Raghoji Bhangare

The Raghojirao Ramjirao Bhangre (also spell Bhangaria) (8 November 1805 – 2 May 1848) was an Indian revolutionary who challenged and defied British rule in the Bombay Presidency. He was the son of Ramji Bhangare, a Koli who also resisted the British rule and was subsequently hanged in Cellular Jail. He was only ten years old when he took up arms against British rule in Maharashtra.

• Name: Raghoji Ramji Bhangare
• Profession: Patil of Deogaon, Maharashtra
• Birth place: Deogaon, Akole district, Bombay presidency, British India
• Death date: 2 May 1848 (aged 42)
• Cause of death: Hanged by British government
• Burial place: Umbhrai, Shahapur taluka, Thane, Maharashtra
• Nationality: Indian
• Other names: Raghuji Bhangare, Raghoji Koli, Raghoji Patil
• Occupation: Agriculturist
• Rebellious years: 1844 - 1848
• Era: British Era
• Movement: Indian Independence movement
• Titles: Koli Bandkari of Rebellion, Patil of Deogaon, Chief of Bhangre clan of Kolis, Nayak of Rebels
• Predecessor: Ramjirao Manajirao Bhangare
• Partner: Ramaji Kirve
• Family: Bapuji Bhangare (brother)

Raghoji Bhangare turned to rebellion after his mother was tortured by British officials with the assistance of some Marwadis of village.

The Indian social activist, thinker, anti-caste social reformer and writer from Maharashtra Jyotirao Phule may have been inspired by the revolts of Raghoji Bhangre, among others. The revolts of Raghoji Bhangare are considered as highly significant in the history of Maharashtra. Compared to the revolts made by Raghoji Bhangre, the other revolts were not very significant though they continued to take place until 1946-47.

Raghoji Bhangre became known by the honorific title Bandkari for his exploits. Bandkari means leader of rebellions in the Marathi language.

Early life

Raghoji was born in 1805 to Ramjirao Bhangre in Deogaon of Akole in Western Ghat of Maharashtra in British India. His family members included Mahadev Koli who was active in the Indian independence movement. His father Ramji Bhangre also served as Jamadar in the British Police though he later gave up the job and revolted against British government. After death of his father, he succeeded his father as Patil of Devgam and head of family.

Revolutionary activities

In 1818, the Maratha Empire was defeated by British in the Battle of Koregaon. After that the tribals of Maharashtra took to slavery and Raghoji Rao raised against British rule in the minor age. He captured the British treasure and he was declared as an Outlaw. After that he resisted the government in Poona. In 1844, Raghoji along with his brother Bapuji Bhangre led the anti-british uprisings in Ahmednagar, Nashik and Pune district. Raghoji with his brother Bapuji Bhangre cut off the noses of british officers, Sahukars and Zamidars. After that the Captain Giberne seized a party of rebels. At 20 September 1844, Raghuji killed an officer and ten constables in the hills. In 1845, his rebellion spread over Pune, Satara and Purandar. A reward of five thousands rupees was announced for the capture of Raghoji.

Death

On 2 May 1848, Bhangre was caught by Lieutenant-General Gell and hanged.

Tribute

In 2014, The Chief minister of Maharashtra, Prithviraj Chavan inaugurated a Circuit House in Thane named after Raghoji.