Forgotten Freedom Fighter Piyali Barua’s Legacy Back in Focus

Renewed attention is being drawn to the life and sacrifice of Piyali Barua, with historians and scholars urging greater recognition for the largely overlooked martyr of Assam’s anti-colonial struggle.
An editorial discussion on Thursday noted that while Maniram Dewan is widely remembered for his role in the 1857 uprising in Assam, Barua-who was executed alongside him-has not received comparable prominence in historical narratives. Both leaders were publicly hanged by the British on February 26, 1858, for their involvement in attempts to spread the spirit of the revolt in the region.
Researchers say Barua was a close associate and trusted aide of Maniram Dewan. He reportedly travelled across Upper Assam mobilising support and encouraging sepoys and local leaders to rise against British rule during the wider Indian Rebellion of 1857.
However, scholars point out that reliable biographical details about Barua remain limited. Some historical accounts identify his original name as Mahesh Chandra Sharma Gabhurumela Barua and trace his lineage to a respected Assamese family. The scarcity of documentation, experts argue, has contributed significantly to his marginalisation in mainstream history.
The editorial also highlighted frequent confusion between Barua and Piyoli Phukan, another anti-British figure from an earlier period. Historians emphasise that the two belonged to different eras, and the mix-up has further obscured Barua’s independent legacy.
Following the Treaty of Yandabo, which brought Assam under British control, resentment against colonial policies intensified. Maniram Dewan emerged as a key critic of British administration, with Barua joining him in organising resistance networks across the region.
Academics and civil society groups have repeatedly called on authorities and educational institutions to accord Barua due recognition as one of Assam’s early martyrs. Observers say the renewed focus forms part of a broader effort to recover and honour lesser-known contributors to India’s freedom movement.