Freedom fighters of 1857 from "summary" of City of Djinns by William Dalrymple

The 1857 uprising is also known as the First War of Indian Independence, a rebellion by Indians against British rule in India. It was led by various freedom fighters who sought to topple the oppressive colonial power and establish an independent India.

Tantia Tope, Nana Sahib, Begum Hazrat Mahal and Rani Laxmibai are some major figures among the brave warriors in the struggle for independence. Their strategies and tactics helped weakened and shatter the powerful occupation of British.

Hundreds of people from all walks of life came together to form a coordinated effort towards freedom. People who failed to take part in direct action contributed substantially in other ways such as providing financial support or food and weapons to the rebellion.

Mangal Pande was one among the first spiritual military leaders that fought against the British empire. He had no objection to changing his religion but he wanted independence from the British rule.

This initial battle for independence is remembered for the gallantry exhibited by its foot-soldiers and commanders alike and stands to this day as reminder of bravery, heroism, immense courage and relentless perseverance in times of adversity.

Azimullah Khan, Bakht Khan and Maulvi Ahmadulla were the majorir strategists of the war whose strategic ideas like ‘guerilla warfare’ played pivotal role in keeping up with the fight against the overpowering British force.