Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov 29 :In India’s rich history, the name of BhagwanBirsaMunda is etched as a brave warrior and social reformer who dedicated his life to the upliftment and rights of tribal society. Every year on November 15, his birth anniversary is celebrated as JanjatiyaGauravDiwas in India. This day is not only a remembrance of his martyrdom and contributions but also a celebration of the ancient cultural heritage, continuous struggles, and self-respect of the tribal community.
Life and Struggle of BhagwanBirsaMunda
BhagwanBirsaMunda was born on November 15, 1875, in the village of Ulihatu in Jharkhand to a humble Munda family. His life was filled with hardships, and he faced economic struggles from a young age. Social inequality, oppression, and the continuous exploitation of tribes by foreign rulers filled BirsaMunda’s heart with a spirit of rebellion. He fought against the Zamindari system imposed by the British, forced conversions, and atrocities on the traditional lives of tribal people.
Leadership of the Ulgulan Movement
BirsaMunda led the “Ulgulan” tribal uprising against British rule and their atrocities. “Ulgulan” means ‘Great Rebellion.’ The movement aimed to raise voices against the land policies imposed by the British, forced conversions, and laws interfering with the traditional lifestyles of tribes. Under BhagwanBirsaMunda’s leadership, this movement created waves of public revolution throughout the region, earning him titles like “DhartiAaba” or “Dharti Pita”.
Contribution as a Social Reformer
BhagwanBirsaMunda was not only a freedom fighter but also a great social reformer. He raised awareness against prevalent evils in tribal society such as superstitions, caste discrimination, substance abuse, and other social ills. He emphasized the importance of education to his followers and preached unity. BirsaMunda also initiated a religious movement called “Birsait,” encouraging his followers to adhere to purity of conduct, simplicity, and truth.
Establishment of JanjatiyaGauravDiwas
In 2021, the Central Government declared November 15 as JanjatiyaGauravDiwas in honor of BhagwanBirsaMunda’s birth anniversary. The purpose is to honor the contributions of BirsaMunda and other tribal freedom fighters. Various programmes are organised across the country on this day to understand and celebrate the cultural heritage, traditions, and glorious history of tribal society. This day serves as an important opportunity to remember the struggles and contributions of tribal communities.
Contribution to Indian Independence Movement
BhagwanBirsaMunda’s contribution to the Indian independence movement is unparalleled. He was not only a leader for his local tribes but also inspired other tribal communities to organize and actively participate in the freedom struggle through his “Ulgulan” movement. Although he attained martyrdom at a young age of just 24 years and 7 months on June 9, 1900, his legacy lives on in the hearts of tribal communities as he is remembered as a great revolutionary leader.
Importance of JanjatiyaGauravDiwas
The significance of JanjatiyaGauravDiwasextends beyond merely remembering BhagwanBirsaMunda’s contributions. It is also a day to celebrate the cultural and historical identity of tribal society. Tribal communities have played an essential role in India’s history. This GauravDiwashonors their cultural heritage, struggles, and achievements. It serves as a reminder for all Indians that tribal society is an integral part of India’s culture whose contributions must always be cherished.
BhagwanBirsaMunda’s life is a source of inspiration that imparts messages of courage, struggle, and commitment to social justice. JanjatiyaGauravDiwasencourages us to remember his teachings, patriotism, and struggles while remaining sensitive to the rights and dignity of tribal communities. BhagwanBirsaMunda’s contributions to protecting tribal pride and rights will always be immortalized; JanjatiyaGauravDiwassymbolizes our gratitude, respect, and tribute to him.
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