2nd Queen Victoria's Own Rajput Light Infantry
The 2nd Queen Victoria's Own Rajput Light Infantry, frequently referred to as the 2nd Rajputs, stands as a distinguished chapter in the history of the British Indian Army. From its inception in the late 18th century to its eventual integration into the modern Indian military structure, the regiment earned a reputation for steadfastness and bravery across multiple continents.
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Key Facts
- Active Period: 1798–1922.
- Origin: Raised by the British East India Company as a battalion of the 15th Regiment of Bengal Native Infantry.
- Key Distinction: Recognized for "unexampled fidelity" during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
- Final Evolution: Amalgamated into the 7th Rajput Regiment in 1922; later became part of the Brigade of the Guards.
- Notable Command: King Edward VII served as Colonel-in-Chief starting in 1904.
Early History and Formation
The regiment's origins date back to 1798, when the British East India Company established a second battalion for the 15th Regiment of Bengal Native Infantry (BNI). In its early years, the unit saw significant action in India, fighting at Delhi, Laswari, Deeg, and Bharatpur. Due to its exceptional service under General Lake during the Second Anglo-Maratha War, the battalion was honored with an honorary colour, requiring an additional jemadar (a junior commissioned officer) to carry it.
By 1828, the battalion transitioned into an independent entity, becoming the 31st Bengal Native Infantry. This new status led to its first major independent campaign in 1839 during the First Anglo-Afghan War, highlighted by the capture of the Kalat fortress on November 13.
Loyalty During the Indian Rebellion of 1857
The 31st Bengal Native Infantry distinguished itself during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. While a vast majority of the Bengal Army mutinied against British rule, the regiment remained loyal. They fought in the Central India Campaign, where they successfully defended the Sangor fort under siege for six months.
This loyalty was formally recognized by the Governor General, who praised the regiment's fidelity. Following the disbandment of mutinous units, the 31st became the second most senior regiment in the Bengal Army. In 1876, coinciding with Queen Victoria becoming Empress of India, the unit was renamed the 2nd (Queen's Own) Regiment of Bengal Native Light Infantry.
Global Engagements and World War I
As the British Empire expanded its reach, the 2nd Rajputs were deployed to various international conflicts. They served in the Second Afghan War and were part of the international coalition that intervened in the Boxer Rebellion in China in 1900.
The First World War saw a significant expansion of the regiment, with a second battalion raised in 1917 and a third in 1918. During this era, the regiment operated across diverse theaters, including Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Afghanistan.
Regimental Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Branch | Army (Infantry) |
| Colors | Red; faced buff (1879 blue) |
| Regimental Badge | Brass bugle with the number 2 between the strings (until 1923) |
| Major Campaigns | Afghanistan, Burma, China, Central India, Punjab |
| Successor Unit | 7th Rajput Regiment (1922) > Brigade of the Guards |
Amalgamation and Modern Legacy
In 1922, the Indian Army underwent a major reorganization. The 2nd Rajputs were amalgamated with the 4th, 7th, 8th, 11th, and 16th Rajputs to form the 7th Rajput Regiment. The 2nd Rajputs became the 1st Battalion of this new regiment, retaining their original title as a subtitle.
Following India's independence, the battalion's prestige continued to grow. It was eventually elevated to "Guard" status and transferred to the Brigade of the Guards as its 4th Battalion.
Notable Members
- Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa
- Field Marshal Sir Henry Wylie Norman
- General Sir Cyril Dupré Noyes
- Major-General Corrie Hudson
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the 2nd Rajput Light Infantry formed?
The unit was originally raised in 1798 as a second battalion for the 15th Regiment of Bengal Native Infantry.
Why was the regiment praised during the 1857 Rebellion?
The regiment was praised for its "unexampled fidelity" because it did not join the mutiny and instead defended the Sangor fort for six months during the Central India Campaign.
What happened to the regiment in 1922?
It was amalgamated with five other Rajput regiments (the 4th, 7th, 8th, 11th, and 16th) to form the 7th Rajput Regiment.
Which international conflicts did the regiment participate in?
The regiment served in the First and Second Anglo-Afghan Wars, the Boxer Rebellion in China (1900), and campaigns in Burma, Egypt, and Mesopotamia during World War I.
What is the regiment's connection to the modern Indian Army?
After India's independence, the battalion was transferred to the Brigade of the Guards, where it serves as the 4th Battalion.