How did the message about the Revolt of 1857 spread?
The Revolt of 1857 was associated not only with the people of the court but also with ordinary men and women. Besides the ranis, rajas, nawabs, and taluqdars, many common people, religious persons and self-styled prophets participated in it. The message of rebellion was carried by ordinary men and women. At some places, even the religious people spread the message of the Revolt of 1857. For example, in Meerut, a Fakir used to ride on an elephant. Many sepoys met him time and again. After the annexation of Awadh, Lucknow had many religious leaders and self-styled prophets who preached the destruction of the British rule. At many places, the local leaders played an important role. They urged the peasants, Zamindars, and tribals to revolt. In Uttar Pradesh, Shah Mai motivated and mobilized the residents of Barout paragana.
