Religious beliefs played a crucial role in shaping the events of 1857. Rumours spread that the British had conspired to destroy the caste and religion of Hindus and Muslims by mixing the bone dust of cows and pigs into the flour sold in the market. This caused widespread fear, leading sepoys and civilians to refuse touching the atta.

Furthermore, there was a strong suspicion that the British intended to convert Indians to Christianity. These fears were linked to British policies from the late 1820s aimed at "reforming" Indian society through Western education and laws like the abolition of sati. The uprising was also reinforced by the prophecy that British rule would end on the centenary of the Battle of Plassey. Ultimately, religious sentiments fostered unity, as proclamations appealed to people under the standards of both Muhammad and Mahavir.