Journey to Awadh – The Heart of Rebellion

Our next destination after Varanasi was Faizabad, a place steeped in both history and significance. The lush green fields of Uttar Pradesh stretched endlessly, interrupted by occasional villages and towns. Unlike the frenetic pace of the capital, Faizabad moved with a gentler rhythm, but an undercurrent of unrest could be felt here as well.

Faizabad was once the capital of the Kingdom of Awadh, and even now, its historical significance hasn't faded.

This was the land of Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh. Even if it was no longer the capital, the city retained its importance due to notable landmarks like the historic Faizabad Fort and the grand mausoleum of the revered Sufi saint, Bahu Begum.

I knew that, in the coming years, the British would use the Doctrine of Lapse against Wajid Ali Shah, aiming to justify his removal due to his lack of a legitimate heir.

But they underestimated the profound affection the Nawab commanded among his subjects.

The ordinary people loved their Nawabs—whether in Faizabad or Lucknow—unlike the British, who failed to grasp the depth of this bond.

Support from Faizabad would be crucial. Unlike other regions, Awadh was a state where nearly every city would participate in the revolt. The people of Awadh were united, and their uprising would be massive in number and resolve. If we could rally support here, the British forces, already weak in this region, might crumble.

I decided to meet Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah, a charismatic leader and key figure in the rebellion. Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah had originally come from Madras to Faizabad, becoming an influential figure for both sepoys and civilians.

The British considered him one of the most dangerous leaders of the rebellion due to his ability to rally large numbers and his military acumen. Unfortunately, history would show that he was betrayed by the Raja of Powayan, a local lord aligned with the British.

I tasked Sufiyan with finding Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah, but after a long search, it became clear that he hadn't yet arrived in Faizabad.

It seemed he was still travelling across India, spreading anti-British sentiments and advocating for India's liberation.

While I was disappointed not to meet one of the rebellion's key figures, I pressed forward, deciding to move on to the "capital of Awadh."

As we stepped into Lucknow, the city welcomed us with a mesmerizing blend of architectural splendour and vibrant culture.

The grand structures, with their intricate Mughal and Awadhi designs, stood proudly against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, showcasing the rich history of the city.

Unlike other places, the people here moved at a slower pace, speaking with politeness and sophistication.

The iconic Bara Imambara, with its massive arched entrances and labyrinthine pathways, captivated my senses. Nearby, the majestic Rumi Darwaza beckoned me to explore more of the city. Lucknow's bustling bazaars, filled with artisans crafting chikankari embroidery and the aroma of kebabs, painted a vivid picture of life in this vibrant metropolis.

But beneath the beauty lay a simmering tension. The people of Lucknow, fiercely proud of their heritage, were growing increasingly discontent with British rule.

I decided to meet Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. Like my father, he was a poet, so I expected a pleasant conversation.

my poetic reputation had made him somewhat famous in certain circles, and I had gained some recognition for my unique style after spending time with my father at various poetry gatherings. Wajid Ali Shah was more than a ruler—his contributions to Awadh's cultural identity as a poet, musician, and dancer were undeniable.

During our meeting, I explained how the Doctrine of Lapse would affect him and his kingdom. He was a pacifist, and history had shown he would not resist the British militarily.

Instead, he would travel to Calcutta (Kolkata) to plead his case, hoping to retain his throne. But I knew his efforts would be in vain.

After discussing the political realities, we shifted the conversation to poetry and cultural developments, something that animated him greatly.

After a lengthy discussion, I decided it was time to leave.

The next day, I met his wife, Begum Hazrat Mahal. I shared the same concerns with her, and she promised to speak with her husband, trying to convince him to stand his ground.

There was little more I could do in Lucknow, as Wajid Ali Shah's decision would take time. Whether or not he resisted, I knew Begum Hazrat Mahal would lead the charge against the British, as history would later confirm.

Our next destination was Kanpur, where I met Nana Sahib, the adopted son of the deposed Peshwa Baji Rao II.

I explained how the Doctrine of Lapse would affect him and urged him to join our cause. Given the extensive support we had already garnered, it was a straightforward decision for him, and he readily agreed to stand with us.

After nearly ten months of travelling across half of India, rallying support and meeting key figures, I was exhausted. I decided it was time to return to Delhi and rest.

When I told Sufiyan, he seemed relieved and mentioned how impressed he was with my energy throughout the journey. I hadn't realized it myself, but perhaps my enhanced physique was to thank for the endurance it had taken to undertake such a monumental task.

[The next chapter will have a bit of a different writing style tell me which one you guys prefer]