Question

What was the role played by Surapura Venkatappa Nayaka in the First War of Independence, 1857-58?

Answer 1

Answer:

Explanation:

Surapura Venkatappa Nayaka was the most influential and last ruler of Nayak Dynasty of Shorapur.

The Shorapur district was then ruled by Bedar Nayaka's (Ramoshi). Soon  the British appointed  a writer, Philip Meadows Taylor as its Resident . After the death of the ruler( who left behing a young prince Venkatappa) Taylor became Regent. The young prince was given education in English and soon developed a cordial relationship with Taylor, whom he even referred as "Appa".

The prince soon found the British overlordship very suffocating. In December 1857 he then sent out an agent to Peshwa Nanasaheb. The British received information which suggested that Venkatappa was trying to stage a revolt on 8th August 1858. They also doubted that he was in some way trying to instigate the British regiments at Kolhapur, Dharwad and Belgaum to revolt.

He and Jamkhandi Raja appointed two agents on 2nd February 1858 to instigate the Belgaum army against the British. A large number of Rohillas and Arabs were recruited by him. Sensing trouble Capt. Malcolm posted an army contingent  near Sindhanur and Surapura village.

Malcom then sent Campbell to Surapur  to advise the young prince. Venkatappa's men attacked the British army near Surapura on 7th February which lead to death of many British soldiers. In retaliation the very next day the British attacked Surapur fort.

During the attack led by the prince`s army at the Surapur fort many British soldiers were killed.  But Surapur was not in a position to face the large contingent of British army.

British secret agent Vagangeri Bhimrao from Surapur cheated Venkatappa by suggesting him to visit Hyderabad and ask help from Salar Jung. The young prince believed him and escaped  the fort to make his way to Hyderabad. The next day, Bhimrao allowed the British to enter the fort by opening the door for them and soon Surapur was taken over without any stiff resistance.

Hope this helps.