Hare Krishna Singh Bhadauria

Hare Krishna Singh Bhadauria (born 1827) was a key figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and served as a chief associate and military commander under Babu Veer Kunwar Singh in Bihar. Known for his expertise in guerrilla warfare and strategic leadership, he played a pivotal role in the resistance against British colonial rule in Eastern India.

Early Life and Background

Hare Krishna Singh was born in 1827 in Shahabad district, located in present-day Bihar. He was the son of Sri Aidalsingh Bhadauria and belonged to a respected zamindar family of the Bhadauria clan, known for its warrior tradition and historical prominence. Professionally, he served as a Tehsildar of Piro Pargana, which formed part of the Jagdishpur estate governed by the Ujjainia-Parmar zamindari.

Association with Kunwar Singh

Hare Krishna Singh was among the most trusted Amlah (officials and associates) of Babu Veer Kunwar Singh, the ruler of Jagdishpur and a celebrated leader of the 1857 uprising. British records describe Hare Krishna Singh as a man of medium stature, approximately 30 years old at the time, and distinguished by his upward-twirled mustache.

Historians attribute several of Kunwar Singh’s battlefield successes to Hare Krishna Singh's tactical brilliance. His influence and guidance were instrumental in shaping Kunwar Singh’s decision to rebel, especially during the early stages of the revolt in Bihar.

Role in the 1857 Rebellion

As the Indian Rebellion of 1857 spread from Meerut across the subcontinent, Hare Krishna Singh rallied support within the Jagdishpur estate. Drawing on the rebellious legacy of the Bhadauria dynasty, he persuaded Kunwar Singh to take up arms against British authority, marking one of the earliest uprisings in Bihar.

In collaboration with Babu Amar Singh, Kunwar Singh’s brother, Hare Krishna Singh assumed the position of chief commander of their revolutionary forces. His mastery of guerrilla tactics significantly challenged the British forces in the region. He conducted a sustained campaign of resistance for nearly a year, earning the reputation of being one of the rebellion’s most determined and effective leaders in Bihar.

The British colonial authorities identified him as a primary instigator of the uprising in Bihar and viewed him as a formidable threat due to his military acumen and popular influence.

Legacy

Hare Krishna Singh Bhadauria is remembered as a key architect of the 1857 revolt in Bihar. His role in mobilizing resistance and leading military operations against colonial rule continues to be recognized as a significant contribution to India’s first struggle for independence.