The Union Cabinet of India has greenlit the commemoration of tribal freedom fighters through the establishment of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas on November 15th. This initiative will become an annual tradition and forms part of the year-long celebration marking India’s 75th Independence Anniversary.
About Janjatiya Gaurav Divas
Janjatiya Gaurav Divas aims to honour tribal communities’ efforts in preserving cultural heritage and promoting Indian values such as national pride, valour, and hospitality. The day is set aside to appreciate the numerous tribal movements that were conducted across different regions of India against British colonial rule. Some of these tribal communities included the Tamars, Santhals, Khasis, Bhils, Mizos, and Kols, among others.
Commemorating Tribal Leaders
In addition to the annual celebration, a museum dedicated to tribal freedom fighters will be inaugurated in Ranchi by the Prime Minister. This date was chosen because it coincides with the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, a revered freedom fighter celebrated by tribal communities across India.
Tribal Freedom Fighters: A Closer Look
Understanding the power of their sacrifices and the impact they had on the fight for independence, here’s a closer look at some of the celebrated tribal freedom fighters:
Birsa Munda: Born on 15th November 1875, Birsa Munda belonged to the Munda tribe. He instigated a crucial millenarian movement during the British rule spanning across modern-day Jharkhand and Bihar.
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh: Hailed as Sonakhan’s Pride in Chhattisgarh, Singh looted grain stock from traders and distributed them amongst the poor post the 1856 famine. His sacrifice turned him into a tribal leader, making him the first martyr from Chhattisgarh in the 1857 independence struggle.
Shri Alluri Seetha Ram Raju: Born on 4th July 1897, Raju led the Rampa Rebellion against the British, rallying people of Visakhapatnam and East Godavari districts to revolt. He was motivated by the revolutionaries of Bengal to challenge the British rule.
Rani Gaidinliu: A revered spiritual and political leader of the Naga tribe, Gaidinliu led a massive revolt against British rule in India. She joined the Heraka religious movement at just 13 and regarded the Naga people’s journey to freedom as part of India’s larger movement for freedom.
Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu: Two years before the Great Revolt of 1857, two Santhal brothers, Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu, led a rebellion against the British. They rallied 10,000 Santhals, taking an oath to drive away the British from their homeland. Their sisters Phulo and Jhano also played an active part in the rebellion.
Conclusion
The Janjatiya Gaurav Divas is a testament to the bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment of India’s tribal freedom fighters. Their legacy lives on, inspiring new generations and fostering national pride and unity. This annual commemoration serves as a reminder of their contribution and a celebration of their valour.