Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to Birsa Munda on his death anniversary on June 9.

Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar and Chief Minister Hemant Soren also paid floral tributes to the tribal icon, saying he sacrificed his life for the country’s freedom struggle.

Who was Birsa Munda?

• Born on November 15, 1875 as part of the Munda tribe, Birsa Munda played a crucial role in the liberation of his community who were exposed to the atrocities of the British. 

• The Mundas inhabited fertile lands in the Chotanagpur region which were used for cultivation. To take their land, the British connived with the local zamindars and tried to force them into bonded labour.

• In 1895, the locals turned to Birsa Munda, who is also known as ‘Dharti Abba’ (Father of the Earth) for help.

• He successfully rallied people across the region to take on the British Empire which led to his arrest. However, the two years of imprisonment only made him more determined. 

• In 1899, Birsa Munda led a revolt called ‘Ulgulan’ (Great Tumult). A series of attacks were unleashed on the British using guerrilla warfare tactics.

• However, the rebellion did not last long. The British attacked the tribal leaders and captured Birsa Munda. 

• Birsa Munda died on June 9, 1900 at the age of 25.

Janjatiya Gaurav Divas

• Since 2021, Janjatiya Gaurav Divas has been celebrated with great zeal across India to honour the sacrifices of tribal freedom fighters. 

• The tribal communities played a vital role in India’s freedom struggle, with movements like those led by the Santhals, Tamars, Kols, Bhils, Khasis, and Mizos, among others. 

• Tribal movements against British rule, like the Ulgulan led by Birsa Munda, were not only pivotal in challenging British oppression but also inspired a national awakening.

• To ensure the sacrifices of these unsung heroes are never forgotten, the Indian government declared November 15 as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas. 

• The day celebrates the glorious history, culture, and heritage of tribal communities, with events held nationwide to foster unity, pride, and recognition of their significant contributions to India’s freedom and progress.

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