Early Life

Born as Dhondu Pant in 1824; adopted by Peshwa Baji Rao II in Bithoor

British Betrayal

Denied inheritance and pension under Lord Dalhousie’s Doctrine of Lapse, fueling resentment

1857 Rebellion

Joined the Indian Rebellion of 1857, leading forces in Kanpur against British rule

Siege of Kanpur

Led a fierce siege; briefly took control from the British, inspiring Indian resistance

Mysterious Disappearance

Vanished after Kanpur’s fall; believed to have escaped to Nepal, remaining a symbol of freedom

Legacy

Celebrated as an early freedom fighter, representing bravery and resistance against British oppression