Archive · 30 Sep 2025
Nana Sahib: 1857 Rebel and Elusive Figure with Rs 114 Crore Bounty
Nana Sahib was adopted by a Peshwa but the British didn't give him the inheritance he expected.
When the British took over, Nana Sahib led a revolt in 1857.
He fought against the British in Kanpur but was never caught, even though the British put a huge reward, worth a lot of money today, for his capture.
He disappeared, with rumors of him living in Nepal or Bhutan, becoming a mysterious figure who challenged the British empire.
Nana Sahib, adopted son of Baji Rao II, was denied inheritance by the British.
He led a rebellion against the British in Kanpur in 1857.
Nana Sahib commanded the siege against British forces in Kanpur.
The British offered a large bounty (Rs 1 lakh) for his capture.
He disappeared and was never captured, fueling legends of his whereabouts.
- Who
- Nana Sahib Peshwa, adopted son of Baji Rao II, and leader of the 1857 rebellion.
- What
- Led a rebellion against the British in Kanpur, and later went into hiding.
- When
- 1857, with his disappearance around 1859-1861.
- Where
- Kanpur (Cawnpore), with potential refuge in Nepal or Bhutan.
- Why
- In response to the British East India Company's refusal to recognize his claim to inheritance and their governance.
- Full Name
- Dhondu Pant (Nana Sahib Peshwa)
- Adopted by
- Baji Rao II
- Location of Rebellion
- Kanpur (Cawnpore)
- Event
- Leader of the 1857 Indian Rebellion
- British Bounty
- Rs 1 lakh (equivalent to Rs 114 crore today)
- Fate
- Disappeared, never captured