Have you ever heard the incredible story of how Warren Hastings, one of the most powerful British officers, was forced to flee Kashi in disguise?

This is a tale of defiance, bravery, and spiritual power—one that history books often fail to highlight. But the people of Kashi have never forgotten the heroic resistance of Maharaja Chet Singh and the role of the revered saint Baba Keenaram.

The Rise of Conflict

In 1770, after the passing of Maharaja Balwant Singh, his son Chet Singh took the throne of Banaras. At first, things were peaceful, and Kashi continued to flourish under his rule. However, in 1775, the British East India Company took control of Kashi from the Nawabs of Awadh, and everything changed.

By 1781, Warren Hastings, the British Governor-General, had imposed an outrageous tax of 50 lakh rupees. He accused Chet Singh of betraying British rule and tarnishing their reputation. When the Maharaja refused to comply, Hastings took a drastic step—he ordered his arrest, thinking that it would be an easy victory. But Kashi had different plans for him.

The Revolt That Shook the British

On August 15, 1781, British officer Markham entered the fort and placed Chet Singh under arrest. Little did he know, the people of Kashi would not tolerate such an insult to their king. Thousands of warriors and citizens rushed to the fort, weapons in hand, ready to fight for their land.

A fierce battle broke out. Swords clashed, and within half an hour, the British forces—including Markham and Lieutenant Village—were wiped out. Hastings, terrified and completely caught off guard, had no choice but to flee.

But he didn’t just run—he was so desperate to escape that he disguised himself as a woman and hid among the common folk, sneaking his way to Chunar Fort. It was one of the most humiliating defeats ever suffered by the British in India.

The Prophecy of Baba Keenaram

But this was not just a simple war. The legend of Baba Keenaram, a saint of the Aghori sect, played a crucial role in this story.

According to legend, the king of Kashi once disrespected Baba Keenaram, and in return, the saint cursed the dynasty. His prophecy came true when Raja Chet Singh lost his kingdom and was forced into exile.

The Fall of Congress in Kashi

After the British were kicked out of the country completely, the government, so-called "Indian National Congress," failed to improve the infrastructure of Kashi due to various other reasons.

However, their dominance did not last forever. The party suffered a major defeat in the 1989 elections, marking the end of its decades-long stronghold.

Timeline of Events

• 1770 - Maharaja Balwant Singh passes away; Chet Singh ascends the throne of Banaras.
• 1775 - Banaras comes under the control of the East India Company.
• 1781 - Warren Hastings imposes heavy taxes; Chet Singh refuses to pay.
• August 15, 1781 - British forces arrest Chet Singh, triggering a massive revolt.
• After 8hr Battle - Hastings flees disguised as a woman to Chunar Fort.
• October 5, 1978 - Birth of Baba Siddharth Gautam Ram, the 11th Peethadheeshwar.
• 1989 - Congress loses its stronghold in Kashi; political landscape shifts.

The story of Kashi is not just one of political power—it is a story of resistance, spiritual energy, and the unwavering will of its people.

Thank you for reading, bru.