New Delhi, June 9: On June 9, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan paid tribute to tribal freedom fighter and social reformer Birsa Munda on his death anniversary. He emphasized that Munda’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Birsa Munda is regarded as one of India’s most prominent tribal leaders and freedom fighters. Born in 1875 in present-day Jharkhand, he led the historic ‘Ulgulan’ or ‘Great Rebellion’ against British colonial rule and the exploitative land policies imposed on tribal communities.
In a post on social media, Vice President Radhakrishnan stated, “On the martyrdom day of Lord Birsa Munda, I pay my respects to the revered ‘Dharti Aaba,’ whose life symbolizes courage, self-respect, and unwavering commitment to justice. Through the historic ‘Ulgulan,’ he ignited the spirit of resistance against oppression and inspired tribal communities to defend their rights, identity, and dignity.”
He added, “It is a deep personal honor for me to have the opportunity to pay homage at his sacred birthplace ‘Ulihatu’ on the very first day of my tenure as the Governor of Jharkhand and recently as the Vice President of India.”
Notably, through his movement, Birsa Munda united thousands of tribal people to fight for their rights, identity, and ownership of traditional lands. While his movement was primarily confined to the Chotanagpur region, Munda’s legacy has had a significant impact in several states, including Assam. The state is home to a large tribal population, including the ‘T-Tribe’ (tribal communities working in tea gardens), whose ancestors migrated there from the Chotanagpur plateau during colonial times.
Many members of Assam’s tea garden community trace their roots back to the areas where Birsa Munda fought, and they continue to view him as a symbol of resistance, respect, and empowerment. In recent years, his contributions to tribal rights have gained considerable recognition.
The central government has declared November 15, Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary, as ‘Tribal Pride Day’ to honor the contributions of tribal freedom fighters and celebrate India’s rich tribal heritage.
Political leaders, social organizations, and tribal groups across Assam have also paid tribute to this great leader, remembering his role in the fight for the rights of indigenous and marginalized communities.
Birsa Munda passed away at the young age of 25 in British custody on June 9, 1900, but his legacy continues to inspire generations across the country.
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