Who among the following was known during the days of the Revolt of 1857 as 'Danka Shah'?

Maulavi Ahmadullah Shah, also known as the Maulavi of Faizabad, was a prominent leader during the Revolt of 1857. He was popularly known as 'Danka Shah' (the Maulavi with the drum) because he moved in a palanquin with drumbeaters (danka) in front and followers at the rear while preaching [1]. Educated in Hyderabad, he traveled across villages in 1856 preaching 'jehad' against British rule and urging people to rebel [1]. His influence was so significant that British officials panicked as thousands followed him, viewing him as an inspired prophet [1]. He played a crucial role in the resistance in the Awadh region and was known as the 'Lighthouse of Rebellion'. He fought alongside other leaders like Nana Sahib and Kunwar Singh until he was killed in June 1858.

Sources

1. [1] THEMES IN INDIAN HISTORY PART III, History CLASS XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 10: REBELS AND THE RAJ > Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah > p. 263