150th Birth Anniversary of Birsa Munda
17.11.2025
150th Birth Anniversary of Birsa Munda
Context
PM and Home Minister honoured Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his 150th birth anniversary, observed nationwide as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.
About 150th Birth Anniversary of Birsa Munda
Who He Was?
Birsa Munda (1875–1900) was a revered tribal freedom fighter, social reformer, and leader of the Munda community. Known as भगवान and धरती आबा for safeguarding tribal land, forests, and identity.
Birth & Region
Born in Ulihatu, present-day Khunti (Jharkhand), in the Chhotanagpur plateau. Lived in Chalkad and Kurumbda; studied in Salga and later Chaibasa.
Contributions to the Munda Movement (Ulgulan)
- Led Ulgulan against British exploitation, land alienation, forced labour, and missionary interference.
- Resisted destruction of Mundari Khuntkatti land system and exploitative thikadars.
- United Munda, Oraon, and Kharia tribes for land rights and self-rule.
- Promoted social reforms: anti-alcoholism, hygiene, and cultural revival.
- Gave the slogan: “अबुआ राज सेतर जना, महारानी राज टुडु जना.”
- Adopted guerrilla tactics against colonial establishments.
Unique Facts About Birsa Munda
- Born Daud Munda after temporary family conversion to Christianity.
- Founded the socio-religious sect Birsait and gained a spiritual following.
- Talented musician, active in village akhra traditions.
- Died at 25 in Ranchi jail; Ulgulan led to the Chhotanagpur Tenancy Act, 1908, protecting tribal land.
- Inspired books, films, folk songs; a 150-ft statue stands in Jharkhand.