Awadh, also known as Oudh, was often referred to as the ‘nursery of the Bengal Army’ because it was a major region from where sepoys (Indian soldiers) were recruited for the British East India Company’s army. The region had a significant military presence due to its strategic location and the influence of the Nawabs of Awadh, who had strong ties with the British. Many sepoys from Awadh served in various parts of the British-controlled territories in India, including during the revolt of 1857.
Awadh's importance in supplying sepoys to the British military was one of the factors leading to the region’s significant role in the Revolt of 1857, which began as a mutiny by the sepoys against British rule.