Surat Singh facts for kids
Raja Surat Singh (1810–1881) was an important leader from Punjab. He was a Jagirdar (which means he managed land and collected taxes for the ruler) and a military officer in the Khalsa Army, the army of the Sikh Empire. He was also a member of the famous Majithia family.
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Early Life and Military Career
Surat Singh was born in Majitha. His father was Sardar Attar Singh. Surat Singh joined his father in many military campaigns under Ranjit Singh, who was a powerful ruler of the Sikh Empire. In 1843, Surat Singh took over his father's responsibilities.
During the First Anglo-Sikh War, Surat Singh helped keep order in the area of Naushera.
Role in the Second Anglo-Sikh War
Before the Second Anglo-Sikh War began, Surat Singh supported the idea of fighting against the British. When Sher Singh, another leader, left Multan, Surat Singh was put in charge of a part of his army. This group had two thousand men and two cannons.
He led his troops on a march to Jalalpur. After the Battle of Gujrat, his lands were taken away. He was sent away to Benares and given a small yearly payment.
Actions During the Indian Rebellion of 1857
When the Indian Rebellion of 1857 started, Surat Singh was still living in Benares. In June 1857, some Sikh soldiers were accused of being disloyal. They were treated unfairly, which made other Sikh soldiers guarding the treasury very angry. These soldiers thought about rebelling.
Surat Singh went to speak with them. He used his influence to calm them down and stop them from rebelling. Later in the rebellion, he even led troops in battles. On July 6, he was hurt by a sword during a fight in Benares.
Later Life and Honors
Because of his help during the 1857 rebellion, Surat Singh was rewarded. He received a larger yearly payment and was given land in Dumri, Gorakhpur. He was also allowed to return to Punjab.
In 1875, he became an Honorary Magistrate. This meant he could help make legal decisions in Majithia. In 1877, he was given the special title of Raja. He was also made a Companion of the Star of India, which is a high honor from the British government.
Family and Legacy
Raja Surat Singh passed away in 1881. His oldest son, Umrao Singh, took over his responsibilities. Surat Singh's granddaughter, Amrita Sher-Gil, became a famous artist. His younger son, Sundar Singh Majithia, became an important politician in Punjab.
