Central Idea

The article highlights the historical significance of Meerut, a city in western Uttar Pradesh.
Alamgirpur, the easternmost settlement of the Harappa civilization, is located in Meerut and has archaeological importance.
However, Meerut gained fame for its role in India’s First War of Independence on May 10, 1857, also known as the Indian Mutiny or Revolt.

Meerut: Historical origins and name

Meerut has historical origins, possibly deriving its name from Mayarashtra, the capital of Mayasura, who was Ravana’s father-in-law.
The archaeological site of Vidura-ka-tila, located northeast of Meerut, is believed to be the remains of Hastinapur, the ancient capital of the Kauravas and Pandavas from the Mahabharata.
Meerut was ruled by the Scindias before being ceded to the British in 1803, which eventually paved the way for the British exit from India.

The rebellion in Meerut was sparked by the introduction of the Enfield rifle and the use of cartridges rumored to be greased with a mixture of cow and pig fat.
Sepoys (Indian soldiers) who refused to use the cartridges were punished and stripped of their uniforms.
This incident led to a rebellion among the sepoys and a call for the uprising against British rule.

On May 10, 1857, while the European residents of Meerut were attending church, the sound of musketry and columns of smoke signalled the revolt of the native troops.
The sepoys, having revolted, marched towards Delhi, considering it the power center and the capital of Mughal India.

Meerut played a crucial role in the Indian Mutiny, serving as the starting point for the rebellion that spread across the country.
The mutiny in Meerut inspired and influenced the subsequent events of the uprising.
D. Savarkar later referred to the Mutiny as the First War of Independence.