150th Birth Anniversary of Birsa Munda

Syllabus: Modern History (Tribal Freedom Fighter) (UPSC Prelims)
Source: Live Mint

Context

India celebrated the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, a revered tribal freedom fighter. The day is observed nationwide as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.

Who Was Birsa Munda?

• Birsa Munda (1875–1900) was a tribal freedom fighter, social reformer, and leader of the Munda community.
• Tribals honour him as “Bhagwan” and “Dharti Aaba” (Father of the Earth) for protecting land, forests, and tribal identity.

Birth and Early Life

• Born in Ulihatu village, present-day Khunti district, Jharkhand, in the Chhotanagpur plateau.
• Grew up in Chalkad and Kurumbda; studied in Salga and Chaibasa.

Role in the Munda Movement (Ulgulan)

• Led the Ulgulan (Great Tumult) against British rule and exploitative landlords.
• Opposed:
  • Land alienation
  • Forced labour (begari)
  • Missionary interference
  • Destruction of the traditional Khuntkatti land system
• United Munda, Oraon, and Kharia tribes to fight for land rights and self-governance.
• Promoted social reforms: no alcohol, clean living, rejection of superstition, revival of tribal culture.
• Famous slogan: “Abua Raj sete jana, Maharani Raj tundu jana” (End British rule, establish our own).
• Used guerrilla tactics to target oppressive British institutions.

Unique Facts About Birsa Munda

• Born Daud Munda after his family briefly converted to Christianity.
• Founded the Birsait religious movement, gaining spiritual followers.
• Talented musician — played the flute and tuila; participated in village akhra dances.
• Died at age 25 in Ranchi jail in 1900.
• His struggle contributed to the Chhotanagpur Tenancy Act, 1908, protecting tribal land rights.
• His legacy lives through folk songs, films, literature, and a 150-feet statue in Jharkhand.