Mangal Pandey (1827-1857)

Why in News? : The Prime Minister paid tribute to the great freedom fighter Mangal Pandey on his 198th birth anniversary on 19 July, 2025.
Introduction : Mangal Pandey was an Indian soldier who played a key role in the First War of Independence of 1857. He is considered the first martyr of the revolution.
Birth and Early Life : He was born on 19 July, 1827, in Nagwa village of Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh.
Military service : He was a soldier of the 34th Bengal Native Infantry of the British East India Company.
Revolt of 1857 : On 29 March, 1857, he opposed to use grease cartridges in newly introduced Enfield rifles at Barrackpore (near Kolkata).
Reason for the rebellion : There was a rumour that these cartridges were made from cow and pig fat, which hurt the religious sentiments of both Hindu and Muslim soldiers.
Main incident: Pandey confronted and attacked his superiors, Lieutenant Baugh and Sergeant Major Hudson.
Aftermath : After this incident, he was arrested and hanged in Barrackpore on 8 April,1857.
Significance : His martyrdom sparked a major rebellion against British rule in India, which later became known as the Great Revolt of 1857. He is considered the most revered and respected figure in India.