st May 1857, nobly doing their duty. This monument is erected by their Commanding Officer Colonel H. Tombs in token of esteem and regret.”

Bengal Horse Artillery. 2nd Brigade:

Lieutenant Augustus Otway Mayne – killed in action at Lucknow – 14th November 1857
Deputy-Asst-Quartermaster-General on the Staff of Brigadier Hope. Aged 28. Son of late Captain Charles Otway Mayne, of the Manor House, Great Stanmore, Middlesex.

Bengal Horse Artillery. 3rd Brigade:

Captain Edward Armstrong Currie D’Oyly – wounded at Sassiah – 5th July 1857. died of wounds 6th July at Agra. Ref The Times (4-9-57) died of a grape-shot wound at Agra 6th July.

Bengal Field Artillery :

Brigadier George Lewis Cooper – killed in action at Lucknow – 25th September 1857
Aged 45. Son of Major-General George (Bengal Army) and Jane, of London. Husband of Mary Griffin.

Colonel Francis Ruddle Bazely – killed in action at Lucknow – 25th September 1857
Aged 50. Son of Captain Henry (Royal Navy) and Mary, of Dover. Husband of Susan Denson.

Colonel Frederick Brind, CB. – wounded at Sealkote – 10th July 1857. died of wounds. Aged 56. Son of Walter Brind. Born in London. Served in the Gwalior, Sutlej and Punjab Campaigns. Husband of Henrietta Sale.

Colonel Sir Hugh Montgomery Lawrence, KCB. – wounded at Lucknow – 2nd July 1857. died of wounds 4th July 1857. Aged 50. Son of Lieut-Colonel Alexander and Catherine Lawrence. Husband of Honoria Marshall.

Lieutenant-Colonel Hubert Garbett – wounded at Delhi, 9th September 1857. died of infected wound at Simla – 14th January 1858. Aged 53. Son of Rev. James Garbett, of Hereford. Husband of Jessy Campbell.
Grave at Simla, New Cemetery – “Beneath this tomb are deposited the remains of Colonel Hubert Garbett of the Bengal Artillery who died at Simla on the 14th January 1858 from the effects of a wound received at the siege of Delhi where he served as a Brigadier commanding the artillery. Aged 53 years.”

Major George Larkins – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 49. Son of John and Mary. Husband of Emma Carnaghan (she was also massacred at Cawnpore).

Major Alexander Robertson – wounded at Futteghur – 12th June 1857. died of wounds 21st July
Aged 37. Agent for Gun Carriages. Son of George Robertson, Deputy Keeper of Records for Scotland. Hi wife, Elizabeth and their infant daughter were also killed.

Captain Robert Charles Henry Baines Fagan – killed in action at Delhi – 12th September 1857
Aged 34. Son of Major-General Christopher Fagan, CB. Born at Fatehgarh. Served in the Punjab (1848). Husband of Sarah Humphrey.

Captain Alexander William Hawkins – murdered by mutineers at Moorar – 15th June 1857
Aged 44. Son of John and Ellen, of Dublin. Husband of Georgina Greene.

Captain Alfred P. Simons – wounded at Chinhut – 30th June 1857. Died at Lucknow 8th September 1857
Aged 33. Served in the Punjab Campaign (medal & 2 clasps).
Memorial at The Residency, Lucknow – “To the memory of Capt. A.P. Simons. Lt D.G. Alexander. Lt E.P. Lewin
Lt J.H. Bryce, Lt F.J. Cunliffe officers of the Bengal Artillery who died of wounds disease & exposure whilst defending the Residency Lucknow during the months of July Aug. and Sept. 1857 erected by their brother officers who survived the siege.”

Lieutenant Burnett Ashburner – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Sixth son of William Page Ashburner, formerly of Bombay.

Lieutenant St. G. Ashe – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant Charles Dempster – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant Dundas William Gordon – killed in action at Lucknow – 8th January 1858
Aged 24. Son of Adam Gordon, of London.

Lieutenant Edward Hildebrand – killed in action at Delhi – 8th September 1857
Aged 29. Born near Leicester.

Lieutenant John Henderson Lamb – wounded at Agra 5th July – died of wounds 24th August 1857
Aged 29. Assistant-Commissioner at Oraie. Son of David Lamb, of Liverpool.

Lieutenant Edward P. Lewin – killed in action at Lucknow – 26th July 1857
Memorial at The Residency, Lucknow – “To the memory of Capt. A.P. Simons. Lt D.G. Alexander. Lt E.P. Lewin, Lt J.H. Bryce, Lt F.J. Cunliffe officers of the Bengal Artillery who died of wounds disease & exposure whilst defending the Residency Lucknow during the months of July Aug. and Sept. 1857 erected by their brother officers who survived the siege.”

Lieutenant A.O. Mayne – killed in action at Lucknow – 14th November 1857

Lieutenant William Stewart – murdered by mutineers at Gwalior – 15th June 1857
Aged 30. From Ardvorlich, Perthsire. Son of Major W.M. Stewart, Bengal Army. His wife, Lucy, and infant son, Robert, were also killed.

Lieutenant Frederick Henry Turnbull – murdered by mutineers at Jhansi – 4th June 1857
Son of Montagu Henry Turnbull, late Bengal Civil Service.

Lieutenant George Dobson Willoughby – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857
Memorial at Bath Abbey, Bath – “Sacred to the memory of George Dobson Willoughby, 1st Lieut. Bengal Artillery and Commissary of Ordnance at Delhi, aged 28 years. As a brave and zealous soldier he stood firm in defence of his post intrusted to him, and when resistance failed blew up the Delhi Magazine on 11 May 1857 to prevent its falling into the hands of the mutineers and rebels. Burnt and wounded he subsequently fell a pray to insurgents. This tablet is erected by his sorrowing relatives.”

2nd Lieutenant F.W. Burney – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

2nd Lieutenant Thomas Eden Dickens – wounded at Delhi – 20th July 1857. died of wounds 27th July.
Fourth son of William Dickens, of Cherington, Warwickshire.
Grave at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “In memory of Thomas Eden Dickens. Lieutenant Bengal Artillery, who fell mortally wounded before Delhi on the 20th and died on the 27th of July 1857. Aged 25 years.”

2nd Lieutenant J.A.H. Eckford – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

2nd Lieutenant John Nickleson Martin – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “This tablet in memory of an excellent son, is erected by his afflicted parents, Admiral and Mrs Martin, to John Nickleson Martin Liuet. Bengal Artillery Who, whilst gallanty fulfilling his duties, was treacherously killed by the mutineers in the boats at Cawnpore, on the 27th of June 1857, in his 18th year, respected and beloved by all that knew him.”

2nd Lieutenant William Thornton Somerville – wounded at Delhi – 29th August 1857. died
Third and youngest son of James, of Ross, Co. Meath. Born 7th March 1836 in Ireland. Died of a fever.
Grave at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “In memory of Lieut. W.T. Somoerville of the Bengal Artillery who died in camp before Delhi at the age of 21 years and 6 months on the 5th September 1857 of a fever brought on by fatigue and exposure, This monument has been erected by his affectionate friend Major General Huthwaite, CB.”

2nd Lieutenant George M.W. Sotheby – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 17. Only son of Capt. George H. Sotheby, 34th Madras L.I.
Memorial at St. Johns Church, Clifton, Lancashire – “Also to Lieutenant George M.W. Sotherby, Bengal Artillery, son of the above, who was killed in the massacre at Cawnpore June 1857 aged 17 years.”

2nd Lieutenant Somerset Edward Deane Townsend – murdered by mutineers at Nowgong – 19th June 1857 ‘shot through the heart by a dacoit, near Mahoba. Third son of the late Bishop of Meath.

Assistant-Surgeon R.H. Bartrum – killed in action at Lucknow – 26th September 1857

BENGAL ENGINEERS:

Captain Henry A. Brownlow – wounded at Delhi – 14th September 1857. died of wounds.

Captain E. Fraser – murdered by mutineers at Meerut – 10th May 1857

Captain G.W. Fulton – killed in action at Lucknow – 14th September 1857

Lieutenant Elliott Pakenham Brownlow – killed in a powder explosion at Delhi – 17th March 1858
Aged 24. Son of Henry Brownlow, of Bath.

Lieutenant Duncan Charles Home, VC – killed in a powder explosion at Allyghur – 29th September 1857 Aged 29. Son of Major-General Richard Home (Bengal Infantry), he was born at Jubbulpore. Joined the Bengal Army in 1846. Won the VC for blowing the Kashmir Gate before the final assault on Delhi (14th Sept.)

Lieutenant C.D. Innes – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857

Lieutenant S.C. Jervis – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant J.R. Monckton – killed in action at Futtehghur – 12th July 1857
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “Futtehgurh Fugitives 10th N.I. Colonel G.A. Smith Wife Child.
Major R. Monro. Major J. Phillott. Lieut C.W. Swetenham. Lieut D. Henderson. Ensign R.S. Byrne. Surgeon T.C. & Mrs Heathcote. Musician W.M. Wrixen. Colonel A. Coldie Wife & Daughters. Lieut J.R. Monckton B. Engr. Wife & Child. Asst-Surgeon S. & Mrs Maltby. Contr. M Roban Ordnance Dept. & Family. School Master Sheils & Family. Sergt. Hammond Gun Agency Dept. & Family. Pensioner Faulknor.”

Lieutenant Philip Salkeld, VC – wounded at Cashmere Gate, Delhi – 14th September 1857. died of wounds, 10th October at Delhi. Aged 26. Born in Dorset. Son of Rev. Robert Salkeld. Joined the Bengal Army in 1848. Won the VC for blowing the Kashmir Gate before the final assault on Delhi (14th Sept.)

Lieutenant Francis Latter Tandy – killed in action at Delhi – 14th September 1857
Aged 23. Son of Edward Tandy, Taxing Master in the Court of Chancery, Ireland. Joined the Bengal Army in 1853. Educated at Addiscombe.

Lieutenant Francis Whiting – killed – 28th June 1857
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “In memory of Francis Whiting Capt Bengal Engineers who was shot by Mutinous Sepoys on the 28th June 1857 in the 35th year of his age one of the devoted band who defended Cawnpore and who was in command of a boat which escaped about 30 miles and fell while pushing her off a sand bank on which she had grounded.”

2nd Lieutenant Edward Jones – wounded at Delhi, 18th July, died of wounds – 24th July 1857
Aged 22. Mortally wounded by a cannon-shot. Son of Edward Jones, of Liverpool.
Grave in Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Lieutenant Edward Jones, Bengal Engineers, who was mortally wounded on the Ridge before Delhi on the 18th July and died on the 24th July 1857.”

Indian Mutiny 1857 – 9

THE BENGAL INFANTRY:

1st Bengal European Fusiliers

Memorial at Sadar Bazar, Delhi – “Here repose the following officer, non commissioned officers and men of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers killed in the attack on the enemys fortified position at Kissen-gunge on the morning of the successful assault and storm of Delhi. Captain G.G. McBarnett 55th N.I. (attached)” … (names of 19 men) … “Familiar with the aspect of Death whom they had confonted in so many battles from which they always emerged victorious they met His last inevitable call here with intrepidity Falling on the 14th of September 1857 in the faithful discharge of their duty. This Monument was erected by their Officers and fellow soldiers of the 1st Regiment European Bengal Fusiliers in their remembrance which is part of its glory. The rest remains with the Lord.”

Lieutenant-Colonel John Grant Gerrard – killed in action at Narnool – 17th November 1857
Son of John & Harriet Gerrard. Born in Calcutta, 1808. Joined the Bengal Army in 1825. Served Afghanistan 1842 (medal), Sutlej 1845 (medal). Husband of Mary Bunbury.
Memorial at Meerut – “Sacred to the memory of Lieut-Colonel John Grant Gerrard, 1st Bengal Fusiliers, who was killed in action while gallantly leading on to victory the moveable column which he commanded against the Jodhpur Legion at Narnaul, near Delhi, November 17th 1857, aged 48 years.”

Major George Ogle Jacob – mortally wounded at Delhi – 14th September 1857
Aged 38. Son of Surgeon George Jacob (Bengal Medical Service). Joined the Bengal Army in 1837. Served in Afghanistan (1838), Sutlej (1845). Wounded in the morning and died in camp at 10 pm.
Grave at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Major George Ogle Jacob, 1st Bengal Fusiliers, who whilst commanding his Regiment fell mortally wounded at the storming of Delhi, on the 14th September 1857, aged 38 years. This monument is erected by his family.”

Captain William Hodson – killed in action at Begam Kothi – 11th March 1858

Captain Etienne St. George – wounded at Chakar Kothi – 9th March 1858. died of wounds

2nd Bengal European Fusiliers

Memorial in St. James’ Church, Delhi – “In defence of the honor of their beloved Queen and country in avenging their murdered countrymen and women, in crushing a mutiny unrivalled for its atrocities and in the final assault and capture of the city of Delhi, the brave soldiers of the 2nd European Bengal Fusiliers in whose memory this tablet is erected fell. Followed to the grave by the sympathies of their nation, and the undying love of their surviving comrades they lie in glorious sacrifice to their country. To perpetuate the memory of Colonel Major General N. Penny CB. Captain E.J. White. Captain R.J. Sanctuary 5th N.I. Lieutenant C.T.M. MacDowell. Lieutenant G.J. Glanville. Lieutenant S.H. Jackson. Lieutenant D.F. Sheriff. Lieutenant O.C. Walters 45th N.I. Lieutenant C.H.E. Gambier 38th N.I. Asst Surgeon W.B. Chavasse.”

Colonel Nicholas Penny, CB – killed in action – Killed in action at Kukerowlee – 30th April 1858.
Aged 69. Son of Robert & Catherine Penny, of Weymouth, Dorset. Joined Bengal Army 1806. Husband of Louisa Gerard.
Grave at Meerut – “Sacred to the memory of Major General N. Penny, CB. Commanding the Meerut Division. Born at Weymouth, Dorsetshire on the 12th March 1790, Killed at the head of his column in a skirmish with the enemy near the village of Kukerowlee, in Rolilcund, on the morning of the 30th April 1858 after a service of 51 years. His precious remains were brought to Meerut through the kind exertions of Captain E.J. Simpson Asst Commy Gen.”

Lieutenant Charles Henry Fitzroy Gambier – killed in action at Delhi – 14th September 1857.
Aged 22. When his regiment (38th N.I.) mutineed he was attached to the 2nd Bengal Fusiliers. Killed in the attack on the breach of the Water Bastion 14th September 1857. See 38th Native Infantry.

Lieutenant George Julius Glanville – murdered in the massacre at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857.
Aged 25. Son of Francis and Amabel, of Cornwall.

Lieutenant Stuart Hare Jackson – killed in action at Delhi – 23rd June 1857.
Aged 19. Joined the Bengal Army in 1855. Third son of the late A.R. Jackson, MD of Warley Barracks.
Buried at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “Beneath this lies the mortal remains of Lieut. S.H. Jackson 2nd EB Fusiliers killed in action against the rebels on 23rd June 1857 during the siege of Delhi. erected by his brother officers as a mark of deep esteem.”

Lieutenant Charles T. McDowell – killed in action at Shumshabad – 27th January 1858
Aged 23. Second-in-command of Hodson’s Horse. Son of James McDowell, of London and East Bridgeford, Notts.

2nd Lieutenant David Francis Sherriff – killed in action at Delhi – 12th August 1857.
Aged 21. Son of Captain David Sherriff, 48th N.I. Born at Sitapur. Joined the Bengal Army in 1855.
Buried in Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Lieut. D.F. Sherriff H.M. 2nd E.B. Fusiliers killed in action against the rebels during the siege of Delhi on 12th August 1857 erected by his brother officers as a mark of their esteem and regard for him.”

Ensign Odlarne Coates Walter – killed in action at Delhi – 18th July 1857.
Aged 19. Joined the Bengal Army in 1856.

3rd Bengal European Fusiliers

Major George Powell Thomas – wounded at Agra, 5th July 1857. died of wounds 4th August 1857.
Aged 48. Son of Lewis and Maria Thomas. Born in Bairamghat, near Lucknow. Husband of Albina Andrews.

1st Bengal Native Infantry
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “To the glory of God and in memory of more than a thousand Christian people, who met their deaths hard by, between 6th June & 15th July 1857. These tablets are placed in this the
Memorial Church. All Souls Cawnpore by the Government N.W.P. 1st Native Infantry. Lieut. Col. John Ewart, Wife & Child. Lieut J.H.C. Ewart, 12th N.I. Captain A. Turner, Wife and Child. Captain E.J. Elms. Lieut. H.S. Smith. Lieut. R.M. Satchwell. Lieut F. Redman. Ensign J.C. Supple. Surgeon A.W.R. Newenman, Wife & Children Sergeant Major C. Hilling, Wife & Child Quarter-Master Sergeant T. Andrews & Family 18 Musicians, 5 Women & 9 Children.”

Colonel John Ewart – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 53. Son of Peter and Marianne, of Manchester. Husband of Emma Fooks. (she and their daughter were also massacred at Cawnpore). Wounded at Cawnpore and killed in the boats.

Captain Edward John Elms – murdered at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 33. Son of the late Revd. Edward Elms, of Itchingfield, Sussex.

Captain Athill Turner – murdered at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Died of wounds received in the boats. His wife, Ellen, and daughter died of fever at Cawnpore.

Lieutenant Frederick Redman – murdered at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 26. Son of George C. Redman, Isle of Thanet, Kent.

Lieutenant Richard Murcott Satchwell – murdered at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 28. Adjutant and Quartermaster. Son of the late Major Satchwell, Asst-Comm-General, Bengal.

Lieutenant Henry Sidney Smith – murdered at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant Godfrey Richard Wheeler – murdered at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “To the glory of God and in memory of more than a thousand Christian people, who met their deaths hard by, between 6th June & 15th July 1857. These tablets are placed in this the
Memorial Church. All Souls Cawnpore by the Government N.W.P.
Staff. Major Genl. Sir H. Wheeler K.C.B. Lady Wheeler & daughters. Lieut G.R. Wheeler 1st N.I. A.D.C. Lieut Col. E. Wiggens 52nd N.I. D.J.A.G. Mrs Wiggens. Major W. Lindsay A.A.G. Mrs Lindsay & Daughters. Ensign G. and Mrs Lindsay. Brigadier General Jack C.B. Mr Jack. Capt. Sir G. Parker 74th N.I. Cant. Magistr. Capt Williamson 71st N.I. D.A.C.G. Mrs Williamson & Child.”

Ensign George Lindsay – murdered at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Only son of the late George Lindsay, Bengal Civil Service.
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “To the glory of God and in memory of more than a thousand Christian people, who met their deaths hard by, between 6th June & 15th July 1857. These tablets are placed in this the
Memorial Church. All Souls Cawnpore by the Government N.W.P.
Staff. Major Genl. Sir H. Wheeler K.C.B. Lady Wheeler & daughters. Lieut G.R. Wheeler 1st N.I. A.D.C. Lieut Col. E. Wiggens 52nd N.I. D.J.A.G. Mrs Wiggens. Major W. Lindsay A.A.G. Mrs Lindsay & Daughters. Ensign G. and Mrs Lindsay. Brigadier General Jack C.B. Mr Jack. Capt. Sir G. Parker 74th N.I. Cant. Magistr. Capt Williamson 71st N.I. D.A.C.G. Mrs Williamson & Child.”

Ensign J.C. Supple – murdered at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

3rd Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant Robert Waller Alexander – killed in action at Delhi – 19th June 1857
Son of Rev. Robert Alexander.
Grave at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Robert Waller Alexander 3rd NI. Son of Revd. R. Alexander of Blackheath Ireland who was killed before Delhi on the night of the 19th June 1857 whilst gallantly engaged in repelling an attack made by the mutineers on the British outposts.

Lieutenant James Yorke – wounded at Delhi, 19th June 1857. died of wounds 1st July 1857
Attached to the 4th Sikh Infantry.

6th Bengal Native Infantry

Captain John Plunkett – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857
Youngest son of William Plunkett, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Inland Revenue.

Lieutenant George Harry Hawes – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857
Aged 25. Quartermaster and Interpreter. Son of William Hawes, of Plymouth.

Lieutenant Robert Stewart – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857
Murdered while at mess. Son of late Robert Stewart, formerly of Calcutta.

Ensign Thomas Bailiff – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857

Ensign Edward E. Beamont – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857

Ensign Arthur M. H. Cheek – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857

Ensign George Lloyd Munro – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857
Eldest son of Lt-Col. O.A. Munro, Bengal Army.

Ensign George Stewart Pringle – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857
Third son of the late W.A. Pringle, Bengal Civil Service.

Ensign Edward M. Smith – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857

7th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant Frederick Blackall Boyd – killed in action at Behar – 9th November 1857
Aged 27. Son of Robert Boyd, of Bromley, Kent.

Lieutenant Ralph Mitford Ingilby – murdered by mutineers at Dinapore – 30th July 1857

Lieutenant William Paul – wounded at Lucknow, 16th November 1857. died of wounds 17th Nov. 1857
Aged 29. Born in Elgin.

Lieutenant Charles Henry Lycett Warren – killed in action at Lucknow – 26th September 1857
Son of Joseph Loxdale Warren, of The Towers, Market Drayton, Shropshire. Aged 24.
Memorial at St Mary’s Church, Market Drayton, Shropshire – “In memory of Charles Henry Lycett Warren Lieutenant in the 8th Bengal Native Infantry and Adjutant of the 12th Bengal Irregular Cavalry son of Joseph Loxdale Warren of the Towers in this Parish Esquire who fell shot through the heart while advancing with the Army under Major General Sir H. Havelock to the Relief of his countrymen besieged in the Residency at Lucknow on the 25th of September 1857 aged 24 years. This tablet is erected by his friends and fellow townsmen in memory of the zeal and spirit and evinced throuhgout the arduous campign which led to the reconquest of Lucknow and the rescue of the besieged from a savage and merciless foe.”

8th Bengal Native Infantry

Captain Charles Frederick Simpson – accidentally killed at Delhi – 19th November 1857
Aged 32. Son of Richard Simpson, of Derby. Joined the Bengal Army in 1845.
Grave at Cashmere Gate Cemetery, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Lieutenant Charles F. Simpson 8th Regiment NI. Major of Brigade Umballa who died at Delhi the 19th November 1857 aged 32 years. Sincerely and deservedly regretted by his affectionate wife and numerous friends.”

Lieutenant Charles Henry Lycett Warreb – killed in action at Lucknow – 23rd September 1857
Memorial at St. Marys Church, Market Drayton, Shropshire – “In memory of Charles Henry Lycett Warren, Lieutenant in the 8th Bengal Native Infantry and Adjutant of the 12th Bengal Irregular Cavalry, son of Joseph Loxdale Warren of the Towers in this parish, who fell shot through the heart whilst advancing with the Army under Major General Sir H. Havelock to the relief of his countrymen beseiged in the Residency at Lucknow, on the 23rd September 1857, aged 24 years. This tablet is erected by his friends and fellow townsmen.”

9th Bengal Native Infantry

Major Lionel Percy Denham Eld – wounded on the Trunk Road – July 1857. died ‘of wounds’ at Weymouth, 11th December 1863
Aged 55. Son of John and Louisa, of Brighton. Husband of Charlotte Campbell.

Lieutenant Frederick Folliot Oldfield – died of wounds at Secundra Bagh, Lucknow – 17th November 1857. Aged 19. Son of Henry Oldfield (Bengal Civil Service). Born in Mozaffarpur. Joined the Bengal Army in 1855.

10th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant-Colonel George Acklom Smith – missing in action at July – 26th July 1857
His wife Mary was also killed.
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “Futtehgurh Fugitives 10th N.I. Colonel G.A. Smith Wife Child.
Major R. Monro. Major J. Phillott. Lieut C.W. Swetenham. Lieut D. Henderson. Ensign R.S. Byrne. Surgeon T.C. & Mrs Heathcote. Musician W.M. Wrixen. Colonel A. Coldie Wife & Daughters. Lieut J.R. Monckton B. Engr. Wife & Child. Asst-Surgeon S. & Mrs Maltby. Contr. M Roban Ordnance Dept. & Family. School Master Sheils & Family. Sergt. Hammond Gun Agency Dept. & Family. Pensioner Faulknor.”

Captain Frederick D’Oyley Bignell – missing at Futtehghur – 26th July 1858

Captain William George Law – killed in action at Delhi – 23rd July 1857 (attached to the 1st Punjab Infantry). Aged 33. Son of William Law. Joined the Bengal Army in 1841. Served with the 1st Punjab Infantry. Grave at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “Amongst the brave soldiers who gave their lives for their country at the siege of Delhi in 1857, none more gallant amd true-hearted have here rest from their labours than Captain W.G. Law who was killed at the attack on the rebels’ position in the Metcalfe Garden on the 23rd July.”

Captain William Lindsay – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 18th June 1857

Captain Robert Munro – murdered by mutineers at Futtehghur – 26th July 1857

Captain William Thornton Phillimore – missing at Futtehghur – 26th July 1857
Aged 36. Son of William Phillimore, of Herts. Shot in the leg at Ferruckabad. Killed while in a boat at Konahere Bithoor.

Captain Johnson Phillott – missing at Futtehghur – 11th July 1857
Aged 47. Reported to have drowned in the Ganges while escaping mutineers. Son of Johnson Phillott, of Hereford.

Lieutenant Henry John Fitzgerald – murdered by mutineers at Futtehghur – 26th July 1857

Lieutenant John Robert Simpson – murdered by mutineers at Futtehghur – 26th July 1857
Son of the late Colonel John Simpson, HEICS.

Lieutenant Charles Worsley Swetenham – murdered by mutineers at Futtehghur – 26th July 1857

Lieutenant Edward S. Whish – murdered at Darjeeling – 16th June 1857
Second son of late Lieut-General Whish, of Clifton, Gloucestershire. (ref. The Times)

Ensign R. S. Byrne – murdered by mutineers at Futtehghur – 26th July 1857

Ensign David Henderson – murdered by mutineers at Futtehghur – 26th July 1857
Acting Adjutant, Interpreter and Quartermaster. Son of Capt. Henderson, of Semster, Caithness.

11th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant-Colonel John Finnis – murdered by mutineers at Meerut – 10th May 1857
Aged 53. Son of Robert and Elizabeth Finnis, of Hythe. Born 28th January 1804. Served Punjab 1848 (medal). The first European officer killed in the Mutiny. Husband of Sarah Roche.
Grave at Meerut – “To the memory of John Finnis Colonel 11th Regt N.I. who fell while endeavouring to quell the mutiny in the 20th Regt. N.I. May 10th 1857 aged 53 years.”

12th Bengal Native Infantry

Captain John Dunlop – murdered by mutineers at Jhansi – 5th June 1857
Aged 34. Son of

Lieutenant James H. C. Ewart – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 31. Eldest son of James S. Ewart, of Fortis Green, Finchley.
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “To the glory of God and in memory of more than a thousand Christian people, who met their deaths hard by, between 6th June & 15th July 1857. These tablets are placed in this the
Memorial Church. All Souls Cawnpore by the Government N.W.P. 1st Native Infantry. Lieut. Col. John Ewart, Wife & Child. Lieut J.H.C. Ewart, 12th N.I. Captain A. Turner, Wife and Child. Captain E.J. Elms. Lieut. H.S. Smith. Lieut. R.M. Satchwell. Lieut F. Redman. Ensign J.C. Supple. Surgeon A.W.R. Newenman, Wife & Children Sergeant Major C. Hilling, Wife & Child Quarter-Master Sergeant T. Andrews & Family 18 Musicians, 5 Women & 9 Children.”

Lieutenant William C. L. Ryves – murdered by mutineers at Jhansi – 5th June 1857

Ensign James Henry Barber – murdered by mutineers at Jhansi – 5th June 1857
The Times 22-8-57, states: died 20th June in Bundelcund from sun-stroke while seeking refuge from the mutineers. Eldest son of Capt. Barber, of Merton Abbey, Surrey.

Ensign Stanhope B. Taylor – murdered by mutineers at Jhansi – 5th June 1857

Assistant-Surgeon William Barker McEgan – murdered by mutineers at Jhansi – 5th June 1857.
Born 30th May 1817. Served in the Crimea with the Turkish Contingent.

13th Bengal Native Infantry

Memorial in the Residency, Lucknow – “Sacred to the memory of Major C.F. Bruere. Captain R.B. Francis. Lieut G.W. Green. Ensign L. Inglis of the Honble E.I. Company’s 13th Regt N.I. who fell whilst serving with their Regiment in the defence of Lucknow 1857. Also of Capt A. Turnbull who died in the Cawnpore Entrenchment and Lieut E.W. Banwell.”

Captain Robert Bransby Francis – killed in action by round shot at Lucknow – 8th July 1857
Both his legs were blown off by a round-shot.

Lieutenant Edward William Banwell – murdered by mutineers at Hissar – 29th May 1857

Lieutenant G.A.P. Younghusband – wounded at Futteyghur 2nd January 1858. Died of wounds 4th Jan.
Aged 26. Son of Major-General Younghusband, Royal Artillery. Commanding 5th Punjab Cavalry when wounded.

14th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant Charles Battine – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 24. Son of Major-General Battine, CB, Bengal Artillery.

Lieutenant Frederick James MacDonnell – killed in action at Lucknow – 23rd March 1857

15th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant James Archibald Campbell – murdered by mutineers at Nusseerabad – 6th May 1857
Aged 24. Killed while commanding the 14th Irregular Cavalry. Eldest son of Lt-Col. John Campbell (retired), Bengal Army.

Lieutenant Osbert D’Abitot Thackwell – killed in action at Lucknow – 20th March 1858
Aged 22. Son of Lt-General Sir Joseph Thackwell, GCB, 16th Lancers.

16th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant Frederick Cortland Angelo – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “Sacred to the memory of Frederick Cortlandt Angelo 16th Grenadiers, B.N.I., ..nt of the 4th Division Ganges Canal, who fell in the mutiny at Cawnpore, on the 27th June 1857, in the 32nd year of his age, erected by his sorrowing widow.”

Lieutenant James Fullerton – accidentally killed at Lucknow – 15th September 1857
Aged 27. Son of Lord Fullerton. Fell from a balcony of the Residency.

Ensign H. L. Marsh – killed in action at Maun Sing’s Garden – 24th August 1857

17th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant Robert Popkin Homfray – wounded at Delhi, 15th September 1857. died of wounds 16th September 1857
Aged 22. Son of Robert, he was born in Calcutta. Joined the Bengal Army in 1852.
Grave at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “This monument is erected to the memory of Lieut. Robt Popkin Homfary of the 17th Regt. NI and adjt. of the 4th Punjaub Infantry, by his devoted brothers and sisters. this brave young officer died at the age of 22 years on the 16th September 1857 from wounds received on the preceding day whilst gallantly leading on his men in action.”

Lieutenant Percy George Hutchinson – murdered by mutineers at Azimghur – 3rd June 1857
Quartermaster. Aged 25.

Lieutenant Edward Thomas Kemp – wounded at Sassia Ghat, 15th January 1857. died at Mela Ghat, 16th January. (attached to the Kamaon Levy). Aged 22. Joined the Bengal Army in 1853.

Lieutenant E. D. F. Lewis – wounded at Ghazeepore, 18th July 1857. died of wounds 1st September 1857

18th Bengal Native Infantry

Major Henry Edward Pearson – murdered by ‘villagers’ near Bareilly – 6th June 1857
Aged 46. Son of Rev. Thomas and Sarah, of Worcestershire. Husband of Fanny Williamson.

Captain Hugh Vans Hathorn – murdered by ‘villagers’ near Bareilly – 6th June 1857
Only son of the late Vans Hathorn, of Edinburgh.

Captain Taylor Campbell Richardson – murdered by ‘villagers’ near Bareilly – 6th June 1857

Lieutenant Henry Ross Stewart – murdered by ‘villagers’ near Bareilly – 6th June 1857
Memorial at St. Michaels Church, Melksham, Wiltshire – “Sacred to the memory of Lieutenant Henry Ross Stewart, 18th Regt BNI who lost his life whilst endeavouring to escape from Bareilly after the Mutiny of May 31st aged 26 years.”

Ensign Charles Keith Dashwood – wounded at Lucknow, 23rd November 1857. died of wounds
Died in hsopital at Lucknow, having had both his feet blown off by a round-shot on 4th November. Aged 19. Son of Lt-Col. A.W. Dashwood, of Shenley Grange, Herts.

Ensign John Charles Dyson – murdered by ‘villagers’ at Bareilly – 6th June 1857

19th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant Sir Norman Leslie – murdered by mutineers at Rohnee – 12th June 1857
Murdered by men of the 5th Irregular Cavalry with whom he was serving. The murderers were caught and executed.

20th Bengal Native Infantry

Captain Donald McDonald – murdered by mutineers at Meerut – 10th May 1857
Fourth son of Capt. Archibald McDonald (RN).
Grave at Meerut – “To the memory of Donald MacDonald Captain 20th Regiment N.I. who was killed by his own men on the 10th May 1857. Aged 35 years. and of Louisa Sophia, his wife, aged 30 years. Who was barabarously murdered the same night while trying to make her escape with her three infants from her burning house to the European Lines.”

Captain John Henry George Taylor – murdered by mutineers at Meerut – 10th May 1857
Son of Lieutenant-Colonel John William and Emma Taylor. Born in 1820.
Grave at Meerut – “To the memory of John Henry George Taylor Captain Late of the 20th Regiment N.I. Killed during the Mutiny at Meerut on May 10th 1857.”

Lieutenant George Douglas Barbor – killed in action at Lucknow – 1st June 1857

Lieutenant David Henry Henderson – murdered by mutineers at Meerut – 10th May 1857
Only son of Lieut. David Henderson, R.N., of St. John’s Wood, Regents Park.
Grave at Meerut – “Sacred to the memory of David Henry Henderson Lieutenant Bengal Native Infantry who was killed during the mutiny at Meerut on the 10th May 1857, aged 31 years.”

Lieutenant Mervyn Archdall Humphrys – killed in action at Delhi – 19th June 1857
(attached to the 1/60th Foot). Aged 26. Son of William and Anna, of Co. Cavan. Joined the Bengal Army in 1850. Grave in Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Lieutenant M. A. Humphrys of the 20th N.I. who was killed in action on the 19th June 1857.”

Lieutenant William Pattle – murdered by mutineers at Meerut – 10th May 1857.
Grave at Meerut – “William Pattle Lieutenant. 20th Regiment Native Infantry. Born 21st June 1832 was killed in the Mutiny at Meerut on 10th May 1857.”

21st Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant Francis Walker Brodie – murdered by mutineers at Muttragur – 7th June 1857

22nd Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant J.W.H. Anderson – murdered by mutineers at Gorukpore – 8th June 1857
Son of John Anderson, of Ryall Hill, Worcester.

Lieutenant Arthur Bright – murdered by mutineers at Gorukpore – 8th June 1857
Aged 26. Son of Robert Bright, of Abbot’s Leigh, Somerset. Killed by mutineers of the 17th BNI.
Memorial at Holy Trinity Church, Abbots Leigh, Avon  – “In memory of Arthur, 6th son of Robert and Caroline Bright, Lieutenant and Adjutant of the 22nd Regiment of Bengal Native Infantry full of the highest promise he perished by the hands of mutineers from another regment near Fyzabad Oudh on the 9th of June 1857 in the 27th year of his age.”

Lieutenant George Lister Cautley – murdered by mutineers at Gorukpore – 8th June 1857
Aged 24. Son of Lt-Col. George Cautley, 6th Bengal Cavalry.

Lieutenant Augustus Frederic English – murdered by mutineers at Gorukpore – 8th June 1857
Son of the late Sir John English.

Lieutenant Thomas Edward Lindesay – murdered by mutineers at Gorukpore – 8th June 1857

Lieutenant Frederick W. Ripley – murdered by mutineers at Gorukpore – 8th June 1857

Lieutenant Walter Harrington Thomas – murdered by mutineers at Gorukpore – 8th June 1857
Son of Capt. G.H. Thomas, 7th Madras Cavalry.

23rd Bengal Native Infantry

Colonel John Platt – murdered by mutineers at Mhow – 1st July 1857
Aged 55. Son of Rev. Alexander and Charlotte Platt, of Langley, Herts. Husband of Charlotte Atkinson.
Memorial at St. Marys church, Watford – “In memory of Lt col. John Platt, Lt Col Charles Chester, Capt. James Fagan, Capt. Thom H. Hilliard all of the XXIII Regt Bengal Native Infantry who fell in the Mutiny and Rebellion in India AD MDCCCLVIII. Erected by their brother officers.”

Captain James Fagan – murdered by mutineers at Mhow – 1st July 1857

Captain Thomas Holyoake Hilliard – murdered at Chatteerea – 31st May 1857
Aged 30. Born in Middlesex. Joined the Bengal Army in 1842. Adjutant of the Hariana Light infantry. When they mutineed at Sirsa he was spared and allowed to depart, but was murdered by villagers soon after.
Grave at Sirsa Cemetery – “Sacred to the memory of Lieut. J.H. Hilliard, second in command, late Hurrianah battalion and Mr. J.W. Fell, Assistant Patrol, Customs Department, who were both treacherously murdered on the 30th May 1857 by the rebel inhabitants of the village of Chutrayan in the Sirsa District. this tomb was erected over the recovered remains by order of the Government.”

24th Bengal Native Infantry

Ensign Marshall Deverall Smith – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857
Aged 19 years and 4 months. Son of Samuel Smith, of Westbourne Terrace Road, London, late of Calcutta.

25th Bengal Native Infantry

Captain Charles George Brodie – killed in action at Mehidpore – 18th November 1857

Ensign Julian Hayter – wounded at Benares, 16th June 1857. died of wounds

26th Bengal Native Infantry

Major Robert Spencer – murdered by mutineers at Mean Meer – 30th July 1857
Aged 44. Born in London. Son of Robert and Anne. Joined the Bengal Army in 1827.
Tablet in St. Mary Magdalene’s Church, Lahore – “Sacred to the memory of Brigadier Isaac Handscombe, Bt. Major Robert Spencer and Sergeant Major John Potter who were barbarously murdered by the mutineers when nobly attempting to recall their men to their duty, the first fell at Lucknow on the 31st May and the two last at Meean Meer on the 30th July 1857.”

Lieutenant John Tierney Davidson – killed in action at Delhi – 14th September 1857
(attached to the 2nd Punjab Infantry). Aged 18 years & 9 weeks.
Tablet in St. Mary Magdalene’s Church, Lahore – “To the memory of Ensign John Tierney Davidson who was killed at Delhi on 14th Septr 1857.”

27th Bengal Native Infantry

Captain George Thomas Gowan – killed in action in Oude – 8th June 1857
Memorial at St. Pauls Cathedral, Calcutta – “To the beloved memory of George Thomas Gowan Captain of the 27th Regiment Bengal Native Infantry and commandant 9th regiment Oude Irregular Force, second son of Major Genl G.E. Gowan Bengal Artillery, Killed at Topore, Oude, June 1857 in the 35th year of his age He fell whilst endeavouring to recall the mutinous sepoys of his own force to order and obedience. And also to the memory of Olivia Grace daughter of Major General James Stuart Bengal Army and wife of Captain G.T. Gowan who with their infant son George Boyce Combe cruelly murdered by the rebels at Tapore June 1857 “

Captain John Nicholson – wounded at Delhi, 14th September 1857. died of wounds 23rd September.

Lieutenant George William Fraser – missing in action in Oude – 8th June 1857

28th Bengal Native Infantry

Captain Henry John Guise – killed in action at Benares – 4th June 1857
Attached to the 13th Irregular Cavalry.

Captain Marshall James – murdered by mutineers at Shahjehanpore – 31st October 1857
Killed in church. Aged 37. Only son of Lt-Col. James, HEIC, of Saltford House, Bath.

Captain Cornelius Lysaght – murdered by mutineers at Mohumdee – 23rd June 1857

Captain Mordant M. Salmon – murdered by mutineers at Mohumdee – 23rd June 1857

Captain H. W. L. Sneyd – murdered by mutineers at Shahjehanpore – 31st October 1857

Lieutenant George James Johnston – murdered by mutineers at Mohumdee – 23rd June 1857

Lieutenant Alexander Key – murdered by mutineers at Mohumdee – 23rd June 1857
Eldest son of John Key, Grosvenor Place, London. His wife Mary was also killed.

Lieutenant William W. Pitt – murdered by mutineers at Mohumdee – 23rd June 1857

Lieutenant Colin A. Robertson – murdered by mutineers at Mohumdee – 23rd June 1857

Lieutenant George W. Rutherford – murdered by mutineers at Mohumdee – 23rd June 1857

Lieutenant Edmund Cadell Scott – murdered by mutineers at Mohumdee – 23rd June 1857
Aged 18 years and 2 months. Son of Major G.D. Scott, of Winkfield, Berkshire.

Ensign Thomas John Hope Spens – murdered by mutineers at Mohumdee – 23rd June 1857
Aged 21. Only son of the late Thomas Spens, MD, HEICS.

30th Bengal Native Infantry

Captain John Tower Lumsden – killed in action at Lucknow – 16th November 1857

Lieutenant Jonathan Cape – killed in action at Lucknow – 20th March 1858

31st Bengal Native Infantry

Colonel Alexander Jack – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857.
Aged 51. Son of Rev. William and Grace Jack, of Aberdeen.
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “To the glory of God and in memory of more than a thousand Christian people, who met their deaths hard by, between 6th June & 15th July 1857. These tablets are placed in this the
Memorial Church. All Souls Cawnpore by the Government N.W.P.
Staff. Major Genl. Sir H. Wheeler K.C.B. Lady Wheeler & daughters. Lieut G.R. Wheeler 1st N.I. A.D.C. Lieut Col. E. Wiggens 52nd N.I. D.J.A.G. Mrs Wiggens. Major W. Lindsay A.A.G. Mrs Lindsay & Daughters. Ensign G. and Mrs Lindsay. Brigadier General Jack C.B. Mr Jack. Capt. Sir G. Parker 74th N.I. Cant. Magistr. Capt Williamson 71st N.I. D.A.C.G. Mrs Williamson & Child.”

Captain Thomas Charles Birch – murdered by mutineers at Pophamon – 7th June 1857.
Aged 42. Son of John and Anna Birch, of Calcutta. Born in Bengal. Husband of Caroline Amesbury.

Captain Charles M. Parsons – murdered by mutineers at Oude – 8th June 1857.
Attached to the 6th Oude Irregular Infantry.

Ensign Henry George Wadham Spens – killed in an explosion at Bundlekund – 23rd June 1857

32nd Bengal Native Infantry

Captain Charles Robert George Douglas – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857
Aged 33. Husband of Louisa Robinson.

Lieutenant Henry C. A. Cooper – murdered by mutineers at Deoghur – 9th October 1857

Lieutenant John Egremont Lee – killed in action in Oude – 21st March 1858
Memorial at Kells Parish Church, Galloway – “Erected by Jane C. Maitland in loving memory of her husband, John Gordon Maitland …. Also of her brother Lieut. John Egremont Lee, 32nd Bengal Native Infantry, during the Indian Mutiny he was killed in an attack on the Fort of Tirowlee, Oude, 21st March 1858, aged 27 years.”

Lieutenant Henry Strickland Lester – wounded at Lucknow – 14th July 1857. died of wounds
Aged 30. Assistant-Commissioner of Seetapore. Son of Lt. J.Y. Lester, 7th Royal Fusiliers. Wounded during a rebel assault on Gubbin’s Post.

Lieutenant Eaton Joseph Travers – killed in action at Delhi – 3rd August 1857
Attached to the 1st Punjab Infantry. Aged 29. Son of Major-General Robert Travers, KCMG, CB (Rifle Brigade). Joined the Bengal Army in 1845. Husband of Harriet Aylmer.
Grave at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “Lieutenant E.J. Travers killed in the advanced trenches at Hindu Rao’s house, on the 2nd August.”

Ensign George Edward Hill – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

33rd Bengal Native Infantry

Major John Sherbrooke Banks – killed at Lucknow, shot in the head – 21st July 1857
Chief Commissioner of Lucknow. Aged 46. Son of Samuel and Lucinda. Husband of Elizabeth Fearon.

Lieutenant John Hugh Browne – killed in action at Delhi – 6th August 1857
Attached to the Kemoon Battalion. Aged 28 years & 5 months. Son of John Browne, of Gray’s Inn (barrister).

35th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant Frederick John Salmon Bagshaw – wounded at Jullundur, 7th June 1857. died of wounds 12th June. Aged 30. Fought in the Sutlej Campaign (1846) and Punjab Campaign (1848). Son of Revd. W.S. Bagshaw, rector of Thrapston.

36th Bengal Native Infantry

Brevet Major Thomas Mould Edgar Moorhouse – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 4th June 1857 Aged 49. Son of John and Eliza, of London. Husband of Fanny Fitzgerald.

Lieutenant Arthur Wellesley Craigie – wounded at Narnaul, 16th November 1857. died of wounds, 30th November at Delhi. Aged 24. Son of George, of Perth.
Grave at Cashmere Gate Cemetery, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Arthur Wellesley Craigie youngest son of George Clark Craigie Esqr. of Dumbarnie, Perthshire, Scotland Lieutenant in the 36th regiment Bengal Native Infantry and doing duty with the Guide Cavalry he was present at the siege of Delhi and was wounded at Narnoul on the 14th Novr. and died on the 30th Novr. 1857. Aged 24. this monument is erected by his brother.”

Lieutenant Octavius Greene – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
2nd-in-command of 9th Oude Irregular Force. Served in Sutlej and Punjab Campaigns.

37th Bengal Native Infantry

Ensign Henry Chapman – wounded by mutineers at Benares – 4th June 1857. died of wounds

Ensign Maurice Tweedie – wounded by mutineers at Benares – 4th June 1857. died of wounds

38th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant-Colonel Philip Goldney – murdered by mutineers at Fyzabad – 9th June 1857
Aged 55. Son of Thomas and Charlotte, of London. Husband of Mary Holbrow.

Major George Edward Hollings – wounded by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857. died of wounds.
Aged 47. Son of William Hollings, he was born in Calcutta. Joined the Bengal Army in 1826. Husband of Harriet Boscawen. Memorial at Kasauli – “George Hollings Bt Major who died at Mussoorie 8th May.” According to the date he died 2 days before his Regiment mutinied?

Major John Waterfield – murdered by mutineers near Ferozabad – 14th May 1858
Aged 45. Son of William and Elizabeth, of London. Husband of Helen Blair.

Captain Arthur Gibbings – murdered by mutineers at Fyzabad – 9th June 1857
Aged 33. Son of Rev. Thomas Gibbings, of Co. Cork. Served in Kabul (1842) and the Punjab (1848). (attached to the 15th Irregular Cavalry).
Memorial at Kasauli – “Arthur Gibbings Captain, murdered at Seetapore Oude on 9th June.”

Lieutenant Alexander John Anderson – killed in action at Lucknow – 10th March 1858
Aged 31. From Montrane, Fife, Scotland. Attached 2nd Punjab Infantry.

Lieutenant Charles Henry Fitzroy Gambier – wounded at Delhi, 14th September 1857. died of wounds 18th Sept. Aged 22. Eldest son of S. James Gambier, of Ashley Lodge, Cheltenham.
Grave at Delhi – “The grave of Lt. C.H.F. Gambier, 38th N.I. who fell mortally wounded in the ranks of the 2nd E.B. Fusiliers at the assault of Delhi and died 18th Sept 1857, aged 22.”

Ensign E. E. Beaumont – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 6th June 1857

39th Bengal Native Infantry

Captain John Sinclair – killed in action at Jhansi – 5th April 1858

Lieutenant Archibald Procter – murdered by mutineers at Moorar – 14th June 1857
Son of Revd. Thomas Proctor.
Grave at the Christian Cemetery, Gwalior – “Sacred to the memory of Archibald Proctor Lieut. 39th Regt. N.I. Died at Gwalior June 15th 1857 Aged 29.”

Ensign John Chalmers – killed in action at Delhi – 14th September 1857

40th Bengal Native Infantry

Major Charles Aeneas Burton – murdered by mutineers at Kotah – 15th October 1857
Political Agent. Aged 45. Son of Charles and Mary. Born in Dinapore. His 2 sons, Arthur and Francis, were murdered with him.

Captain Andrew A. Beecher – wounded at Lucknow – 26th September 1857. died of wounds 8th October. Attached to the 90th Foot. Aged 35.

Lieutenant Edward John Wild – killed in action at Lucknow – 25th September 1857

41st Bengal Native Infantry

Colonel Hugh Sibbald, CB. – murdered by mutineers at Bareilly – 31st May 1857
Aged 66. Son of William and Katherine. Husband of Mary Tichborne. Shot in the chest while riding to the parade ground by one of his orderlies.

Major Frederick William Birch – murdered by mutineers at Seetapore – 9th June 1857
Aged 43. Son of Richard (Bengal Civil Service) and Frances. Born in Bengal. Husband of Jean Walker. The Times states 3rd June.

Captain Matthew Francis Kemble – died of wounds at Lucknow

Captain William Williamson – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 33. Deputy-Asst-Commissary-General. Son of the late Major-General David Williamson, Bengal Army Served in the Sutlej and Punjab Campaigns (medals & clasps). His wife, Jesse, and infant daughter, Eleanor also killed at Cawnpore.

Lieutenant John Henry Graves – wounded in head at Seetapore – died of cholera at Lucknow – 7th July 1857
Only son of Brigadier Henry Graves.

Lieutenant Robert Thornton Smalley – murdered by mutineers at Seetapore – 9th June 1857

42nd Bengal Native Infantry

Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Dalyell – killed in action at Kukrowlie – 18th September 1857
Aged 51. Son of John and Jane, of Lingo, Fife. Husband of Margaret Andrews.

43rd Bengal Native Infantry

Ensign Robert A. Smith – wounded at Mandwar – 21st January 1858. died of wounds

44th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant John Graydon – wounded at Lucknow – 26th October 1857. died of wounds 28th October.
Son of Colonel Graydon, Royal Engineers.

Lieutenant John Smith – murdered by mutineers at Mozuffurnuggur – 21st June 1857

45th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant-Colonel George Biddulph – killed in action at Lucknow – 18th November 1857
Aged 46. Son of Rev. John and Sophia, of Warwickshire.

46th Bengal Native Infantry

Colonel Andrew Goldie – murdered by mutineers at Fyttehghur – 15th June 1857
(Military Auditor General). Aged 64. Son of Rev. William Goldie. Husband of Mary.
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “Futtehgurh Fugitives 10th N.I. Colonel G.A. Smith Wife Child.
Major R. Monro. Major J. Phillott. Lieut C.W. Swetenham. Lieut D. Henderson. Ensign R.S. Byrne. Surgeon T.C. & Mrs Heathcote. Musician W.M. Wrixen. Colonel A. Coldie Wife & Daughters. Lieut J.R. Monckton B. Engr. Wife & Child. Asst-Surgeon S. & Mrs Maltby. Contr. M Roban Ordnance Dept. & Family. School Master Sheils & Family. Sergt. Hammond Gun Agency Dept. & Family. Pensioner Faulknor.”

Captain William Louis Mosheim Bishop – murdered by mutineers at Sialkote – 9th July 1857.
Aged 39. Served in the Punjab Campaign (1848). He was Brigade Major at Sialkote when the mutiny broke out, he was killed while helping his wife escape. In The Times (2-9-57) states ‘shot by a trooper of the 9th Cavalry.’
Grave at the Cemetery near the Fort at Sialkote – “In memory of Captain W.L.M. Bishop 46th regt. NI. Killed in the mutiny at Sealkote on 9th July 1857 aged 39 years. Erected by his brother officers.”
A tablet in Holy Trinity Church, Sialkote – “To the memory of William Louis Mosheim Bishop, Captain in the 46th regiment NI who was killed by a party of native cavalry, in the mutiny at Sealkote on the 9th July 1857 also of his infant son Florance Louis, who died near Sealkote on the 7th March 1857. A token of affection from a sorrowing wife and mother.”

47th Bengal Native Infantry

Ensign Arthur James Scott – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 6th June 1857
Aged 17 years and 4 months. Second son of James Scott, of Cadogan Place, London. Killed while on temp. duty with the 6th N.I.

48th Bengal Native Infantry

Captain Henry Garden Burmester – murdered by mutineers at Lucknow – 1st June 1857

Lieutenant Gilbert Ironside Bax – killed in action at Seetapore – 3rd June 1857
Aged 24. Killed in the sortie from Cawnpore. Third son of John Bax, of Twyford House, Herts.

Lieutenant Alexander J. Dashwood – wounded at Lucknow – 6th October 1857. died of wounds

Lieutenant Charles Martin Farquharson – murdered by mutineers at Lucknow – 1st June 1857
Aged 20. Son of R.N. Farquharson, Civil Service.

52nd Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant-Colonel Edward Wiggins – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Serving as Deputy-Judge Advocate General. His 2 youngest children killed with him. His wife died during the siege.
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “To the glory of God and in memory of more than a thousand Christian people, who met their deaths hard by, between 6th June & 15th July 1857. These tablets are placed in this the
Memorial Church. All Souls Cawnpore by the Government N.W.P.
Staff. Major Genl. Sir H. Wheeler K.C.B. Lady Wheeler & daughters. Lieut G.R. Wheeler 1st N.I. A.D.C. Lieut Col. E. Wiggens 52nd N.I. D.J.A.G. Mrs Wiggens. Major W. Lindsay A.A.G. Mrs Lindsay & Daughters. Ensign G. and Mrs Lindsay. Brigadier General Jack C.B. Mr Jack. Capt Sir G. Parker 74th N.I. Cant. Magistr. Capt Williamson 71st N.I. D.A.C.G. Mrs Williamson & Child.”

Lieutenant Francis A.R. MacGregor – murdered by mutineers at Kutungee – 27th September 1857
Aged 33. Detained as a hostage and then murdered. Son of the late General Sir Evar M. MacGregor.

53rd Bengal Native Infantry

Major William Reade Hillersdon – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 39. Son of John Hillersdon, of Barnes, Surrey. Another son, Charles (Magistrate) was also murdered.

Captain Henry Belson – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Captain John H. Reynolds – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Captain Frederic Henry Tomkinson – murdered by mutineers at Amaen – June/July (November?) 1857
Escaped to Amaen, where he was betrayed and shot. Son of Capt. Tomkinson (RN) and Frances.
Memorial at All Saints Church, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire – “James Tomkinson Esq. Post Captain in the Royal Navy, eldest son of John Tomkinson, of Knightly Hall in the county of Staffordshire, who died at Leamington 18 January 1839 and is buried in the adjoining cemetery. In memory of his only sons, Hill James Tomkinson, Captain Royal Artillery who died at Fishguard Pembrokeshire on 27 July 1858 aged 28 years and is buried at Manor Owen in that county and Frederic Henry Tomkinson, Captain 53rd Regt BNI aged 25 years, who, serving with his regiment in India during the rebellion of 1857, was killed in November of that year by the mutineers of the Gwalior Contingent at Amaen in Oude, in a gallant attempt, alone and unarmed, to explode the enemy’s ammunition.”

Lieutenant (Adjutant) Herbert H. Armstrong – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 27. Son of Archibald Armstrong, of Guernsey.

Lieutenant Oliver Simpson Bridges – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 22. Son of John William Bridges, of 30 Tavistock Square, London.

Lieutenant Frederick G. Jellicoe – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant Gilbert Augustus Master – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 25. Son of Lt-Col. R.A. Master, 7th Light Cavalry.

Lieutenant William George Prole – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Ensign Alexander Dowson – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Ensign Thomas W. Forman – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

54th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant-Colonel John Peter Ripley – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857
Aged 55. Born in Essex. Son of Rev. Thomas and Mary. Joined the Bengal Army in 1819. Husband of Amelia Wilson.

Major Muirson Trower Blake – murdered by mutineers at Moorar – 14th June 1857
Serving with the Gwalior Contingent. Aged 47. Born in Berkhampore. Son of William. Husband of Charlotte Ricketts.

Captain Cosby Burrowes – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857
Aged 31. Son of Liuet. Cosby Burrowes of the 45th Bengal N.I. Born at Dinapore. Served in the Sutlej Campaign. Killed ‘while gallantly defending his Colonel in a skirmish with the mutineers’ (ref. The Times 19-8-57)

Captain Claude William Russell – killed in action at Badli-ke-Serai – 8th June 1857
Aged 36. Joined the Bengal Army in 1840. Son of Charles Du Pre Russell (fomerly Bengal Civil Service)
Grave at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Captain C.W. Russell 54th BNI killed in action at Badlee ka Sarai 8th June 1857.”

Captain Rowland Mainwaring Smith – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857
Aged 32. Son of Charles Smith, of Northampton.
Buried on the Ridge – “Sacred to the memory of Captain R.M. Smith, Captain C. Burrowes, Lieut. E.A. Edwards, Lieut. W. Waterfield. All of the 54th Regt. BNI. They were killed by the mutineers of the 3rd Bengal Light Cavalry on the 11th May 1857 opposite the church in the city of Delhi, this tribute to their memory and merits is erected by their surviving brother officers.”

Captain William Waterfield – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857
Aged 21. Joined the Bengal Army in 1853.

Lieutenant Charles John Butler – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857
Ref. The Times 25-8-57: wounded in the head by a stone from a house top and a musket ball in the face, killed on the road to Meerut. Eldest son of Charles Butler, of Stock, Essex.

Lieutenant Ernest Andrew Edwards – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857
Aged 29. Son of R.V. Edwards, of Clifton. Husband of Elizabeth Leigh.
Grave on the Ridge, Delhi – “This tablet is sacred to the memory of departed worth to Lieut. E.A. Edwards 54th regt. BNI eldest son of R.V. Edwards Esqr. of Clifton, Bristol, who with five of his brother officers fell at the head of his regt. in the massacre of Delhi on the 11th May 1857, aged 27 years. As a soldier, ever ready, where Duty called him a dutiful son and kind and indulgent father but most conspicuous in the endearing character of husband, his fond care and affection with the memory of his many sterling qualities will ever be sacredly cherished by her who must mourn his sad and untimely end. This tomb is erected by his bereaved and sorrowing widow, as a trifling mark of love and respect to the memory of a truly kind and most affectionate husband.”

Ensign Alfred Mansell Angelo – murdered by mutineers between Delhi and Meerut – 11th May 1857
Ref. The Times 28-8-57: murdered 13th or 14th of May by villagers after escaping from Delhi. Aged 20. Second son of Colonel Richard Angelo, 34th BNI, formerly Commandant of the Delhi Palace Guard.

Ensign Charles Edward Wheatley – killed in action by a canon ball at Delhi – 17th June 1857
Aged 19. Joined the Bengal Army in 1854.
Grave at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Ensign C.E. Wheatley, 54th BNI killed before Delhi 17th June 1857.”

55th Bengal Native Infantry

Captain George Gordon McBarnett – killed in action at Delhi – 14th September 1857
(attached to the 1st Bengal European Fusiliers). Aged 34. Son of Capt. Donald McBarnett, of Ballichroan, Inverness-shire. Joined the Bengal Army in 1840.
Grave in Sadar Bazar, Dehi – “Here repose the following officer, non commissioned officers and men of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers killed in the attack on the enemys fortified position at Kissen-gunge on the morning of the successful assault and storm of Delhi. Captain G.G. McBarnett, 55th NI (attached)..”
Memorial at the old church, Kingussie, St. Columba’s – “Sacred to the memory of Captain George Gordon McBarnet, 55th Regiment Bengal Native Infantry, who being attached to the 1st Bengal European Regiment Fusiliers, fell at the assault of Delhi on the 14th September 1857, aged 33 years. Few among the many heroes slain on the soil of Delhi will live longer in memory; young, gallant, and gifted with the noblest qualities, mental and personal, he fell when he could least be spared. Could soldier ask a more glorious death? In token of the love they bore their comrade this tablet is erected by his Brother-Officers.”

56th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant-Colonel Stephen Williams – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 52. Son of Henry Williams (Bengal Civil Service). Husband of Mary Blanchard (she was murdered in the massacre at Cawnpore).

Major Walter Roger Prout – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 36. His wife, Lucy, was also killed.

Captain John Weston Delmain – killed in action at Badli-ke-Serai – 8th June 1857
Aged 29. Son of Colonel John Delmain, CB. of the Bengal Infantry. Born at Agra. Served in the Punjab (1848). Ref. The Times (11-9-57) kille ‘while leading a party of the 75th at the taking of the 24-pdr battery on the day of his arrival at Delhi.
Grave at Delhi – “Captain Delamain HEICS killed in action June 8, 1857.”

Captain William L. Halliday – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Captain George Kempland – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant Quintin Henry Battye – killed in action at Delhi – 10th June 1857.
(attached to the Guides Cavalry). Aged 25. Born at Kishnagarh, Bengal. Son of George Battye. Served in Burma Campaign (1853).
Grave at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Quintin Battye, Lieutenant in the late 55th Regiment Bengal Native Infantry and 2nd in command of the Corps of Guides who fell whilst nobly performing his duty against the mutineers before Delhi on the 9th June 1857. this tomb is erected by his brother officers in the Guides as a slight token of their respect and esteem for his many soldierlike and amiable qualities.”

Lieutenant William A. Chalmers – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant Hornby Fagan – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant Charles R. Goad – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant W. H. J. Gregory – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant William Gordon Morris – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 23. Son of Lt-Commander George Morris, RN.

Lieutenant Henry John Gregory Warde – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 19. Son of Rear-Admiral Warde, KH, of Neath, Glamorganshire.

Ensign Robert Browne – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Ref. The Times: died of cholera at Cawnpore, 22nd August. Aged 26. Son of Robert Brown, of Portland Square, formerly of Calcutta.

Ensign John Wright Henderson – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
on of Revd. Robert Henderson, of Stirling. His brother, Robert was killed with the 72nd B.N.I.

Ensign Robert Allen Stevens – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Second son of Revd. Henry Stevens, of Wateringbury, Kent.

Assistant Surgeon John Pierce Bowling – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Youngest son of John Bowling, of Pingsworth House, Hammersmith.

57th Bengal Native Infantry

Ensign Edmund Clough – murdered by mutineers at Meerut – 10th May 1857

58th Bengal Native Infantry

Captain Lionel Gomez Da Costa – died of wounds at Lucknow – 14th March 1858
Aged 34. Wounded and died same day. 2nd-in-command of the Ferozepore Regt.

59th Bengal Native Infantry

Major James Garner Holmes – murdered by mutineers at Segowlie – 23rd July 1857
(attached to the 12th Irregular Cavalry). Son of Revd. D. Holmes. His wife, Alexandrina (daughter of Major-General Sir Robert Sale) was also killed.

Lieutenant Frederick W. Birch – killed in action at Lucknow – 2nd September 1857

61st Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant Edward Thomas Kemp – died of wounds – 16th January 1859
Aged 23. Wounded at Sassia Ghat, 15th January 1859 and died next day in camp at Mela Ghat. See memorial below.

Lieutenant John Powys – murdered by mutineers at Jhansi – 6th May 1857
Aged 29. Son of Captain Robert Powys, 12th Bengal N.I. Born in Nasirabad. Joined the Bengal Army in 1846. Husband of Caroline Holmes. (she died with their 8 month old daughter in the massacre at Jhansi).
Memorial in St. Luke’s Church, Jullundur – “To the memory of Lieutenants John Powys, Edward Kemp, and Ensign Herbert Durnford, of the 61st Regiment N.I. who fell in action whilst serving in the earnest performance of their duty, during the rebellion of 1857-59. This token of esteem and sorrow is placed here by their comrades, the officers of the late 61st regiment N.I.”

Ensign Herbert Durnford – wounded at Jullundur, 7th June. died at Loodianah – 8th August 1857
Son of J.C. Durnford, of Kensington, London.
Aged 19. Grave at Ludhiana Cemetery – “To the memory of Herbert Durnford Esqr. 61st Bengal Native Infantry who died at Loodianah on the 8th August 1857 from the effects of wounds received at Jullundur on the 7th of June in defending the bell of arms of his company from the mutineers.”

62nd Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant George Septimus Bradford – died at Allahabad – 18th September 1858
Memorial at St. Peter & Paul Church, Tonbridge, Kent – “Sacred to the memory of George Septimus Bradford, Lieut. 62nd Bengal Infantry, youngest son of Major-General Bradford, C.B. Born 27th August 1832. Died 18th September 1858 at Allahabad during the Mutiny in India.”

Captain Robert B.P. Byng – killed in action at Lucknow – 18th December 1857
Brother of Viscount Torrington.

Captain Fletcher F.C. Hayes – murdered by mutineers near Bhowgong – 1st June 1857
Aged 39. Murdered by men of 2nd Regt Oude Irregular Cavalry, whom he had taken command of a few days earlier. He was serving as Military Secretary and Political Assistant to Chief Commissioner in Oude.

Ensign Charles Way – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857

63rd Bengal Native Infantry

Ensign Robert Loveday Inglis – wounded at Lucknow – died of fever caused by wounds – 27th December 1857. Wounded twice. Son of the late Captain Inglis, 11th Light Cavalry.

64th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant George Snell – murdered by mutineers at Seetapore – 3rd June 1857
Aged 36. Son of Rev. Thomas Snell, of Surrey. Joined the Bengal Army in 1844. Serving with 10th Oude Irregular Infantry. Husband of Helen Davies, of Cheltenham. (she died with their 2 year old daughter in the massacre.)
Tablet in St. Mary Magdalene’s Church, Lahore Cantonment – “To the memory of Helen Johnson Snell aged 24 years, youngest daughter of the late S. Davies, MD of the HEICS who, with her husband Lieut. George Snell B.A., of the late 64th Bengal NI, aged 36 years, and their only child Georgina Helen, aged 2 years, fell a victim to the sepoy mutiny at Seetapore, in Oude, on the 3rd June 1857. this monument is erected by her brothers and sisters, to record their love and sorrow.”

65th Bengal Native Infantry

Brevet Major Francis Shirreff – murdered by mutineers at Moorar – 14th June 1857
Fourth son of David Shirreff, of Inverneshire. Commanding 4th Regt. Gwalior Contingent when killed.

Lieutenant Edward Speke – wounded at Delhi 14th September – died 18th September 1857
Attached to the 1st Bengal European Fusiliers. Aged 29. Son of William Speke, of Somerset. Joined the Bengal Army in 1850.
Memorial at St. Andrews Church, Dowlish Wake, Somerset – “Sacred to the memory of Lieutenant Edward Speke, of the 65th Regiment of Bengal Native Infantry, aged 29 years, third son of William Speke, Edqre of Jordans, in the parish of Ashill, who died on the 18th September 1857, from the  effects of a wound received on the 14th of the same month, when gallantly fighting in the ranks of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers, at the storming of Delhi. This tablet was erected by his brother officers of the 65th N.I. as a slight token of their esteem for one whose noble character and Christian virtues, had deservedly endeared him to them all.”

66th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant Thomas S. Gepp – wounded at Churpoorah – 10th February 1858. died of wounds.

67th Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant Philip Hawtry Comyn Burlton – murdered by mutineers at Muttra – 30th July 1857
Shot by his men while on treasure-escort. Son of Colonel William Burlton, CB, of Portland Place, formerly Commissary-General of the Bengal Army. Another son, Capt. Francis Moira Hastings Burlton, was killed with the 2nd Cavalry ? Contingent. (ref The Times 8-9-57)

Lieutenant Joseph Cudbert Longueville Clarke – 67th Bengal Native Infantry – murdered by mutineers at Bhyram Ghaut – 13th June 1857. Aged 28. Assistant-Commissary in Oude, serving with the 3rd Oude Irregulars.
Memorial at Harrow School – “Sacred to the memory of Joseph C. Longueville Clarke Lieut in the 67th Bengal Native Infantry & 2nd in Command of the 3rd Oude Infantry who was murdered by the mutineers during the Indian Revolt of 1857 at the age of 28 yrs.”

Lieutenant Philip H. Jackson – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

68th Bengal Native Infantry

Memorial in St. Paul’s Cathedral, Calcutta – “In memory of Captain Alexander Skene. Bt Major Robert Campbell Barclay. Captain Fiennes Sanderson Miller. Lieut James Augustus Dorin. Lieut Augustus Hay Alexander.
Lieut William Henry Lumsden. Ensign Richard Tucker of the 68th Regt Native Infantry, who died during the mutiny of the native troops and subsequent operations from 1857 to 1859; some on the field of battle; some by the hands of their own followers; others by disease; all doing their duty. This monument has been erected by their fellow officers.”

Captain Alexander Skene – murdered by mutineers at Jhansi – 8th June 1857
Serving as Superintendent of Jhansi and Jaloun. Fourth son of the late Charles Skene, of Aberdeen. His wife Beatrice and 2 infant daughters, Mary and Beatrice, were killed at the same time.

Lieutenant Augustus Hay Alexander – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857
Aged 30. Son of Lt-Col. Alexander, 5th Bengal Light Cavalry.

Lieutenant William Henry Lumsden – killed in action at Nujuffghur – 25th August 1857
Attached 1st Punjab Inf. Aged 26. Son of Colonel Thomas Lumsden, CB, (Bengal Artillery). Born at Muttra. Joined the Bengal Army in 1849. Served with the 1st Punjab Infantry.

Ensign Richard G. Tucker – murdered by mutineers at Bareilly – 31st May 1857

71st Bengal Native Infantry

Captain Wellwood George Maclean – killed in action at Chinut – 30th June 1857

Lieutenant Aldourie P. Grant – murdered by mutineers at Lucknow – 30th May 1857

72nd Bengal Native Infantry

Lieutenant Robert C. O’Dowda – murdered by mutineers at Augur – 4th July 1857
Attached to the Scindia Contingent.

Ensign Robert William Henderson – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Son of Revd. Robert Henderson, of Stirling. His brother, John was killed with the 56th B.N.I.

73rd Bengal Native Infantry

Ensign P. S. Codd – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 7th June 1857
Aged 18. Only son of Capt. J.M. Codd, 3rd Light Dragoons.

74th Bengal Native Infantry

Major Sir George Parker – died at Cawnpore – July 1857
Aged 44. Son of Captain Sir William Parker, Royal Navy. Joined the Bengal Army in 1831. Husband of Gertrude Elderton. Tablet in St. James’ Church, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of the undermentioned officers of the 74th Regiment N.I. who fell victims to the mutiny in 1857. Bt Major Sir G. Parker Bart. Killed in Sir H. Wheeler’s Entrenchment Cawnpore.”
Memorial at Meerut – “Sacred to the memory of Sir George Parker Bart. Captain, 74th Native Infantry, who died of sun stroke in the trenches at Cawnpore in the month of July 1857.”
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “To the glory of God and in memory of more than a thousand Christian people, who met their deaths hard by, between 6th June & 15th July 1857. These tablets are placed in this the
Memorial Church. All Souls Cawnpore by the Government N.W.P.
Staff. Major Genl. Sir H. Wheeler K.C.B. Lady Wheeler & daughters. Lieut G.R. Wheeler 1st N.I. A.D.C. Lieut Col. E. Wiggens 52nd N.I. D.J.A.G. Mrs Wiggens. Major W. Lindsay A.A.G. Mrs Lindsay & Daughters. Ensign G. and Mrs Lindsay. Brigadier General Jack C.B. Mr Jack. Capt Sir G. Parker 74th N.I. Cant. Magistr. Capt Williamson 71st N.I. D.A.C.G. Mrs Williamson & Child.”

Captain Francis Jacques Burgess – murdered by mutineers at Jhansi – 8th June 1857.
Tablet in St. James’ Church, Delhi – “Captain F.J. Burgess. Killed at Jhansi 8th June 1857.”

Captain Charles Gordon – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857.
Aged 40. Served in Scutari during the Crimean War. Killed at the Cashmere Gate.
Tablet in St. James’ Church, Delhi – “Captain C. Gordon. Killed at the Cashmere Gate Delhi 11th May 1857.”
Tablet in St. James’ Church, Delhi – “To the beloved memory of Captain Charles Gordon, of the 74th Bengal Native Infantry, who fell at the Cashmere Gate of Delhi, in the mutiny there, of 11th May 1857, aged 41 after 22 years service in the Indian army.”

Lieutenant H. R. Addington – murdered by mutineers while escaping from Delhi – 11th May 1857
Tablet in St. James’ Church, Delhi – “The Hon’ble H.R. Addington Killed at Delhi 11th May 1857.”

Lieutenant Henry Frith Hyslop – murdered by mutineers while escaping from Delhi – 13th May 1857
Aged 27. Son of Lieutenant-Colonel Archibald Hyslop (Madras Artillery). Joined the Bengal Army in 1849.
Tablet in St. James’ Church, Delhi – “Lieutenant H.F. Hyslop. Murdered near the Hindun while escaping from Delhi.”

Lieutenant George Henry Monck Mason – murdered by mutineers at Awah – 8th June 1857
Aged 33. Son of Captain Thomas Mason, Royal Navy, and Mary, of Co. Wicklow. Joined the Bengal Army in 1842. Killed by mutineers of the Jodhpur Legion.
Tablet in St. James’ Church, Delhi – “Captain G.H. Monck Mason. Political Agent Joudpore. Killed in Rajpootana.”

Lieutenant Matthew Hugh Reveley – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857
Aged 27. Son of Algernon (Bengal Civil Service). Born in France. Joined the Bengal Army in 1847.
Tablet in St. James’ Church, Delhi – “Lieutenant M.H. Reveley. Killed at the Cashmere Gate Delhi 11th May 1857.”

Lieutenant James Digby Smith – murdered by mutineers at Delhi – 11th May 1857
Aged 26. Son of John Smith, late a Calcutta merchant, of Lindenown Station, Gipp’s Land, Victoria. Born in Calcutta. Joined the Bengal Army in 1847.
Tablet in St. James’ Church, Delhi – “Lieutenant J.D. Smith. Killed at the Cashmere Gate Delhi 11th May 1857.”

Ensign Thomas Lane Bayliff – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 6th June 1857
Youngest son of Revd. Thomas T.L. Bayliff, vicar of Albury, Herts.

Ensign A. M. H. Cheek – wounded at Allahabad – 6th June 1857. died of wounds 17th June 1857

Ensign Edward Morris Smith – murdered by mutineers at Allahabad – 6th June 1857
Aged 18. Fifth son of Noel Thomas Smith, of Spiddall, Galway.

Indian Mutiny 1857 – 9

1st Bengal Light Cavalry

Major Alfred Harris – murdered by mutineers at Mhow – 1st July 1857.
Aged 42. A ward of the Earl of Essex. Husband of Elizabeth Darling. Joined the Bengal Army in 1832.

2nd Bengal Light Cavalry
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “To the glory of God and in memory of more than a thousand Christian people, who met their deaths hard by, between 6th June & 15th July 1857. These tablets are placed in this the
Memorial Church. All Souls Cawnpore by the Government N.W.P.
2nd Light Cavalry – Major E. Vibart. Capt E.J. Seppings, Wife and Children. Capt R.U. & Mrs Jenkins. Lieut R.O. Quin. Lieut C.W. Quin. Lieut J.H. Harrison. Lieut W.J. Manderson. Lieut F.S.M Wren. Lieut M.G. Daniell. Lieut M. Balfour. Cornet W.A. Stirling. Surgn. W.R. & Mrs Boyes. Vety. Surgn. E.G. Chalwin & Wife. Ridg. Mr. D. Walsh, Wife & Children. Sergt. Major H. Cladwell. Qr. Mr. Sergt. F. & Mrs Tress. Cornet C. Mainwaring 6th L.C. Lieut A.J. Boulton, 7th L.C.”

Major Edward Vibart – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857?
Aged 49. Son of James Vibart, of Taunton. Husband of Emily Coles, (she was murdered in the massacre at Cawnpore along with 4 of their children).
Grave at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “In three graves within this enclosure lie the remains of Major Edward Vibart, 2nd Bengal Light Cavalry, and about seventy officers and soldiers who, after escaping from the massacre at Cawnpore on the 27th June 1857 were captured by the rebels at Sheorajpoor, and murdered on the 1st July.  These remains were originally interred within the compound of Sivada House and were removed to this place in April 1861.”

Captain Robert Urqhart Jenkins – died of wounds at Cawnpore – 29th June 1857
Son of R.C. Jenkins, of Beachley, Gloucestershire.

Captain Edward James Seppings – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
His wife, Jessie, and their 3 infant sons were also murdered.

Lieutenant Melville Balfour – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant Murray George Daniell – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Aged 39. Third son of Capt. E.M. Daniell, HEICS, of Gloucester Square, Hyde Park, London.

Lieutenant John Hammond Harrison – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant William J. Manderson – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant Charles William Quinn – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant Richard Owen Quinn – died at Cawnpore – June 1857
Aged 28. Son of Captain Thomas Quinn (4th Light Cavalry) who died 7th Nov. 1857. Born at Meerut. Joined the Bengal Army in 1846.
Memorial on his father’s grave at Simla – “Also of his elder son Richard Owen Quin Lieutenant in the 2nd Bengal Cavalry who died of fever in the Entrenched Camp at Cawnpore June 1857 aged 28 years and 3 months. This tablet erected by the widow and mother of the above.”

Lieutenant Francis Stoneham Montagu Wren – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Memorial at Northam church, Devon – “To the memory of Delitia Montagu wife of Major Wren of Lenwood youngest daughter of Admiral Barton Of Burrough, Died 17th June 1836 Aged 42. Also of Henry Conway son of the above Died 12th Aug 1838 Aged 15. Also of Francis Stoneham Montagu, their youngest son Lieut. in the 2nd Regt Bengal Cavalry who fell at Cawnpore during the Indian Mutiny in June 1857 Aged 21.”

Veterinary Surgeon Edmund George Chalwin – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawpore – “Sacred to the memory of E.G. Chalwin 2nd Light Cavaly and his wife Louisa who both perished during the seige of Cawnpore in July 1857.”

Riding Master David Walsh – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857

3rd Bengal Light Cavalry

Captain Charles Ayshford Sanford – killed in action at Lucknow – 10th March 1858
Aged 28. Son of Edward Ayshford Sanford, of Ninehead Court, Somerset.

Lieutenant John Campbell Erskine McNabb – murdered by mutineers at Meerut – 10th May 1857
Aged 19. Fourth son of J.M. McNabb (fomerly Bengal Civil Service).

Veterinary-Surgeon Charles John Dawson – murdered by mutineers at Meerut – 10th May 1857
Grave at Meerut – “This tablet was erected by Colonel G. Carmichael Smyth, 3rd Bengal Cavalry, to the memory of his friend Charles John Dawson, Veterinary Surgeon, Bengal Cavalry, and Eliza, his wife, both murdered at Meerut on 10th May 1857.”

Veterinary-Surgeon John Phillips – murdered by mutineers at Meerut – 10th May 1857
Fourth son of the late Capt. Joseph Phillips, 12th Lancers.
Grave at Meerut – “Sacred to the memory of John Phillips Veterinary-Surgeon 3rd Bengal Cavalry, murdered during the Mutiny on 10th May 1857. This tomb is erected by George Carmichael Smyth Colonel of the Regiment, in token of affection and regard.”

4th Bengal Light Cavalry

Lieutenant Charles John Hunt – killed in action at Mehidpore – 8th November 1857

5th Bengal Light Cavalry

Lieutenant Frederick Campbell Gostling – killed in action at Nuggeenah – 21st April 1858
Aged 25. Son of W.F. Gostling, of Palace Gardens, London. Serving with the Multanee Horse.

6th Bengal Light Cavalry

Cornet Charles Mainwaring – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “To the glory of God and in memory of more than a thousand Christian people, who met their deaths hard by, between 6th June & 15th July 1857. These tablets are placed in this the
Memorial Church. All Souls Cawnpore by the Government N.W.P.
2nd Light Cavalry – Major E. Vibart. Capt E.J. Seppings, Wife and Children. Capt R.U. & Mrs Jenkins. Lieut R.O. Quin. Lieut C.W. Quin. Lieut J.H. Harrison. Lieut W.J. Manderson. Lieut F.S.M Wren. Lieut M.G. Daniell. Lieut M. Balfour. Cornet W.A. Stirling. Surgn. W.R. & Mrs Boyes. Vety. Surgn. E.G. Chalwin & Wife. Ridg. Mr. D. Walsh, Wife & Children. Sergt. Major H. Cladwell. Qr. Mr. Sergt. F. & Mrs Tress. Cornet C. Mainwaring 6th L.C. Lieut A.J. Boulton, 7th L.C.”

Captain Francis Gore Willock – killed at Delhi – 21st August 1857.
Aged 28. Eldest son of Sir Henry Willock. Volunteered for service at Delhi; was attached to the Corps of Guides.
Grave at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Captain Francis Gore Willock 6th Bengal Light Cavalry eldest son of Sir Henry Williock, KLS who fell a gallant volunteer at Delhi on the 21st August 1857 in the 29th year of his age.”

7th Bengal Light Cavalry

Captain Charles Wilbraham Radcliffe – wounded at Lucknow – 1st October 1857. died of wounds
Aged 36. Son of Revd. Edmund S. Radcliffe, of Walton-le-Dale, Lancashire.

Captain Charles James Salmond – killed in action near Cawnpore – 6th December 1857
Memorial at St. Andrews Church, Dacre, Cumbria – “Sacred to the memory of Charles James Salmond, Captain 7th Bengal Cavalry, eldest son of James and Emma Isabella Salmond, of Waterfoot in this parish. Born at Nottingham 11th November 1833 of conspicuous gallantry and incessantly engaged during the Indian Mutiny of 1857, present at the Battles of Agra and Cawnpore and at the relief of Lucknow under Sir Colin Campbell, by whom he was on that occasion he was honourably mentioned. Five times previously wounded he fell at Cawnpore while acting as Aide de Camp to Sir James Hope Grant KCB on the night of the victory of the 6th December 1857. His sorrowing parents erect this memorial to their beloved gallant and affectionate son.”

Captain James Stevens Shepherd – killed in action at Lucknow – 26th July 1857
Aged 24. Killed in a sortie from Lucknow. Son of John Shepherd.

Captain John Staples – murdered by mutineers at Lucknow – 10th June 1857

Lieutenant Leonard Augustus Arthur – killed in action at Lucknow – 19th July 1857
Son of the late Lieut-General Sir George Arthur, formerly Governor of Bombay.

Lieutenant Augustus Boulton – murdered by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “To the glory of God and in memory of more than a thousand Christian people, who met their deaths hard by, between 6th June & 15th July 1857. These tablets are placed in this the
Memorial Church. All Souls Cawnpore by the Government N.W.P.
2nd Light Cavalry – Major E. Vibart. Capt E.J. Seppings, Wife and Children. Capt R.U. & Mrs Jenkins. Lieut R.O. Quin. Lieut C.W. Quin. Lieut J.H. Harrison. Lieut W.J. Manderson. Lieut F.S.M Wren. Lieut M.G. Daniell. Lieut M. Balfour. Cornet W.A. Stirling. Surgn. W.R. & Mrs Boyes. Vety. Surgn. E.G. Chalwin & Wife. Ridg. Mr. D. Walsh, Wife & Children. Sergt. Major H. Cladwell. Qr. Mr. Sergt. F. & Mrs Tress. Cornet C. Mainwaring 6th L.C. Lieut A.J. Boulton, 7th L.C.”

Lieutenant Norman Alexander Martin – murdered by mutineers at Lucknow – 10th June 1857
Aged 19. Son of J.R. Martin, of Grosvenor Street, London.

Cornet W.F.K. Raleigh – murdered by mutineers at Lucknow – 30th May 1857

Veterinary-Surgeon Forbes A. Hely – wounded at Lucknow – died of wounds

Riding Master James Eldridge – murdered by mutineers at Lucknow – 15th June 1857

8th Bengal Light Cavalry

Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Tudor Tucker – murdered by mutineers at Futtehgur – 8th July 1857
Aged 40. Son of Thomas (Rear Admiral, Royal Navy) and Anne Tucker, of Tenby. Husband of Louisa (she was murdered with her 4 children in the massacre at Cawnpore).

10th Bengal Light Cavalry

Veterinary Surgeon Vincent Nelson – murdered by mutineers at Ferozepore – 19th August 1857
Aged 43. Born in London. Joined the Bengal Army in 1851.
Grave at Ferozepore – “Sacred to the memory of Vincent Nelson Esq. Vetry Surgn late 10th B.L. Cavalry killed at the mutiny of that Regiment August 19th 1857. Erected by his brother.”

Indian Mutiny 1857 – 9

ROYAL ARTILLERY :

Captain Whaley Nicoll Hardy – killed in action at Lucknow – 18th November 1857
Son of the late Colonel Edmund Hardy, Bombay Artillery.

Captain Headly (?) – killed in action at Lucknow – 25th September 1857

Captain E.A. D’Oyly – wounded by grape shot at Sassiah, died 23rd July 1857

Lieutenant Richard Moresby – killed in action at Chandaree – 11th March 1858
2/13th Battery.

ROYAL ENGINEERS :

Captain Augustus Jonathan Clerke – killed in action at Lucknow – 17th March 1857
23 Company.

Captain Glastonbury Neville – killed in action at Barodia – 31st January 1858
21 Company.

MILITARY TRAIN :

Captain Henry Mason – killed in action at Kheri – 7th October 1858

Lieutenant William Henry Dawson – killed in action at Chowbeejpore – 20th May 1858
2nd Battalion, Military Train.

NAVAL BRIGADE :

Captain Sir William Peel, KCB. – wounded at the Martiniere, 9th March 1858. died of smallpox at Cawnpore, 27th April 1858. HMS Shannon.

Mate Henry Garvey – killed in action at Lucknow – 11th March 1858. HMS Shannon.

Acting 2nd Mate John Fowler – killed in action at Amorrah – 5th March 1858. HMS Pearl.

Midshipman Martin A. Daniel – killed in action at Lucknow – 16th November 1857. HMS Shannon.

Captain of Maintop Francis Cassidy – killed in action at Lucknow – 14th November 1857

Indian Mutiny 1857 – 9

BRITISH INFANTRY REGIMENTS :

1/5th Foot – Northumberland Fusiliers

Major James Egbert Simmons – Killed in action at Lucknow – 29th September 1857
Memorial at St. James Church, Churchill, Avon – “James Egbert T. Simmons, Major 5th Fusiiliers. Killed at Lucknow 5 Sept. 1857. Aged 41.”

Captain Arthur England Johnson – wounded at Lucknow 25th September 1857. died 5th October 1857

Captain Ferdinand William L’Estrange – wounded at Lucknow 26th September 1857. died of wounds 30th October. Aged 31. Son of T.F. L’Estrange, of Lynn, Co. Westmeath.

Lieutenant William Marcon Carter – wounded at Lucknow 29th September 1857. died 18th October 1857
From Northwold, Norfolk.

Lieutenant Edwin Fell Haig – Killed in action at Lucknow – 23rd September 1857

1/8th Foot – King’s Liverpool Regiment

Lieutenant William Hext Mountsteven – Killed in action at Delhi – 9th July 1857
Aged 19. Son of Lieut-Colonel William Mountsteven (late-79th Highlanders).
Memorial at St. Petrocs Church, Dartmouth, Devon – “To the glory of God and in memory of William Mountsteven Ensign 8th The King’s Regt killed in action before Delhi 9th July 1857.”

Lieutenant William Waldegrave Pogson – wounded at Delhi 14th September 1857 – leg amputated died 17th September 1857
Aged 30. Joined the army in 1846. Son of the late Colonel Pogson, of Risgram House, Suffolk.

Lieutenant F.M. Vincent (?) – Killed in action at Cawnpore – 7th December 1857

Lieutenant Robert Webb – wounded at Delhi – 14th September 1857. died 15th September 1857

1/10th Foot – Lincolnshire Regiment

Captain Henry Jones Erskine – wounded at Arrah – 30th July 1857. died of wounds

Captain Charles Dunbar – killed in action at Arrah – 30th July 1857

1/13th Foot – Somerset Light Infantry

Captain Wilson Henry Jones – killed in action at Azimghur – 6th April 1858
Aged 27. Son of Wilson Jones, of Hartsheath, Flintshire.

Captain William Robert Moorsom – killed in action at Lucknow – 11th March 1858
Aged 23. Quartermaster-General of Division. Son of Capt. Moorsom, of Rochester.

1/24th Foot – South Wales Borderers

Captain Thomas Maling Greensill – accidentally killed at Delhi – 20th July 1857
Aged 29. Son of John and Eliza, of Co. Waterford.

Captain Francis Spring – killed in action at Jhelum – 7th July 1857
Aged 36. Son of Lieut-Colonel William Spring (57th Foot). Joined the army in 1840. Husband of Sara Day.
Buried at Jhelum Cemetery – “Sacred to the memory of Capt. Francis Spring H.M.’s 24th Regt. who died of a wound recd. in action at Jhelum against the mutineers of the 14th N.I. on the 7th July 1857 in the 36th year of his age. Deeply and sincerely regretted by his afflicted widow, brother officers and others who knew him.”

32nd Foot – Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry

Memorial in All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “In memory of the following Officers of the Thirty-second Cornwall Regiment Light Infantry who with Four Hundred and Forty Eight Non Commissioned Officers and Private Soldiers were killed or died in the discharge of their duty during the …. of Lucknow and Cawnpore, and the subsequent Campaign against the Mutineers in the year of our lord 1857. Colonel C.A.F.H. Berkeley, C.B.  Lieut Colonel W. Case. Captains, C. Stevens, J. Moore, J.W. Mansfield, W. Power, B.M. Cabe, Lieuts. E. de L. Joly, J.D. Thomson, F. Wainwright, P.C. Webb, J. Brackenbury, E.C. Hill, W.H. Studdy J.W. Charlton. Also in memory of Mrs Moore, Mrs Wainwright, Miss Wainwright, Mrs Hill, 43 Soldiers Wives and 55 Children of the same Regiment Murdered at Cawnpore in June of the same fatal year. The monument is erected by friends and comrades in token of affection and sorrow.”

Memorial at the Residency, Lucknow – “To commemorate the gallant part taken by H.M. 32nd Foot in the herioc defence of The Residency in 1857 also to the memory of the Officers, Non-commissioned officers, men, women and children of the Regiment who perished here and at Cawnpore.”

Major William Case – killed in action at Chinut – 30th June 1857

Captain Edmond De le Jolly – wounded 26th September 1857. died 29th September 1857

Captain Bernard McCabe – wounded 26th September 1857. died 1st October 1857

Captain James Mansfield – wounded 13th September 1857. died same day.

Captain John Moore – murdered in the Cawnpore Massacre – 27th June 1857

Captain William Power – died of wounds 10th August 1857
Only son of George Power, of Cheltenham.

Captain Charles Steevens – killed in action at Chinut – 30th June 1857
Aged 39. Brother of Lieutenant-Colonel George Steevens, 20th Foot.
Memorial in St. Mary’s Church, Cheltenham – “Also of Captain Charles Steevens, HM 32nd Regiment (brother of the above) who was killed in a sortie against the mutineers at Lucknow, Bengal  June 30th 1857, aged 39.”

Lieutenant Joseph Brackenbury – killed in action at Chinut – 30th June 1857
Aged 25. Son of Revd. Joseph Brackenbury, Chaplain of the Magdelen Hospital.

Lieutenant Evelyn Charles Hill – murdered in the Cawnpore Massacre – 27th June 1857
Son of George Hill, late of Calcutta.

Lieutenant William Humphrey Studdy – died of wounds – 9th August 1857
Aged 19. Son of Major J.B. Studdy, late Bengal Cavalry.

Lieutenant James Dugald Thomson – killed in action at Chinut – 30th June 1857
Son of Lt-General Alexander Thomson, CB, of Salruck, Co. Galway.

Lieutenant Frederick Wainwright – murdered in the Cawnpore Massacre – 27th June 1857

Lieutenant Pelham Caryer Webb – killed in action – 26th September 1857
Aged 26. Son of George Webb, of Leicester.

34th Foot – 1st Border Regiment

Memorial in All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “Sacred to the memory of Lieutenant Edward Jordan killed in action. Ensign Theophilus G.B. Applegate died of wounds. Ensign Lyndon J. Grier. Cr. Sergeant Charles Feddon. Sergeant Patrick Jones. Corporal James Stock. Corporal William Clarke. One drummer and Twenty Four Privates all of Her Majesty’s XXXIV or Cumberland Regiment who were killed in action or died of wounds received at Cawnpore on the 28th November 1857. This tablet is erected by the officers of the Regiment to mark their esteem and regard for their late youthful and gallant brother officers and to record the sincere sorrow expressed by all ranks at thier early deaths also as a tribute of respect and admiration to the bravery and devotion of their late Comrades, the Non Commissioned Officers Drummers and Private soldiers who fell upon the same occasion.”

Lieutenant Edward Jordan – killed in action at Cawnpore – 28th November 1857
Aged 21. Son of Revd. Gibbes Walker Jordan, of Waterstock, Oxon.

Ensign Theodore G. Applegate – wounded at Cawnpore, 28th November 1857. died of wounds

Ensign Arthur Gilley – died of accidental wounds – 18th October 1857

Ensign Lyndon John Grier – wounded at Cawnpore 28th November 1857. Died 29th November
Aged 19. Son of Revd. John W. Grier, of Amblecote, Stourbridge.

Ensign Henry Lampden – wounded at Cawnpore, 28th November 1857. died of wounds

35th Foot – 1st Royal Sussex Regiment

Captain Arthur J. Le Grand – killed in action at Judgispore – 23rd April 1858

Lieutenant William Glynne Massey – killed in action at Judgispore – 23rd April 1858

Assistant-Surgeon William George Clarke – killed in action at Judgispore – 23rd April 1858
Born 4th February 1828 at Ballymena, Co. Antrim.

37th Foot – 1st Royal Hampshire Regiment

Captain Louis Henry Bedford – killed in action at Azimghur – 15th April 1858
Aged 38.

Lieutenant George Bagenall – killed in action at Arrah – 30th July 1857

Lieutenant Edward Birkett – killed in action at Arrah – 30th July 1857
Aged 21. Son of the late Revd. James Birkett, Ovingham, Northumberland.

Ensign Edwin Stephen Sale – killed in action at Arrah – 30th July 1857
Son of John S. Sale, of Rugby.

42nd Foot – 1st Royal Highland Regiment

Captain William Lawson – died of wounds – 19th August 1858

Lieutenant Alfred Jennings Bramly – killed in action at Rooya – 15th April 1858
Aged 22. Son of Revd. Thomas Jennings Bramly, of Tunbridge Wells, Kent.

Lieutenant Charles Douglas – wounded at Rooya, 15th April 1858. died of wounds 17th April 1858

52nd Foot – 2nd Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Light Infantry

Lieutenant James Hill Bradshaw – killed in action at Delhi – 14th September 1857
Aged 20.

Lieutenant Thomas Robinson Gibbons – killed in action at Cawnpore – 28th November 1857
Aged 26. Served in Burma (1852).

Captain William Robert Moorsom – killed in action at Lucknow – 11th March 1858
Aged 23. Son of Captain William Moorsom (late-52nd Foot). Joined the army in 1852.
Memorial at Harrow School, Harrow – “In loving memory of William Robert Moorsom, Harrow School 1847-51, 52nd Light Infantry 1852-8 on Staff of the Armies Havelock & Outram during the Indian Mutiny. He was twice wounded, 12 times mentioned in despatches, thanked by the Government of India & promoted to Capt. on 5 May 1858 six days later giving his life for his Queen at the capture of Lucknow in his 24 year.”

53rd Foot – 1st King’s Shropshire Light Infantry

Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Powell, CB – killed in action at Kujwa – 1st November 1857

Lieutenant Frederick Brockhurst – shot in abdomen at Meangunge 23rd February 1858. died of wounds 13th April 1858. Aged 25. Son of Revd. J. Sumner Brockhurst, of Sandown, Isle of Wight.

1/60th Foot – 1st King’s Royal Rifle Corps

Captain Francis Andrews – killed in action at Ghazee-od-deen Nuggur – 30th May 1857
Memorial at Meerut – “Erected by the 60th Rifles in memory of Captain F. Andrews ….  who were killed near this spot in action with the mutineers of the Bengal Army on the 30th and 31st May 1857.”

Ensign William Henry Napier – wounded at Ghazee-od-deen Nuggur, 30th May 1857. died of wounds at Meerut, 4th June
Aged 21. Son of Major-General Johnstone Napier (Madras Army). Born in Paris. Joined the army in 1855.
Memorial at Meerut – “Erected by the 60th Rifles in memory of …. also of Ensign W.H. Napier, who was wounded on the 31st May and died at Meerut on the 4th June 1857.”

Ensign Everard Aloysius Lisle Phillips, VC – killed in action at Bank House, Delhi – 16th September 1857 Aged 22. Son of Ambrose Phillips, of Leicestershire. Joined the Bengal Army in 1854. Won the VC for actions during the siege of Delhi.
Buried at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – “E.A.L. Phillips Esqr. Ens. H.M. 60th Rifles killed at the siege of Delhi. 17th Sept. 1857, aged 21 yrs. R.I.P. erected by his brother officer H. Le C.M.”

61st Foot – South Gloucestershire Regiment

Lieutenant Thomas Gabett – killed in action at Nujuffghur – 25th August 1857
Aged 27. Son of John, of Co. Clare. Served in the Punjab (1848).
Memorial at Delhi – “Sacred to the memory of Captain W. A. Dely H.M. 61st regt. died of cholera Oct. 1st 1857 aged 47 years. Lt. T. Gabbett H.M. 61st regt. killed in action at Nujuffgurh August 26th 1857 aged 27 years Lt. G. S. Tyler H.M. 61st regt. died of cholera in camp before Delhi Sept. 5th 1857 aged 31 years Lt. S.B. Elkington H.M. 61st regt mortally wounded in action at Nujuffgurh and died Sept. 1857 aged 21 years, sincerely regretted by their brother officers by whom this tablet is erected.”

Ensign Samuel Bucknall Elkington – wounded at Nujuffghur, 25th August 1857. died 7th September 1857 Aged 20. Memorial above. Son of Dr. Elkington, of Birmingham.

64th Foot – 1st North Staffordshire Regiment

Lieutenant-Colonel Nicholas Wilson – killed in action at Cawnpore – 28th November 1857
Aged 62. Born 31 March 1795, at Sledagh, Co. Wexford, Ireland. Husband of Anne Holcombe. Served as a Brigadier General.

Major Thomas Stirling – killed in action at Cawnpore – 28th November 1857

Captain Richard Charles McCrae – killed in action at Cawnpore – 28th November 1857

Captain William Fletcher Morphy – killed in action at Cawnpore – 28th November 1857
Aged 32. Son of late Captain James Morphy, 70th Foot.

Lieutenant Rowland Bateman – killed in action at Lucknow – 25th September 1857

Lieutenant A. McKinnon – killed in action at Cawnpore – 28th November 1857

71st Foot – 1st Highland Light Infantry

Lieutenant Wyndham Neave – killed in action at Morar – 16th June 1858
Grave at the Christian Cemetery, Gwalior – “Sacred to the memory of Lieutenant Wyndham Neave 71st Highland Light Infantry who was killed in action at Moror Gwalior on 16th June 1858 Aged 23 years and 7 months. This monument is erected by his brother officers.”

75th Foot – 1st Gordon Highlanders

Captain Alexander Chancellor – wounded Delhi, 13th September 1857. Died Kasauli – 4th October 1857
Aged 30. Son of Alexander, of Lanark.
Buried at No.4 Cemetery, Kasauli – “Sacred to the memory of Alexander Chancellor Esqr. late Captain in Her Majesty’s 75th Regiment, fourth son of the late Alexr. Chancellor Esqr. of Shuldhill Lanarkshire. Born 29th March 1857. This brave and devoted soldier departed this life at Kussowlee on the fourth day of October 1857. He died from wounds received in action before Delhi, against the Mutineers of India on the 13th Sept. 1857, the night previous to the successful assault by the victorious British Forces. His life was exposed to danger and hardship trial and privation cheerfully endured in a good cause from the 8th June 1857 when the memorable battle of Budle-ki-serai was fought and won to the day of his death.”

Captain Edward William Knox – killed in action at Delhi – 12th June 1857
Aged 37. Son of John and Maria, of Co. Mayo. Joined the Army in 1839. Husband of Charlotte Gardiner. Ref. The Times 28-8-57: ‘before Delhi, while gallantly leading his picket to repel the assault of the rebel army on The Tower Battery, he was shot through the head.’

Captain McDonald – killed in action – 11th March 1858

Lieutenant Edward Villiers Briscoe – killed in action at Delhi – 18th September 1857
Third son of the late Capt. Henry Briscoe, RE.

Lieutenant William Crozier – killed in action at Delhi – 18th July 1857

Lieutenant George Charles Norris Faithfull – wounded at Delhi 14th July 1857. died of wounds at Ambala – 31st October 1857
Buried at Ambala Cemetery – “Sacred to the memory of Lieut. G.C.N. Faithfull H.M.s 75th Regiment. A soldier zealous and true counting his life as nothing so he but discharged his duty to his Country. He died at Umballa Oct. 31st 1857. Aged 26.”

Lieutenant John Richard Sherlock Fitzgerald – killed in action at Delhi – 14th September 1857
Aged 29.

Lieutenant Alfred Harrison – killed in action at Badli-ke-Serai – 8th June 1857
Aged 27.

78th Foot – 2nd Seaforth Highlanders

Captain Robert Bogle – wounded at Lucknow, 26th September 1857. died 19th November 1857

Captain John Fowden Haliburton – wounded at Lucknow, 4th October 1857. died 5th October 1857

Lieutenant Montagu Alexander Kirby – died of wounds – 25th September 1857

Lieutenant John Swanson – wounded at Lucknow, 25th September 1857. died 2nd October 1857
Aged 22. Son of Colonel Swanson, Bombay Army.

Lieutenant Joseph Webster – killed in action at Lucknow – 25th September 1857

81st Foot – 2nd The Loyal Regiment

Lieutenant Rothes Hastings Neville – murdered at Pak-Pulton, on the Sutlej – 5th October 1857
Aged 25. He was on his way to Bombay to be married when he was killed by mutineers.

82nd Foot – 2nd South Lancashire Regiment

Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “Sacred to the memory of Captain John Gordon. Lieut. Arthur Platt Hensley H.M. 82nd Regt. who fell in the defence of Cawnpore in November 1857 also of Ensign William Temple Thompson H.M. 82nd Regt. who was killed at the second relief of Lucknow on the 18th November 1857. This tablet is erected by their brother officers.”

Captain John Gordon – died of wounds at Cawnpore – 8th January 1858
Aged 27. Son of Capt. Robert Gordon, late 45th Foot.
Memorial in Farnham Parish Church – “Capt. John Gordon 82nd Regiment wounded 28 Nov. 1857 at Cawnpore died of his wound 08 Jan. 58 born at Ashridge House, Aldershot, on 14th March 1830.”

Lieutenant Cecil J. East – killed in action at Cawnpore – 26th November 1857

Lieutenant Arthur Platt Hensley – killed in action at Cawnpore – 29th November 1857

Ensign William Temple Thompson – killed in action at Lucknow – 18th November 1857
Aged 21. Son of J. Thompson, Sherwood Hall, Notts.

83rd Foot – 1st Royal Ulster Rifles

Captain Samuel Read – killed in action at Jeerum – 23rd October 1857

84th Foot – 2nd York & Lancaster Regiment

Memorial at the Residency, Lucknow – “To the memory of Lieut. Col. C. Seymour. Capt. E. Currie. Capt. R. Pakenham. Lieut. B. Sandwith. Lieut. F. Saunders. Lieut. H. Ayton. Lieut. P. Chute. Lieut. A. Gibaut. Lieut. W. Poole. Lieut. R. Maybury. Ensign H. Kenny. Paymaster G. Eddy. Qr.Master H. Donelan of the 84th York and Lancaster Regiment who were killed, died of their wounds, or of disease during the Indian Mutiny campaign nobly performing their duty. To behold the devotion, gallantry and true discipline displayed by the above at all times and on all occasions this monument is erected by the officers of the Regt.”

Captain Eugene Currie – died of wounds at Cawnpore –
Son of Claude Currie, Physician-General, Madras. His brother, Lt. Richard Currie, Bengal Artillery also died in the Mutiny.

Captain Robert Maxwell Packenham – killed in action at Lucknow – 25th September 1857
Aged 22. Fourth son the late Lieut-General Sir Hercules Packenham. His older brother, Lt-Col. Edward, Coldstream Guards, was killed at Inkermann in the Crimean War.

Lieutenant H.A.W. Ayton – wounded at Lucknow, 16th November 1857. died of wounds 29th November 1857. Son of Surgeon Robert Ayton, late 34th Foot. Lost his arm when wounded.

Lieutenant J.J. Nunn (?) – killed in action at Lucknow – 29th September 1857

Lieutenant William Poole – wounded at Lucknow, 25th September 1857. died of wounds

Lieutenant Benjamin Sandwith – killed in action – 22nd November 1857

Lieutenant Frederick John Saunders – murdered in the Cawnpore Massacre – 27th June 1857
Aged 31. Son of Lt-Col. R. Saunders. Ref. The Times (11-11-57) ‘when brought before that miscreant the Raja Nana Sahib, he pulled out his revolver, shot dead 5 of the guard and missed the Raja with the 6th round.’

86th Foot – 2nd Royal Irish Regiment

Surgeon Thomas Stack – killed in action at Jhansi – 3rd April 1858
Born 19th September 1818. MD at Glasgow, 1843. (Obituary Fermanagh Times 28 August 1902) – “Dr. Stack of the 86th Regiment referred to above as having been killed, was the brother of the present day Bishop of Clogher. He was the surgeon of the regiment, a man of great height, powerful physique and a brave soldier.”

87th Foot – 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers

Lieutenant John Wall – killed in action at Lucknow – 14th March 1858

88th Foot – 1st Connaught Rangers

Captain Henry Hooper Day – killed in action at Cawnpore – 26th November 1857
Ref. The Times: ‘He was previously wounded in the arm, but refused to retire and continued gallantly leading his men, when he fell shot through the head.’ Son of D.J. Day, of Rochester.
Memorial at Memorial Church at Cawnpore – “In memory of the Undermentioned officers of the Connaught Rangers. Capt. H.H. Day, killed in action at Pandoo Nuddee, 26 Novr, 1857, aged 20 years.”

Captain John Evans – wounded at Cawnpore – 27th November 1857. died of wounds 5th October 1861
Memorial at Chagford church, Devonshire – “Dedicated to the memory of Captain John Evans late 88th Regiment Connaught Rangers, in which regiment he served in the Crimea during the war with Russia, and was present at the seige of Sebastopol attack on the quarries 7th June and Redan 18th June, 1855 and although badly wounded in the trenches 8th August, he continued with his regiment to India as adjutant, and was severely wounded in action with the mutineers of the Indian Army at Cawnople on the 27th November, 1857, from the effect of which he died at Babbicombe on the 5th October, 1861 at the early age of 23 years and was buried in the churchyard of the parish of St. Mary church in this county. This monument is erected as a tribute of affectionate regret to his memory by his maternal grand uncle E.S. Baily, Esq. of Whiddon Park, in this parish.”

Ensign Fitzgerald Massy Mitchell – wounded at Cawnpore, 26th November 1857. died of wounds 7th December 1857
Memorial at Memorial Church at Cawnpore – “In memory of the Undermentioned officers of the Connaught Rangers… Ensign F.M. Mitchell, died at Cawapore, 7 Decr, 1857, of wounds received in action at Pandoo Nuddee, 26 Novr, aged 36 yrs.”

90th Foot – 2nd Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)

Memorial at the Residency, Lucknow – “Erected by the officers of H.M. 90 Light Infantry in memory of their comrades who fell during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 & 1858 and as a tribute to their gallantry. Colonel Robert P. Campbell C.B. died of his wounds at Lucknow 12th November 1857. Major Roger Barnston died of his wounds at Cawnpore 23rd December 1857. Brevet Major James Perrin died of his wounds at Alumbagh 30th September 1857.
Captain Harry Denison died of his wounds at Lucknow 29th October 1857. Lieutenant Nicol Graham killed in action at Alumbagh 23rd Sept 1857. Lieutenant John Joshua Nunn killed in action at Alumbagh 24th Sept 1857. Lieutenant Arthur Moultrie killed in action at Lucknow 26th September 1857. Lieutenant W H L Carleton died of small pox at Lucknow 10th April 1858. Lieutenant R G Synce died of consumption at Lucknow 8th September 1858. Lieutenant N Preston died of his wounds at Alumbagh 27th September 1857. Ensign Arthur Chute died of dyssentry at Calcutta 23rd February 1858. Ensign Hugh Gordon died of coup de soleil at Lucknow 28th May 1858. Assistant Surgeon R Nelson died of fever 18th August 1857. Also to the memory of 271 non-commissioned officers and privates of the Regiment who fell in the gallant performance of their duty at the Relief the Defence and the Capture of Lucknow and during the subsequent campaign in Oudh.”

Lieutenant-Colonel Robert Parker Campbell – wounded at Lucknow, 26 August 1857. died of wounds

Major Roger Barnston, CB – wounded at Shah Najaf, 16 November 1857. died of wounds 23 December
Aged 31. Son of the late Roger Harry Barnston, of Crewe Hall, Chester.
Memorial on Chester Road, north of Farndon, Cheshire – “Erected in memory of Roger Barnston Esq’re of Crew Hill, Major and Brevet Lieu’t Colonel of Her Majesty’s 90th Light Infantry, CB and Knight of the Legion of Honor and of the Order of the Madjidie; By his tenants and friends. He served in the Crimean War from the 5th December 1854; and was present at the siege and fall of Sebastopol; and also in the Indian Mutiny Campaign in 1857 in which he received a severe wound whilst gallantly leading an assault at the relief of Lucknow on the 16th November 1857, from the effects of which he died at Cawnpore on the 23rd December 1857, aged 31 years, and was interred in the Military Cemetery at that station.”

Captain Harry Dension – wounded at Lucknow, 6th October 1857. right arm amputated. died 29th October 1857.

Captain James Perrin – wounded at Lucknow, 27th September 1857. died of wounds

Lieutenant Nicol Grahame – killed in action at Lucknow – 23rd September 1857
Son of Major Duncan Grahame (6th Foot) and Mary Love, from Ardrossan, Ayrshire. Letters

Lieutenant Arthur Austen Moultrie – wounded at Lucknow – 25th September 1857. died 26th September.
Son of George A. Moultrie, of Aston Hall, Shrosphire.

Lieutenant John Joshua Nunn – killed in action at Lucknow – 24th September 1857

Lieutenant Moyes Preston – wounded at Lucknow, 25th September 1857. died of wounds
Aged 20. Son of Revd. W.M.S. Preston, of Warcop Hall, Westmorland. His brother, Capt. Henry Preston, 90th Foot was killed in the Crimean War.

93rd Foot – 2nd Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders

Lieutenant-Colonel Adrian Hope – killed in action at Rooya – 15th April 1858
(with Staff) Aged 37. Son of General John Hope, Earl of Hopetoun.

Captain James Dalzell – killed in action at Secundra Bagh – 16th November 1857

Captain J. Lumsden – killed in action at Lucknow – 17th November 1857

Captain Charles William McDonald – killed in the assault on Begum’s Palace – 11th March 1858
Aged 22. Son of Lt-General Sir John McDonald, KCB, of Dalchosnie, Pertshire.

Lieutenant Charles Warden Sergison – killed in the assault on Begum’s Palace – 11th March 1858
Aged 23. Son of Revd. W. Sergison, rector of Slaugham, Sussex.

Lieutenant H.C. Sterling – died of wounds – 12th December 1857

95th Foot – 2nd Sherwood Foresters

Captain Evelyn Bazalgette – killed in action at Kotah – 1st April 1858
Aged 22. Son of Colonel Bazalgette, of Regents Park, London. Served in the Crimea, wounded carrying the Colour at the Battle of the Alma. Killed when a magazine was exploded by mutineers. Ref. The Times 26-5-58: ‘His remains were borne to the grave by his companions in arms, covered by the regimental colour with which he had son nobly distinguished himself, and which still bears the marks of his blood, shed in his country’s cause.’

Lieutenant Alexander Fawcett – killed in action at Beejapore – 5th September 1858

97th Foot – 2nd Royal West Kent Regiment

Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Onslow Winnington Ingram – killed in action at Lucknow – 14th March 1858
Aged 41. Son of the late Revd. Edward Winnington Ingram, of Ribbesford, Worcestershire and canon of Worcester Cathedral.

Lieutenant Percy Charles Smyth – died of wounds – 4th March 1858
Aged 21. Son of the late Henry Mitchell Smyth, of Castle Widenham, Cork.

2nd Bn. Rifle Brigade

Major Charles John Woodford – killed in action at Cawnpore – 28th November 1857
Aged 34, son of General Sir Alexander Woodford.
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawpore – “Sacred to the memory of Major C.J. Woodford 2nd Batt Rifle Brigade
killed in action before Cawnpore Nov. 28th 1857. This stone was erected to his memory by his brother officers.”

Captain William Frederick Thynne – killed in action at Lucknow – 11th March 1858

Lieutenant Henry Alexander Scriven – killed in the storming of Nonadee – 20th October 1858

Ensign Lovick Emelius Cooper – wounded at Lucknow, 11th March 1858. died at Dilkoosha 19th March 1858 Aged 20. Son of Revd. Lovick Cooper, vicar of Epingham, Rutland.

Indian Mutiny 1857 – 9

BRITISH CAVALRY REGIMENTS :

2nd DRAGOON GUARDS (The Queen’s)

Major John Percy Smith – Killed in action at Nusseraspoie – 6th March 1858

6th DRAGOON GUARDS (Carabineers)

Captain George Wardlaw – Killed in action at Gungeree – 14th December 1857
Aged 28. Son of the late Lieut-General Wardlaw, 55th Foot.

Captain German Wheatcroft – Killed in action at Lucknow – 15th November 1857
(att. to the Military Train) Son of David Wheatcroft, of Wingfield Park, Derbyshire.
Memorial at Sedbergh School, Sedbergh, Cumbria – “To the memory of Captain German Wheatcroft of the Inniskilling Dragoons and the 6th Dragoon Guards who charged with the Heavy Brigade at Balaclava and, having offered his services during the Indian Mutiny, was killed at Lucknow on the 14th November 1857 while gallantly leading a squadron of the 9th Lancers.”

Lieutenant John Hudson – Killed in action at Gungeree – 14th December 1857
Aged 25. Son of George Hudson, M.P.

Lieutenant Sydney Vyse – Killed in action at Gungeree – 14th December 1857
Aged 23. Son of Richard Vyse, of Holly Lodge, Luton.

Assistant-Surgeon Stewart Moore – wounded at Hindun River – 31st May 1857. died 2nd June.
Aged 29. Born 11th November 1828 at Tyrone, Ireland. Served in the Crimea 1854 (medal and 3 bars) .
Grave at Meerut – “Sacred to the memory of Stewart Moore, Esq. Assistant-Surgeon H.M’s 6th Dragoon Guards (Carabineers), who died at Meerut. on the 2nd June 1857, of wounds received in action with the mutineers at Ghazi-ud-din Nagar, on the 31st May 1857, aged 26 year. This tomb was erected by his brother officers.”

7th HUSSARS (Queen’s Own)

Cornet William George Hawtrey Bankes – wounded at Musa Bagh, 19th March 1858. Right arm and leg amputated. Died 6th April 1858. Aged 21. Son of George Bankes.

8th HUSSARS (King’s Royal Irish)

Lieutenant John Reilly – Killed in action at Gwalior – 17th June 1858

9th LANCERS (The Queen’s Royal)

Captain Robert Abercromby Yule – Killed in action at Delhi – 19th June 1857.
Served Ghuzni 1839 (16th Light Dragoons – medal), Sutlej 1845 (medal and bar), 9th Lancers in 1847, Punjab 1848 (medal and 2 bars). Married Margaret Rodgers at Edinburgh, 9th November 1841.

Captain Lucius John French – Killed in action at Agra – 10th October 1857

Captain Thomas Hutchinson – wounded at Lucknow, 19th March 1858. Died 21st March.

14th LIGHT DRAGOONS (The King’s)

Lieutenant Leonard Redmayne – Killed in action at Mundisore – 23rd November 1857

Indian Mutiny 1857 – 9

STAFF OFFICERS

Major-General Nicholas Penny, CB – Killed in action at Kukerowlee – 30th April 1858. Aged 69. Son of Robert and Catherine Penny, of Weymouth, Dorset. Joined the Bengal Army in 1806. Husband of Louisa Gerard. Grave at Meerut – “Sacred to the memory of Major General N. Penny, CB. Commanding the Meerut Division. Born at Weymouth, Dorsetshire on the 12th March 1790, Killed at the head of his column in a skirmish with the enemy near the village of Kukerowlee, in Rolilcund, on the morning of the 30th April 1858 after a service of 51 years. His precious remains were brought to Meerut through the kind exertions of Captain E.J. Simpson Asst Commy Gen.”

Major-General Sir Hugh Wheeler – Killed by mutineers at Cawnpore – 27th June 1857
Memorial at All Souls Church, Cawnpore – “To the glory of God and in memory of more than a thousand Christian people, who met their deaths hard by, between 6th June & 15th July 1857. These tablets are placed in this the
Memorial Church. All Souls Cawnpore by the Government N.W.P.
Staff. Major Genl. Sir H. Wheeler K.C.B. Lady Wheeler & daughters. Lieut G.R. Wheeler 1st N.I. A.D.C. Lieut Col. E. Wiggens 52nd N.I. D.J.A.G. Mrs Wiggens. Major W. Lindsay A.A.G. Mrs Lindsay & Daughters. Ensign C. and Mrs Lindsay. Brigadier General Jack C.B. Mr Jack. Capt. Sir G. Parker 74th N.I. Cant. Magistr. Capt Williamson 71st N.I. D.A.C.G. Mrs Williamson & Child.”

Brigadier General Sir Henry Montgomery Lawrence, KCB. – wounded at Lucknow – 2nd July 1857. Died 4th July. Aged 51. Son of Lieutenant-Colonel Alexander Lawrence (77th Foot) and Catherine. Born in Matura, Ceylon, 28th June 1805. Joined the Bengal Artillery in 1821. Husband of Honoria Marshall.
Grave at the Residency, Lucknow – “Here lies Henry Lawrence who tried to do his duty. May the Lord have mercy on his soul. Born 28th June 1806 Died 4th July 1857.”
Tablet in Holy Trinity Church, Lawrence Military Assylum – “Sacred to the memory of Sir Henry Montgomery Lawrence, KCB. Brigadier General, Chief Commissioner in Oudh. He commanded the Garrison of Lucknow at the outbreak of the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857; was wounded by a shell on the 2nd and died on the 4th day of July 1857. Aged 52 years. This Institution which he originated, and to which he contributed 87,000 Rupees is his best monument.”
Memorial in St. Paul’s Cathedral, Calcutta – “In memory of the great and good Sir Henry Montgomery Lawrence K.C.B. Christian statesman, philanthropist and soldier who in the Punjab, Rajputana and Oudh taught how kindly subject races should be ruled who first in India, founded hill asylums for British soldiers children and who fell in the memorable defence of Lucknow 4th July 1857 beloved and mourned by natives and Europeans.”

Brigadier-General James George Smith Neil – Killed in action at Lucknow – 25th September 1857. Shot in the head at Khas Bazaar. 1st Madras Fusiliers.
Memorial at the Residency, Lucknow – “Sacred to the memory of Brigadier General J.G.S. Neill A.D.C. to the Queen. Col J.L. Stephenson c.o. Major S.G.C. Renaud Lieut. W.G. Groom. Lieut N.H. Arnold. Lieut A.A. Richardson. Lieut J.A. Chisholm Liuet F. Dobbs 352 non-commissioned officers, drummers and rank and file of the First Madras Fusiliers who fell during the supression of the rebellion in Bengal 1857-58.”

Brigadier-General John Nicholson – wounded at Delhi -14th September 1857. Died 23rd September. Aged 34. Son of Dr. Alexander Nicholson and Clara, of Dublin. Joined the Bengal Army in 1839. Served in the Punjab (1848). He was buried at the Cashmere Gate Cemetery, Delhi – “The grave of Brigadier General John Nicholson, who led the assault on Delhi; but fell in the hour of victory, mortally wounded, and died 23rd September 1857; aged 35.’

Brigadier Isaac Henley Handscombe – murdered by mutineers at Lucknow – 30th May 1857. Aged 52. Born in Buckingham. Son of Isaac and Anne Handscombe. Served in Burma War (1825), Ghuzni (1839), Kabul (1842), Sutlej War, Burma (1853). Tablet in St. Mary Magdalenes Church, Lahore Cantonment – ‘Sacred to the memory of Brigadier Isaac Handscombe, Bt. Major Robert Spencer and Sergeant Major John Potter who were barbarously murdered by the mutineers when nobly attempting to recall their men to their duty, the first fell at Lucknow on the 31st May and the two last at Meean Meer on the 30th July 1857.’

Brigadier-General Nicholas Wilson – Killed in action at Cawnpore – 28th November 1857. Aged 62. Born 31 March 1795, at Sledagh, Co. Wexford, Ireland. Husband of Anne Holcombe. Lieutenant-Colonel 64th Foot.

Colonel Charles Chester – Killed in action at Badli-ke-Serai – 8th June 1857. Aged 53. Son of Sir Robert Chester and Eliza. Born in Suffolk. Served in Burma (1825), Punjab (1848). Husband of Margaret Mundy. He was buried at Rajpura Cemetery, Delhi – ‘To the memory of Colonel Chester Adjutant General of the army, who fell mortally wounded at the battle of Badlee Suraie. This monument is erected by his brother officers of the General Staff in token of their affectionate regard and esteem. his remains were here interred on the 8th June 1857.’

Lieutenant-Colonel George Biddulph – Killed in action at Lucknow – 16th November 1857. Aged 46. Son of Rev. John and Sophia Biddulph, of Frankton, Warwickshire.

Brevet-Major W.P. Jenkins – Killed in action at Kuttunge – 14th November 1857

Captain Neville – Killed in action at Barodia – 31st January 1858

Lieutenant John Wall – Killed in action at Lucknow – 14th March 1858

Important Events 1857 – 1858 – 1859 – 1860

1857

22 January
The sepoys at Dumdum become uneasy about the new cartridges.
January- March
Unrest among the sepoys on the greased cartridge question; outbreaks at Berhampore and Barrackpore, the chapaties pass from village to village.
24 April
Meerut 3rd Light Cavalry; rebellious conduct followed by court-martial.
10 May
Meerut 3rd Light Cavalry, 11th N.I. revolt. Rebels kill officers and other Europeans and burn bungalows, set off for Delhi.
11 May
Rebels arrive Delhi; proclaim Bahadur Shah Zafar as Emperor, murder Europeans, Delhi troops, 5th Light Fd Battery Foot Artillery, 3rd Bn 2nd company,38th N.I. and 54th N.I. all Revolt. Magazine blown up by Lt. Willought by and handful of British, European survivors retreat first to Flagstaff Tower, and then Karnal. Delhi and surrounding area in the control of the rebels.
20 May
At Aligarh a portion of the 9th N.I revolt, followed at Mainpuri and Bulandshahr on the 22nd and Etawa on 23rd, by the remainder of the regiment.
30 May
Revolt at Lucknow, 7th Light Cavalry, and (portion of ) the 13th N.I., 48th N.I. amd 71st N.I. Outbreak at Mathura; rebels march to Delhi. Battle of the Hindun River.
31 May
Bareilly, 18th N.I. , 68th N.I. , 15th Light Fd Battery, and 8th lrreg,Cavalry revolt. Khan Bahadur Khan , a government pensioner takes the lead, and is proclaimed ruler under the King of Delhi. At Shahjahanpur the 28 th N.I. revolts and attacks the Christians. At Agra the native regiments are disarmed; Moradabad in open revolt.
1 June
At Morababad the 29th N.I. revolts. Sepoys at Mathura shoot officers and march for Delhi Outbreak at Budaon.
2 June
5th N.I. revolts at Saharanpur.
3 June
At Neemuch the entire force revolt viz. 1st Light Cavalry, 4th Troop 1st Brigade horse artillery,15th Light Fd Battery,72nd N.I. N.I. At Azamgarh the 17th N.I. revolts. At Sitapur the 41st N.I. revolts with particular ferocity against the European officers civilians Abbas Ali proclaim himself the ruler in Moradabad.
4 June
Partial revolt at Benares by 37th N.I. General Neill arrives and disarms some troops. Revolt at Kanpur by 2nd light cavalary, 1st N.I. ,74th N.I. , and 56th N.I. First Group of Europeans leaves Fatehgarh.
5 June
53rd N.I. Joins the revolt at Kanpur, General Wheeler calls all Europeans and Christians into his entrenchments
6 June
Siege of Wheeler’s entrenchment at Kanpur begins. Nana Sahib joins the rebels and is proclaimed Peshwa,12th N.I. at Jhansi revolt, and massacre of the European follows; 4th company 9th Bn Artillery at Azamgarh revolt. Nawab of Rampur visits Moradabad take charge.
8 June
The Battle of Badle ki serai in Delhi; British troops occupy the Ridge, and the ‘siege’ of the Delhi begins. At Phillour the 3rd N.I. revolt. At Faizabad the 22nd N.I., and the 13th Lt. Fd Battery 5th Bn 2nd company revolt.
11 June
Brigadier General James Neill arrives at Allahabad. Jhansi rebels leave for Delhi.
12 June
Massacre by Nana Sahib of 130 Europeans fugitives from Fatehgarh at Bithur.
15 June
Wajid Ali Shah, ex-king of Awadh and chief councillors imprisoned in Fort William in Calcutta. Bareilly Brigade reaches Moradabad en route for Delhi.
16 June
Maulvi Liaqat Ali files from Allahabad. Nawab’s rule proclaimed at Fatehgarh.
18 June
At Fatehgarh the 10th N.I. (previously loyal) eventually break into revolt. Mewati and pathan
villages in Allahabad district attacked and destroyed by the British.
25 June
At Kanpur The Nana Shahib offers terms to Wheeler in the entrenchment. Revolt at Malthone.
Sack of Delhi.
27 June
Massacre at Satichaura Ghat, Kanpur.
28 June

Fatehgarh Fort besieged by rebels. Nagode gaol. Broken into.
30 June
British defeated at Chinhat ; Lucknow Residency surrounded and besieged. Bulandshahr captured by Walidad Khan.
2 July
Bakht Khan arrives in Delhi with the Bareilly brigade. Pearson’s Battery and Cavalry revolt at Agra.
4 July
Massacre at Rampore on Ganges of European fugitives from Fatehgah / Farrukhabad. Sir Henry Lawrence, dies in the Lucknow Residency.
7 July
General Havelock leaves Allahabad en route for Kanpur.
12 July
Fatehpur occupied by Havelock.
15 July
Action at Anog ( Renaud killed), And at Pandu Nadi. Massacre of the Ladies i.e. Bibighur massacre at Kanpur.
16 July
Nana Sahib defeated by Havelock at Fatehpur, and First Battle of Kanpur. Nana Sahib orders all Bengali Babus to be apprehended.
17 July
Havelock enters Kanpur and Nana Sahib retreats to Bithur.
25 July
The Danapur Brigade revolts, i.e. The 7th N.I., 8th N.I. & 40th N.I.
27 July
Siege of Arrah House Begins.
28 July
Parade Ground Massacre at Farruckhabad (Fatehpur). Azimgarh evacuated by the British.
29 July
Havelock defeats rebels at Unnao.
31 July
The large rebel force from Mhow and Indore arrives at Gwalior, leaving Scindia helpless to prevent their onwards march towards Agra.
3 August
Arrah house relived by Major Eyre.

5 August
Havelock defeats the rebels at Bashiratganj. Kunwar Singh reported to have proclaimed himself King of Shahbad.
8 August
Khan Bahadur Khan’s forces from Bareilly reported as advacing to attack Nainital. Rebels’ gunpowder factory in Delhi blown up.
11 August
Eyre burns Kunwar Singh’s palace at Jagdishpur.
12 August
Havelock defeats Awadh rebels in the third battle of Bashiratganj
13 August
Havelock defeats Awadh rebels in the third battle of Bashiratganj
14 August
Havelock Column under John Nicholson arrives at Delhi. Kunwar Singh arrives at Sassaram.
16 August
Havelock defeats the forces of Nana Sahib at Bithur.
17 August
Sir Colin Campbell takes over duties as British Commander-in- Chief.
19 August
At Ferozepur the 10th Light Cavalry revolt Kunwar Singh at Akbarpur. Amar Singh threatens to
burn Dehri.
20 August
Kunwar Singh at Rohtasgarh.
25 August
Firoz Shah, Shahzada, placed on the musund at Mandsaur.
26 August
Outbreak at Mandsaur.
29 August
At Peshawar the disarmed 51st N.I. revolts. Many are slaughtered. Kunwar Singh arrives in
Ramgarh and plunders Ghorawal.
7 September
Kunwar Sngh closes road to Rewa.
8 September
Kuwar Singh marches through Mirzapur and reported to have arrived in Rewa. Jung Bahadur’s Gurkhas arrive at Jaunpur.

14 September
British begin the assault on Delhi.
19 September
Havelock and Outram set out for Lucknow from Kanpur.
20 September
After a fierce fighting, Delhi finally conquered by the British.
21 September
Captain Hodson claims to have captured the King of Delhi, Bahadur Shah Zafar at Humayun’s Tomb.
22 September
Hodson murders the Mughal Princes.
25 September
Lucknow Residency relieved by Havelock, Neill and Tytler Killed, together with 600 other British casualties.
29 September
Kunwar Singh reaches Banda. Said to be accompanied by 1800 of Danapore rebels.
5 October
Walidad Khan reaches Bareilly with 500 followers. Greathed’s Column meets opposition at Aligarh.
8 October
Nawab of Banda attacks fortress of Ajaigarh.
13 October>
Mirza Bakhtwar Shah and Mirza Mendu, sons of the king of Delhi, tried by the British and shot beside the Jumna.
15 October
Gwailor Contingent join the rebels. Outbreak at Kotah.
19 October
Kunwar Singh with the 40th BNI reaches Kalpi via Banda.
29 October
Tatya Tope with Gwalior Contigent arrives at Jalaun.
7 November
Gwalior Contingent and 40th BNI (with Kunwar Singh) join in and begin advancing to Kanpur.
17 November
Sir Colin Campbell relieves and evacuates the Lucknow Residency, leaving Outram at the Alambagh; rebels see his withdrawal from Awadh as a great victory.

24 November
Havelock dies of dysentery; buried in the Alambagh.
27 November
Gwalior Contingent attacks Nawabganj (Unnao) and forces the British to retire into entrenchments.
3 December
Campbell dispatches all the ladies and sick, ex Lucknow Residency, to Allahabad.
6 December
Campbell defeats Tatya Tope in the third battle of Kanpur.

1858

6 Janurary
Campbell re-occupies Fatehgarh. Sir Hugh Rose begins Central India Campaign.
7 Janurary
Trial of Bahadur Shah Zafar begins in The Red Fort,Delhi. (ends on March 9th)
14 Janurary
Rani of Jhansi issues a proclamation against the British “Victory of religion”
23 January
Rebels mustering again at Kalpi.
28 Janurary
Fortress of Rahatgarh taken by Rose.
3 February
Sir Hugh Rose relieves Sagar.
5 February
Action at Ayodhya between rebels Jung Bahadur’s Gurkhas.
7 February
General Whitlock with Madras troops arrives in Jabalpur.
10 February
Nana Sahib at Naubatganj.
12 February
Kunwar Singh reported to be arriving at Ayodhya.
18 February
Proclamation issued by Firoz Shah at Bareilly.
25 February

Nana Sahib reported to be at Kalpi.
1 March
Tehri troops beaten by Rani’s forces. Charkhari captured.
2-21 March
Campbell retakes Lucknow ; drives out the rebels led by the Maulvi of Faizabad and the begum of Awadh. Lucknow stormed on 14th.
16 March
Nana Sahib reported to be at Shahjahanpur.
17 March
Brigadier Stuart takes Chanderi by storm. Battle of Atraulia, Victory for Kunwar Singh.
18 March
Nawab of Farrukhabad and Banda, Raja Tej Singh of Mainpuri, Khan Bahadur Khan of Bareilly, Walidad Khan specifically excluded from the benefit. (i.e. Free pardon etc.) of British Proclamation offering a reward of rupees one lakh to rebel betraying Nana Sahib.
21 March
Rose arrives at Jhansi.
22 March
Millman besieged in Azimgarh by Kunwar Singh.
23 March
Investment of Jhansi begins.
24 March
Explosion in Khan Bahadur Khan’s gunpowder factory at Bareilly. Nana Sahib arrives at Bareilly.
26 March
Kunwar Singh occupies Azamgarh.
1 April
Battle of Betwa River. Rose defeats Tatya Tope.
3 April
Jhansi captured and sacked.
5 April
Jhansi fort taken by the British. Rani, with her step-son, reaches Kunch.
6 April
Lord Mark Kerr relieves Azamgarh.
15 April

General Walpole defeated at Royah; Brigadier Adrian hope killed.
16 April
Kunwar Singh driven Azamgarh by General Lugarh.
17 April
Rao Sahib issues proclamation to Chiefs of Bundelkund. Kunwar Singh attacked by Brigadier
Douglas near Azamgarh.
18 April
Battle of Banda.
21 April
Kunwar Singh crosses the Ganges at Sheopur Ghat and is mortally wounded while doing so.
22 April
Princes Firoz Shah reaches Moradabad.
23 April
Kunwar Singh defeats the British under Le Grand at Jagdishpur. Rose captures Kalpi.
24 April
Forces of Nawab of Rampur drive Firoz Shah from Moradabad.
26 April
Death of Kunwar Singh.
28 April
Rao Sahib encamped at Jalalpur to oppose Whitlock Gukha army reaches Faizabad and Ayodhya.
3 May
Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah, with large force comes from Mohammadi to Shahjahanpur.
6 May
Battle of Bareilly, included the famous change of the Ghazis of whom 133 were bayoneted.
Bareilly taken but rebel leaders escaped.
8 May
Battle of Kunch, Rose defeats Tatya Tope.
10 May
General Lugard occupied Jagdishpur.
11 May
Amar Singh defeated by Corfield near Piru but manages to escape. Battle of Shahjahpur.
13 May
Rebels Menace British position and camp at Jagdishpur.

15 May
Rebel leaders including Nana Sahib, Khan Bahadur Khan and Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah all in vicinity of Shahjahanpur.
22 May
Battle of Kalpi, Rose captures the arsenal of Kalpi.
24 May
Second Battle of Shahjahanpur rebels defeated by Campbell and driven back to Mohammadi but followed up; British occupy Mohammadi.
25 May
Hamirpur occupied by the British.
1 June
Rani of Jhansi, Rao Sahib and Tatya Tope capture Gwalior. Nawab of Banda also present. Lushkar and Gwalior fort occupied. Madho Singh captured by Rose.
12 June
Battle of Nawabganj; Sir Hope Grant defeats 16000 rebels in final decisive battle In Awadh. Amar Singh returns to Buxar. Khan Bahadur Khan attacks Shahjanpur.
15 June
Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah attacks Pawayan, and is killed.
16 June
Battle of Morar. Raja of Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah to the British at Shahjahanpur to claim the rewards.
17 June
Battle of Kota-Ki- Serai; death of Rani of Jhansi.
19 June
Battle of Gwalior. City is occupied.
20 June
Gwalior fort captured by Rose. Battle of Jaora. Alipur Scindia returns to Gwlior.
5 July
Banpur Raja surrenders to the British.
9 July
Tonk occupied by rebels, Firoz Shah reported to be with them.
10 July
Shahgarh raja surrenders. Rebel force reaches Rampur.
11 July
Ramnagar occupied by the rebels.

26 July
Pawayan and Shahjahanpur reported as ‘seriously threatened’ by Awadh rebels.
27 July
Force besieging Shahganj breaks up.
31 July
Sir Hope Grant relieves Raja Man Singh besieged by rebels.
1 November
Queen Victoria’s proclamation abolishing the rule of the East India Company in India and instituting her own.
12 November
Battle of Shankarpur Beni Madho driven northwards, reported as joining up with Bala Rao.
25 November
Raja of Gonda defeated by Sir Patrick Grant, Gonda occupied.
5 December
Nana Sahib was reported was reported as crossing the Ganga between Fatehgarh and Kanpur.
6 December
Firoz Shah and Walidad Khan reported at Aroul.
17 December
Firoz Shah’s brief encounter with British force under Napier.
23 December
Bala Rao driven from Tulsipur and retreats into Nepal.
December
Bihar rebels finally dispersed.

1859

7 January
The rebellion in Awadh officially declared at an end.
9 January
Prince Firoz Shah cuts his way across Awadh and the Ganges; joins Tatya Tope temporarily.
29 January
Nawab of Farrukhabad arrives at Fatehgarh, under arrest.
28 March
Nana Sahib, Begum of Awadh reported to be at Butwal.
7 April

Khan Bahadur Khan, Begum of Awadh, Nana Sahib and Birjis Qadr reported to be in the fort of
Niacote in Nepal.
8 April
Tatya Tope betrayed and captured.
18 April
Tatya Tope hanged.
20 April
Nana Sahib sends Ishtiharnama to Queen Victoria. Petition to the English from Bala Rao.
8 July
State of peace officially declared throughout India.
24 September
The death of the Nana Sahib reported.
December
Amar Singh captured in the Terai by Jung Bahadur’s troops and handed over to the British.
9 December
Capture of Khan Bahadur Khan by Jung Bahadur reported.
7 December
Khan Bahadur Khan and Mammu Khan lodged in Lucknow Gaol.

1860

24 March
Khan Bahadur Khan of Bareilly hanged on the spot where he had raised the flag of revolt.
3 May
Jwala Prasad hanged at the Satichaura Ghat.

Long before the bitter Babri Masjid-Ram temple issue began to cause social fissures and trigger sectarian violence in India, Muslim rulers of Avadh region built, patronised and protected Hindu temples, a powerful Hindu priest and historians told Gulf News.

One of the 12 provinces under the Mughal empire, the Avadh region included Ayodhya and was ruled by Nawabs from 1722 onward from capital Faizabad. During the rule of Shuja-ud-Daula, the third ruler of Avadh, relations between Hindus and Muslims were harmonious and official gazettes and history books have recorded examples of rich bonding between the two communities. At a time when the dominant narrative seeks to widen fissures in the society, researchers and writers told Gulf News that the glorious history of Avadh Nawabs must be retold to fight attempts to divide people.

Credits (Originally published in Gulf News) : ‘Ayodhya flashback: When Muslim Nawabs built Hindu temples’ – by : Bobby Naqvi, Gulf News UAE. 

Mahant Gyan Das, the head of priest of Hanumangarhi, Ayodhya’s most important temple, is a strong proponent of Hindu-Muslim harmony. As the head of the temple since 1962, Das is widely respected by residents and his opinion and guidance is sought by politicians and high ranking officials on several issues. “This temple was built in 1774 on the 52 bigha [over 20 acres] land gifted by Shuja-ud-Daula,” he told Gulf News in an interview at his house on Monday evening.

“The nawab had once fallen ill and his representative Tikait Rai requested him to take blessings of Hindu saint Baba Abhay Ram Das. The Nawab recovered from his illness after the saint visited him for eight days. Shuja-ud-Daula then gifted the land and built a fortress-type temple that you see here today,” says Das. Later, his son Mansoor Ali also visited the temple on many occasions and donated generously, he says.

This donation was recorded in royal documents to avoid any disputes in future. Das presses a buzzer to summon an aid: “Bring the Taamra Patra.” “The documents were being damaged by termites so we have made copies to preserve them,” he says while fondly posing for photographs holding the copies of royal decrees written in Persian language.

Harmonious tradition

Since then, the temple has continued a tradition of promoting harmony between the two communities. “There is an old mosque built over the land owned by Hanumangarhi temple. Since a Muslim ruler had built the temple, a piece of land was given to Muslims to build a mosque. Two years ago, I received a notice from Ayodhya municipality asking us to demolish the mosque as the structure had become weak. I refused to demolish the mosque and offered to have it renovated. At that time, I faced resistance from some Muslim hardliners who said the mosque would become impure if Hindus’ money is spent for renovation. I asked them whether the mosque had become impure when we built it,” says Das recalling the events.

“Then I asked my friend Sadiq Ali to take charge of the renovation and I offered to pay for it. Still, when some Muslims continued to object, Sadiq Ali told me that he would get the mosque renovated by collecting funds from the community. Today, a grand mosque exists at the site,” he adds. The temple management remains the legal owner of the mosque.

“A few years ago during Ramadan, I organised an iftar for Muslims at my house. I invited 100-150 people but more than 1,000 Muslims showed up at iftar.”

The Muslims broke fast and prayed at the house located inside the temple compound. “Soon after, some Hindu politicians and hardliners accused me of violating the sanctity of the temple by inviting Muslims. I said you had no objections from accepting a temple from a Muslim Nawab,” adds Das. Not satisfied with his logic, some hardliners then dared Muslims to organise a Hanuman Chalisaa at the mosque. Sadiq accepted the challenge and organised a prayer chanted by hundreds of Sadhus at the mosque.

“I am a Sadhu who left his home, loved ones and I have remained a staunch opponent of hardliners and strongly believe in humanity,” he says, adding, “You call Him Khuda, I call Him Ishwar.”

Credits (Originally published in Gulf News) : ‘Ayodhya flashback: When Muslim Nawabs built Hindu temples’ – by : Bobby Naqvi, Gulf News UAE. 

I cried when Saddam died

Mahant Das is well traveled and visited Dubai, New York, Washington and other cities. But he has a lot to say about his visit to Saudi Arabia and Iraq. He fondly remembers a meeting with Saddam Hussain in 1992. “He warmly hugged me and when I presented him a copy of Ramayana, he kissed it,” says Das. “I was very upset when Americans caught Saddam Hussain and cried when he was hanged.” Das also recalled his visit to Saudi Arabia and Brunei.

What historians say

Gulf News spoke to Lucknow based historian Roshan Taqui who said the Avadh Gazette is replete with instances of Muslim Nawabs building and donating money for upkeep and repairs of Hindu temples. “The Hanumangarhi still has a Persian plaque proclaiming that the temple was built by Shuja-ud-Daula who ruled Avadh region from 1754 to 1774,” says Taqui. “The history of Avadh is replete with examples of Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb and all the Nawabs had Hindu administrators for smooth governance,” he says.

“During my research on conservation of old buildings, I had seen the royal decrees kept in Uttar Pradesh state archives. The royal decree recorded gifting of the land and construction of Hanumangarhi temple,” he says. “Moreover, during the rule of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, an attempt to take over Hanumangarhi and Sita Rasoi by some Muslim hardliners was crushed by the Avadh ruler’s soldiers. The hardliners led by a Muslim cleric Amir Ali were killed by the Nawab’s Muslim soldiers during an assault in Bhelsar, near Rudauli. Over 300 Muslim soldiers of the Nawab also died in the assault,” he says, emphasising that Avadh rulers provided protection to Hindu temples.

Author and researcher Yogesh Pravin says Shuja-ud-Daula’s father Saadat Ali Khan also patronised Hindu temples. “All these examples are well recorded in government archives and libraries and available for reference,” says Pravin. “The rulers of Avadh worked for harmonious relations between the communities and their work is well recorded in history,” he adds.

When Umrao Jaan was being shot in the early 1980s, the cast and crew of the Rekha-starrer film would visit Raheem’s regularly. “I was too young then, so I don’t have any memory, but my father told me that the entire cast ate at our restaurant on more than one occasion and Farooq Shaikh had loved the nihari,” says Bilal Raheem Ahmad, one of five brothers who run the restaurant now.

Ever wondered how there seem to be no end to the baghs in Lucknow? We bring to you the untold stories behind some of the city’s landmarks.

Wander through the streets of Lucknow and you are bound to find a number of areas with a suffix bagh meaning garden, attached to its name. Though the suffix may have no relevance today but there was a time when the city of nawabs was known to be home to no less than 400 such royal gardens.

For example Martinpurva used to be known as Lakhpeda as it had more than a lakh trees of guava and mango. Similarly, Hussainabad area was formerly called Jamuniya Bagh as this area was covered with jamun trees.”

Avers Yogesh Praveen, another historian, “Lucknow was called the city of palaces and gardens. A number of these localities were erstwhile residential colonies for the royalty, with kothis and huge gardens.

Once stripped of their titles it became difficult for the nawabs to maintain such huge gardens, so most sold them off. But the names remained.”

SECUNDER BAGH: Nawab Wajid Ali Shah fell in love with a lady named Secunder Begum but married her only when she was on her death bed, suffering from an incurable disease. He constructed a palace, a masjid and garden pavilion for the begum in the area which is now with the National Botanical Research Institute. The garden extended till the Gomti banks and was called Secunder Bagh.

MUSA BAGH: Huge gardens laid by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daulah existed in this area located near Hardoi road. Legend says that the nawab killed a rat (mushik) here hence the name. Some also believe it took its name from a French word Monsieur during Lord Martin’s period.

ALAM BAGH: This garden was named after Alam Ara, the first wife of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. The young couple harboured a love for ghazals, and used to compose couplets sitting in these gardens.

CHAR BAGH: The area got its name from the four huge Mughal style gardens here during the time of Nawab Asaf-ud-Daulah. A garden called Bagh Sher Jung named after his uncle Sher Jung, Governor of Kashmir, existed where the city station stands now, built along with Buland Bagh laid near Rakabgunj.

KAISER BAGH: Set up by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, it was a huge complex with small gardens dotting the area. It got its name from Urdu word qaiser meaning king, hence Qaiser’s Bagh.” Another story goes that the nawab was besotted with a beautiful lady, who was referred to as qaiser pasand (the king’s choice). He laid the garden for her and called it Kaiserbagh.

BADSHAH BAGH: Laid by Nawab Naseer-ud-Din Haider for his wife Kudsia Begum, it was a ladies garden, where even the gardeners were all women. The nawab visited this garden on a steamer which cruised from Chatr Manzil (CDRI) to Badshahbagh (Near Kailash Hostel). It was the badshah’s garden hence its name.

VILAYATI BAGH: Historians believe this garden, situated near Dilkusha gardens in present day cantonement area, got its name because of the two foreign wives, one of whom was a Christian and another, an Armenian (vilayati begums) of Nawab Ghazi-Ud-Din Haider. According to another story, the varieties of flower planted here were of foreign origin, hence the moniker Vilayati Bagh.

I belong to Lucknow. Thats where I have spent most of my childhood. I did my school and college from Lucknow. I stepped out of Lucknow to persue my career in technology. When I joined work there were people from all over India. After a badinage you often end up asking the other person “Where are you from ?” I have faced this question too and I have had a variety of responses to my answer which is “Lucknow”.

Things you hear when you tell someone you are from Lucknow:

• Lucknow mein “MAIN” nahi “HUM” kehte hai, hai na ? : This is most common thing that you would hear the moment you tell that you are from Lucknow. Till the time I was in Lucknow I never realised this but this is true, we do say “HUM”instead of “MAIN”. Coming from the city of tameez and tehzeeb it came from within we never really worked towards speaking “HUM” in place of “MAIN”.
• Lucknow ka chicken toh bahut famous hai : After empahasizing on your choice of words they would straight jump to the craftsmanship of Lucknow. When I say chicken I meant Lucknow’s famous embriodery not the edible chicken. Initiallly I used to think what is this fuzz all about. I have grown up seeing chicken all aruond me so it wasn’t a big deal for me but now I realise the beauty of it. If you are from Lucknow you must have definitely bought chicken clothings for your friends atleast once in your lifetime. If you haven’t yet, you will soon.
• Tum toh Tunde mein roz khati hogi: Lucknow is the undisputed king of kebabs and Tunde has a reputation worth bragging. Being a vegetrian I have never had a kabab from Tunde. Yes go ahead Judge me. But I still know it must be sumptuous and mouthwatering courtsey all my non vegetarian friends and their love for Tunde. It has happened time and again that I have been asked to get Kebabas from Tunde but so far nobody has been that privileged.
• Mayawati has made a Marine Drive in Lucknow, is it true ?: There is huge transformation done by Mayawati near the Gomti Nagar area. It has been very artistically desgined and it’s beauty is worth watching for hours. You would happily visit this place almost everyday. Nowadays it has become a popular destination for photography. So the answer is “Yes” we do have a Marine Drive in Lucknow.

If you are from Lucknow I am sure you must have heard at least one of the above from your friends or colleagues. Say yay if you have. I am sure you must have smiled reading this post. Do comment if I have missed anything which is worth mentioning here. Would love to hear your views on this, so drop your comments below.