Lal Pratap Singh

The Brave Warrior of Kalakankar

The Visen Rajputs were the Talukdars of Kalakankar, with Rampur serving as the capital of the estate known as Rampur-Dharupur. This distinguished lineage descended from Roop Mull, the younger brother of a ruler of Majhauli in present-day Gorakhpur district. The family later moved to Manikpur near Allahabad before finally establishing themselves at Kalakankar under the leadership of Raja Hanumant Singh.

The rulers of Kalakankar were known for their steadfast commitment to independence and resistance against injustice. Among the bravest of them was Lal Pratap Singh, the eldest son of Raja Hanumant Singh.

Role in the Uprising of 1857

During the turbulent period of the Indian uprising of 1857, Wajid Ali Shah was deposed by the East India Company and exiled to Calcutta. In his absence, Begum Hazrat Mahal assumed the regency on behalf of her young son.

The Company had imposed the oppressive “Mahalwari” system of taxation, which steadily increased revenue demands, causing immense hardship to landlords and peasants alike. Deep resentment spread across Awadh, and many talukdars aligned themselves with Begum Hazrat Mahal in an effort to restore native rule and resist British authority.

At the Begum’s request, Raja Hanumant Singh raised a battalion of 1,000 soldiers under the command of Lal Pratap Singh. This battalion, known as “Pratap Jang,” mobilized in February 1858 when British forces under Colin Campbell advanced to recapture Lucknow.

The Battle of Chande

The forces summoned by Begum Hazrat Mahal, including the Kalakankar contingent, assembled at Chande in Sultanpur district. On 19 February 1858, as the soldiers of “Pratap Jang” were at breakfast, they were suddenly attacked by Company troops.

Despite being taken by surprise, each soldier seized whatever weapon was at hand and fought valiantly until their ammunition was exhausted. Reinforcements were cut off, and the other allied forces were forced to retreat.

Lal Pratap Singh was urged to withdraw and preserve his life for future resistance. However, choosing honour over retreat, the young warrior led his troops into a final, determined stand. Many brave soldiers fell that day, and Lal Pratap Singh attained martyrdom in battle. Though his body was humiliated by Company commanders, his courage and sacrifice could not be diminished.

Legacy and Remembrance

Lal Pratap Singh’s untimely death deeply grieved his father, Raja Hanumant Singh. He left behind his young widow, Diggach Kunwari, and a son, Ram Pal Singh, born in August 1848. Known for his disciplined life, kindness, and generosity, Lal Pratap Singh became a lasting symbol of bravery and resistance for future generations.

In honour of his sacrifice and unwavering patriotism, the Department of Posts has issued a commemorative postage stamp on Lal Pratap Singh, paying tribute to this valiant son of Kalakankar who laid down his life in the struggle against colonial rule.