Why in the News?
Recently, the nation observed Janjatiya Gaurav Divas to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of the freedom fighter and tribal leader Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
About Birsa Munda:
- Early Life:
- Born in Ulihatu Khunti district, Jharkhand in 1875.
- Belonged to the Munda tribe of the Chhotanagpur plateau area, present day Jharkhand.
- Teachings and Beliefs:
- Monotheism: Founded a new sect known as the Birsait, Birsa preached belief in one God.
- Revival of Tribal Faith: He rejected the influence of Christian missionaries and sought to reform traditional Munda religious practices.
- Moral Discipline: He emphasized cleanliness, hard work, avoiding alcohol and purity in personal and social life.
- Death & Legacy:
- Died in Ranchi Jail due to cholera in 1900.
- He is remembered as Bhagwan (God) and was given the title of Dharti Aaba (Father of Earth).
- In honor of his legacy, November 15 is celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (Tribal Pride Day) across India.
- Contribution to Colonial Resistance:
- Munda Rebellion: Birsa Munda launched the Ulgulan (or Great Tumult) movement (Munda rebellion) in 1899.
- Slogan against British Raj: "Abua Raj Setarjana, Maharani Raj Tundujana" (Let the kingdom of the queen be ended and our kingdom be established.)
About Munda Rebellion
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