Sannyasi and Fakir Uprisings in Bengal

A sect of Sannyasis rose in rebellion against the British during and after the great Bengal famine of 1770.The immediate cause of this upsurge was the restriction imposed by the British upon the pilgrims visiting holy places and shrines. These sannyasis aided by common people raided the English factories and settlements. They also collected huge contributions. All these led to a number of conflicts between the rebels and the company's forces.

At the same time a large number of Fakirs or Muslim mendicants revolted against the British under the leadership of Majnu Shah and Cheragh Ali.They attacked English factories and looted their goods, arms and money. There were number of battles fought between the Fakirs and the British troops in which the latter suffered heavy losses.