Shaurya Naman: Seth Ramdas Ji Gudawale – The Unsung Hero of 1857
Author: Ramesh Chandra Sharma
In the pages of our nation’s history, many names shine brightly, yet some valiant souls have been lost to the dust of time. One such name is that of Seth Ramdas Ji Gudawale—a great revolutionary and philanthropist of the 1857 uprising, who challenged the British with his wealth, organizational prowess, and courage. Let us narrate his saga in a simple and vivid manner, so we may honor his martyrdom with true reverence.
The Wealthy Seth of Delhi and a Patriot
Seth Ramdas Ji Gudawale was born into an Agrawal family in Delhi. He was not only a billionaire merchant and banker but also one of the most influential figures of his time. His family established Delhi’s first textile mill, and tales of his prosperity spread far and wide. People would say, “Seth Ramdas Ji Gudawale has so much gold, silver, and jewels that he could stop the waters of the Ganga with his walls.” Yet, his heart was not swayed by wealth but by patriotism. A close friend of the last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar, he held the freedom of his motherland as the most precious treasure.
The 1857 Revolt and Ramdas Ji’s Contribution
When the spark of rebellion ignited in Meerut in 1857 and reached Delhi, Bahadur Shah Zafar was declared the leader of the uprising. After driving the British out of Delhi, armies from various princely states gathered there. But soon, a challenge arose—arranging food and wages for the soldiers. The emperor’s treasury was empty. One day, he even placed his queens’ jewelry before his ministers. Seeing this, Seth Ramdas Ji’s heart melted.
He handed over his immense wealth—worth crores—to the emperor, saying, “If the motherland is saved, wealth can be earned again.” But he didn’t stop there. He arranged provisions like flour, grains, and fodder, as well as bullocks, camels, and horses for the troops. The merchant who once thrived in trade now became the backbone of the revolution.
A Spy Network and Military Organization
Seth Ramdas Ji didn’t just offer wealth; he built a formidable intelligence network and military organization. He spread a web of spies across North India, keeping tabs on every move of the British and traitors alike. He reached out to small kingdoms and princely states, urging them to unite. His foresight and organizational skills left even British officers astounded. His role in the rebellions of Meerut and Delhi is considered significant.
Once, he had barrels of poisoned liquor placed in Chandni Chowk, which the British soldiers drank and fell unconscious. This act of ingenuity forced the British to realize that ruling India would require eliminating Ramdas Ji.
A Cruel End and Martyrdom
The British captured Seth Ramdas Ji through deceit. The manner of his death was so brutal that it sends shivers down the spine. First, he was tied to a pole with ropes, then hunting dogs were unleashed upon him, tearing at his living flesh. In a half-dead state, he was hanged in front of the police station in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk. Smiling as he faced the gallows, he sacrificed his life for his motherland.
In the Words of Historian Tarachand
Renowned historian Tarachand wrote in his book History of the Freedom Movement, “Seth Ramdas Gudawale was the wealthiest man in North India. According to the British, he possessed countless pearls, diamonds, jewels, and vast treasures.” Yet, Tarachand also notes that revolutionaries like Seth Ramdas have vanished from the pages of history.
A Tribute to Valor
Seth Ramdas Ji Gudawale’s martyrdom leaves us with a question—can we ever repay the debt of his sacrifice? His wealth, wisdom, and ultimate sacrifice remind us of the immense cost of freedom. This is not just the story of a merchant but of a true patriot who gave everything for his motherland.
