The Sanyasi Revolt, also known as the Sanyasi and Fakir Rebellion, occurred in the late 18th century in Bengal, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. It was uprising against British colonial rule. The revolt involved various groups, including Sanyasis, Fakirs, displaced Zamindars, and peasants.
Who Were the Sanyasis?
Sanyasis are individuals who renounce worldly life for spiritual pursuits. However, the Sanyasis involved in the revolt were not purely ascetic. They were part of the Dasanami sect, which emerged in the 9th century. This sect included different traditions, such as the Naga Sadhus, established by Madhusudana Saraswati in the 16th century. These Sanyasis were often referred to as Gosain or Goswami. They were seen by the British as “gypsies of Hindustan” and “lawless mendicants.”
Who Were the Fakirs?
The Fakirs in this uprising belonged to the Madariya group of Sufi mystics. This group traces its roots to Syed Badiuddin Qutb-ul-Madar. The Madariya Fakirs were known for their spiritual practices and were integral to the revolt against British authority.
Causes of the Revolt
Several factors contributed to the Sanyasi and Fakir Revolt:
- Economic Exploitation: After the British gained control post-Battle of Plassey, they increased land taxes, burdening peasants.
- Bengal Famine of 1770: This disaster led to crop failures, worsening the plight of peasants and Zamindars.
- Confiscation of Lands: The Permanent Settlement resulted in the loss of land for many traditional Zamindars.
- Restrictions: The British viewed Sanyasis and Fakirs as threats, imposing restrictions on their activities.
These factors combined to create a volatile environment, leading to rebellion.
Course of the Revolt
The revolt began in the late 18th century and continued for approximately fifty years. The Sanyasis and Fakirs, alongside displaced landlords and peasants, united against British rule.
- Raids: They conducted raids on government treasuries and targeted British officers.
- Mass Mobilisation: The rebellion peaked with around fifty thousand participants.
- Key Events: In 1771, the killing of 150 Fakirs escalated tensions, leading to widespread uprisings.
The revolt caused disruption and chaos in the region.
Leaders and Key Figures
The revolt featured several notable leaders and groups:
- Majanun Shah: A prominent Fakir leader who inspired many to resist British rule. He was eventually killed.
- Musa Shah: Majanun’s brother, who took over leadership after his death.
- Chirag Shah: He led further attacks on British establishments.
- Bhabani Pathak: A Sanyasi leader known for his Robin Hood-like persona, who gained popularity among the downtrodden.
- Devi Chowdhurani: She succeeded Bhabani Pathak as a leader of the Sanyasi movement.
These leaders played crucial roles in mobilising support and directing the revolt.
Social Dynamics of the Revolt
The Sanyasi and Fakir Revolt was not solely a religious uprising. It was a social movement that included:
- Displaced Zamindars: Many landlords lost their estates and joined the revolt.
- Peasants: They formed the social backbone of the uprising, driven by economic grievances.
- Artisans: Craftsmen and tradesmen also supported the movement, seeking to resist British economic policies.
- Disbanded Armies: Former soldiers from Nawabi armies provided military experience and leadership.
This diverse coalition strengthened the rebellion.
Geographical Spread
The revolt spread across various regions, demonstrating widespread discontent:
- Dacca: The rebels captured the British centre here for a period.
- Patna: Significant attacks occurred in this region against British forces.
- Hooghly: The revolt reached this area with considerable intensity.
- Cooch Bihar and Saran: Other locations where the rebellion gained traction.
The geographical spread indicates the extensive nature of the revolt.
Impact of the Revolt
The Sanyasi and Fakir Revolt had lasting effects on British colonial policies and Indian society:
- Increased Repression: The British response included severe crackdowns on dissent.
- Policy Changes: The uprising prompted the British to reconsider their taxation and land policies.
- Social Awareness: The revolt brought into light the plight of peasants and the need for reform.
The revolt marked moment in the resistance against colonial rule.
Internal Conflicts
Despite initial successes, internal divisions weakened the revolt:
- Leadership Struggles: After the deaths of key leaders, the movement faced a lack of cohesive leadership.
- Dissensions: Differences among factions led to fragmentation.
- Loss of Support: As the revolt progressed, some groups withdrew their support.
These factors contributed to the eventual decline of the uprising.
Legacy of the Revolt
The Sanyasi Revolt remains event in Indian history:
- Cultural Impact: It inspired literature and art, including Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s “Anandamath.”
- National Consciousness: The revolt contributed to the growing sense of Indian identity and nationalism.
- Historical Recognition: It is remembered as one of the early forms of resistance against British colonialism.
The legacy of the revolt continues to resonate in contemporary discussions on colonial history and resistance.
