Maniram Dewan stands as one of the most prominent figures in the history of Assam’s resistance against British colonial rule. Born as Maniram Dutta Barua in 1806, he was the first Indian to establish tea gardens in Assam. He initially served the British administration and held the title of Dewan. However, his growing discontent with British exploitation and oppression led him to join the Revolt of 1857 in Assam. His sacrifice and patriotism continue to inspire generations of people across the state.
The Revolt of 1857 had a distinct character in Assam compared to other parts of India. While the rebellion in North India was led by sepoys and displaced rulers, in Assam it was shaped by local leaders like Maniram Dewan and Piali Barua. Maniram secretly communicated with rebel forces and tried to restore the Ahom monarchy by placing Kandarpeswar Singha on the throne. The British discovered his conspiracy and arrested him. He was subsequently tried and hanged on 26 February 1858 at Jorhat. His martyrdom became a turning point in Assam’s freedom movement and awakened political consciousness among the people of the region.
30 MCQs on Maniram Dewan and the Revolt of 1857 in Assam – History of Assam
1. What was the original name of Maniram Dewan?
2. In which year was Maniram Dewan born?
3. Maniram Dewan was the first Indian to establish which type of plantation in Assam?
4. On which date was Maniram Dewan hanged by the British?
5. Where was Maniram Dewan executed?
6. Whom did Maniram Dewan want to place on the throne of Assam?
7. Who was hanged along with Maniram Dewan on the same day?
8. Which British official did Maniram Dewan initially work under in Assam?
9. Maniram Dewan belonged to which royal family of Assam?
10. Where were the tea gardens of Maniram Dewan located?
11. The Revolt of 1857 in Assam was mainly centered around which area?
12. To whom did Maniram Dewan write secret letters seeking help during the Revolt of 1857?
13. What title was given to Maniram by the Ahom king?
14. Which company was Maniram Dewan associated with before starting his own tea gardens?
15. Who betrayed Maniram Dewan’s conspiracy to the British?
16. What was the main objective of Maniram Dewan during the Revolt of 1857?
17. Maniram Dewan was born at which place?
18. Which regiment was involved in the mutiny at Dibrugarh during 1857?
19. Kandarpeswar Singha was the descendant of which Ahom king?
20. What happened to Kandarpeswar Singha after the failure of the revolt?
21. Which British Commissioner was in charge of Assam during the Revolt of 1857?
22. Maniram Dewan submitted a petition to which authority complaining about British oppression?
23. In which year did Maniram Dewan resign from the Assam Tea Company?
24. How many tea gardens did Maniram Dewan own?
25. Where was Maniram Dewan arrested by the British?
26. Which of the following was NOT a reason for Maniram Dewan’s discontent with the British?
27. What was the name of the tea garden established by Maniram Dewan at Jorhat?
28. The Revolt of 1857 in Assam is also referred to as what?
29. Maniram Dewan had served as Dewan to which Ahom king?
30. What was the impact of Maniram Dewan’s execution on Assam’s freedom movement?
Conclusion
Maniram Dewan remains one of the most revered freedom fighters in the history of Assam. His transformation from a loyal servant of the British to a determined revolutionary reflects the deep resentment that colonial policies generated among the people of Assam. The Revolt of 1857 in Assam may not have achieved military success, but it planted the seeds of resistance that grew stronger in the decades that followed. His courage continues to be celebrated across the state.
For students preparing for APSC, UPSC, and other competitive examinations, a strong grasp of Maniram Dewan's role in the 1857 revolt is highly beneficial. These 30 MCQs cover the major facts and events associated with his life and the rebellion in Assam. Regular practice of such questions will strengthen your hold on Assam history and improve your performance in examinations. We encourage you to revisit these questions and study the historical context behind each answer for a thorough preparation.