The Relief of Lucknow', 1857 (c1850s). The siege of Lucknow was one of the major engagements of the uprising against British rule in India which began in 1857. Lucknow itself was besieged by mutineers for 87 days from the outbreak of the mutiny until a column commanded by General Sir Henry Havelock broke through on 25th September 1857. Havelock's force was insufficient to break the siege however, and Lucknow was once again surrounded until finally relieved by another, larger force led by General Sir Colin Campbell on 25th November 1857.