NCERT Class 12 History — Chapter 2: Rebels and the Raj- 1857 Revolt and its Representations

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With reference to the revolt in Awadh, who was Hanwant Singh?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

AA moneylender whose house was looted by peasants.
BThe British Resident who was killed in the Residency.
CThe Raja of Kalakankar who gave shelter to a British officer but joined the revolt.
DA sepoy who started the mutiny in Lucknow.

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Solution

The correct option is The Raja of Kalakankar who gave shelter to a British officer but joined the revolt..

Explanation

The Revolt of 1857 in Awadh involved the widespread participation of taluqdars (landholders) who had been dispossessed following the British annexation of the region in 1856. Their involvement was driven by loyalty to the deposed Nawab and the loss of their traditional power and revenue.

Historical Context of Hanwant Singh:

Identity: Hanwant Singh was the Raja of Kalakankar, a prominent taluqdar in Awadh.
Role in the Revolt: During the uprising, he is historically noted for a specific interaction with a British officer, Captain Barrow. Despite being aggrieved by British policies that stripped him of his lands, Hanwant Singh adhered to the traditional code of hospitality and provided shelter to the officer, ensuring his safety.
Political Stance: While he saved the British officer's life, Hanwant Singh explicitly declared that he would not support the British government. He stated his intention to join the rebellion to fight for his King (Wajid Ali Shah) and his religion. This incident is frequently cited to illustrate the complex motivations and code of conduct of the landed aristocracy during the revolt.

Key Takeaway: Hanwant Singh represents the nuanced position of Awadh's taluqdars in 1857, who balanced personal codes of honor and hospitality with fierce political opposition to British rule.

Your note

More from Chapter 2: Rebels and the Raj- 1857 Revolt and its Representations

Consider the following statements regarding the planning and coordination of the Revolt of 1857: 1. There is clear documentary evidence proving that a central committee of Indian rulers planned the dates of the mutinies. 2. The 7th Awadh Irregular Cavalry refused to accept new cartridges and informed the 48th Native Infantry that they awaited their orders. 3. Charles Ball noted that panchayats were a nightly occurrence in the Kanpur sepoy lines. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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With reference to Shah Mal, a rebel leader in 1857, consider the following statements: 1. He destroyed the bungalow of an English officer rather than using it for administration. 2. He belonged to a clan of Jat cultivators related to the chaurasee des. 3. He survived the revolt and lived until 1860. Which of the statements given above are correct?

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Who among the following was popularly known as "Danka Shah" during the Revolt of 1857?

easy

"A cherry that will drop into our mouth one day." Which Governor General made this remark regarding the kingdom of Awadh?

easy

With reference to the administrative structures established by the rebels in 1857, consider the following statements: 1. The rebels attempted to restore the eighteenth-century Mughal world. 2. In Awadh, the administrative hierarchy collapsed completely within days of the revolt. 3. They continued the system of land revenue collection to meet military expenses. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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The correct option is The Raja of Kalakankar who gave shelter to a British officer but joined the revolt..

Explanation

Historical Context of Hanwant Singh:

Identity: Hanwant Singh was the Raja of Kalakankar, a prominent taluqdar in Awadh.
Role in the Revolt: During the uprising, he is historically noted for a specific interaction with a British officer, Captain Barrow. Despite being aggrieved by British policies that stripped him of his lands, Hanwant Singh adhered to the traditional code of hospitality and provided shelter to the officer, ensuring his safety.
Political Stance: While he saved the British officer's life, Hanwant Singh explicitly declared that he would not support the British government. He stated his intention to join the rebellion to fight for his King (Wajid Ali Shah) and his religion. This incident is frequently cited to illustrate the complex motivations and code of conduct of the landed aristocracy during the revolt.

Key Takeaway: Hanwant Singh represents the nuanced position of Awadh's taluqdars in 1857, who balanced personal codes of honor and hospitality with fierce political opposition to British rule.