Maniram Dewan – The Trailblazing Tea Pioneer Of Assam

Maniram Dewan – The Trailblazing Tea Pioneer Of Assam

Born on 17 April 1806, Maniram Dutta Barua, better known as Maniram Dewan, revolutionized Assam's economy and left a lasting mark on the region's history.

Early Life & Assam's Transitional Era

Maniram emerged during a turbulent time: the aftermath of Moamoria Rebellion, the devastation from Burmese invasions, and the collapse of Ahom sovereignty. His family, originally from Kannauj and later prominent in the Ahom court, returned to Assam under British protection following the First Anglo-Burmese War (1824–26) .

From Official to Visionary Entrepreneur

At just 22, Maniram was appointed Tehsildar and Sheristadar of Rangpur under British official David Scott . He later became Prime Minister (Borbhandar) under titular Ahom King Purandar Singha (1833–1838).

Recognizing a commercial opportunity, he introduced Assam’s native Singpho tea to British planters Robert and Charles Bruce. His initiative led to the birth of commercial tea cultivation in the region.

First Indian Tea Planter & Industrial Pioneer

Maniram made tea enterprise history by opening his own plantations at Chinamora (Jorhat) and Singlou (Sibsagar), making him the first Indian entrepreneur in Assam’s tea industry .

He was also a man of multifaceted talent—engaging in gold trade, salt production, iron smelting, pottery, boatbuilding, and brickmaking. His vision was to make Assam economically self-reliant and productive.

Clash with British and Shift to Rebellion

Facing British interference and losing property in tea disputes during the 1850s, Maniram grew resentful . When the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 erupted, he saw a chance to revive the Ahom monarchy. He plotted a rebellion with Kandarpeswar Singha and regional leaders, with backing from local sepoys .

However, the uprising was uncovered before execution. Maniram was arrested in Calcutta, tried, and publicly hanged at Jorhat Jail on 26 February 1858. His death deeply affected Assam, sparking sympathy strikes by tea workers and widespread public unrest .

Legacy & Remembrance

The legacy of Maniram Dewan lives on:

  • The Maniram Dewan Trade Centre in Betkuchi (Guwahati) was inaugurated in 2009 to honor his industrial spirit .

  • The 1963 Assamese film “Maniram Dewan”, starring the iconic song “Buku Hum Hum Kare” by Bhupen Hazarika, won the President’s Silver Award .

Conclusion

Maniram Dewan was a visionary who reshaped Assam’s economy and boldly challenged British authority. His pioneering tea ventures and courage remain integral to Assam’s history. A modern embodiment of enterprise and resistance, Maniram Dewan continues to inspire generations.