Mangal Pandey was a soldier in the 34th Bengal Native Infantry (BNI) of the British East India Company. Born on July 19, 1827, in Akbarpur, Uttar Pradesh, Pandey is best remembered for his pivotal role in the events leading up to the Indian Rebellion of 1857, often referred to as the Sepoy Mutiny or India’s First War of Independence​Â
Pandey’s regiment, stationed at Barrackpore, was at the center of the unrest due to the introduction of the new Enfield rifle. The cartridges for this rifle were rumored to be greased with cow and pig fat, which was deeply offensive to Hindu and Muslim soldiers alike. This issue ignited widespread resentment among the sepoys​Â
On March 29, 1857, Pandey attacked his British officers, inciting other soldiers to join the rebellion. Although his actions were initially unsupported by his peers, they significantly contributed to the larger revolt that ensued. Pandey was arrested and later executed on April 8, 1857. His martyrdom is celebrated as a key moment in India’s struggle for independence​Â