On the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, a day dedicated to celebrating the cultural heritage and contributions of India’s tribal communities, Hon’ble Vice-President, Jagdeep Dhankhar, paid heartfelt floral tributes to the legendary tribal freedom fighter, ‘Dharti Aaba’ Birsa Munda. This poignant homage took place on Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary at the hallowed grounds of the Parliament House.
Birsa Munda, born on November 15, 1875, and departing from this world on June 9, 1900, holds a revered place in Indian history as a tribal independence activist and folk hero. A member of the Munda tribe, Birsa played a pivotal role in spearheading a tribal religious millenarian movement that unfolded in the Bengal Presidency, now known as Jharkhand, during the late 19th century, a tumultuous period marked by British colonial rule.
“Educated in Salga under the tutelage of his teacher Jaipal Nag, Birsa’s life took a decisive turn when he converted to Christianity and enrolled in the German Mission School. However, disillusionment with the British intent to use education for the conversion of tribals led him to abandon his studies. This pivotal moment in Birsa’s life marked the beginning of a new chapter – the creation of a faith known as Birsait”.
The Birsait faith gained momentum, posing a significant challenge to British activities as its followers, primarily from the Munda community, grew in number. The movement, openly declaring the British as the real adversaries rather than Christian Mundas, took a stand against unfair land-grabbing practices by colonial and local authorities that undermined the traditional tribal land system.
“His courageous stand is immortalized in the portrait that hangs in the Indian Parliament Museum, a testament to his enduring influence on the struggle for freedom. As we observe Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, we reflect on the life and sacrifice of Birsa Munda, whose indomitable spirit continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the rich tapestry of India’s tribal heritage”.
