The National Monuments Authority (NMA) has recently proposed to recognise Rajasthan’s Mangarh hilltop as a national monument. The intent behind this proposal lies in honouring the 1500 Bhil tribal freedom fighters who lost their lives there. This news has reignited discussions about the role of NMA and the importance of preserving our national monuments.
The Role of National Monuments Authority (NMA)
Established under the Ministry of Culture, the NMA operates in line with the stipulations of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains AMASR (Amendment and Validation) Act, 2010. Its primary duties revolve around the conservation and preservation of nationally significant monuments and sites.
The NMA’s responsibilities extend to managing the controlled and restricted zones surrounding centrally recognised monuments. It is also instrumental in assessing and approving permits related to construction activities in these specified areas.
National Monuments: Why they Matter?
National Monuments, as defined by the Ancient Monument and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act,1958, comprise any structure or entity—including caves, rock sculptures, inscriptions—of historical or archaeological value. The Central Government takes it upon itself to uphold the integrity of these national treasures by providing maintenance, ensuring protection, and promoting awareness.
Mangarh Hilltop: A Historical Symbol
The Mangarh Hilltop, located on the Gujarat-Rajasthan border, holds immense historical significance as it witnessed an uprising of tribal freedom fighters and subsequent massacre in 1913. The region, often referred to as the “Adivasi Jallianwala,” is associated with the tragic death of over 1500 Bhil tribal rebels during a protest led by Govind Guru against the British forces.
Given its historical relevance and the demand for recognition, there has been a call to erect a memorial at this site.
About Bhil Tribe: The Bowmen of Rajasthan
Commonly known as the bowmen of Rajasthan, Bhils are one of the most dispersed tribal communities in India. According to the 2011 Census, they constitute the largest tribe of the country.
The Bhil community is broadly divided into two categories – Central or pure Bhils and Eastern or Rajput Bhils. Predominantly dwelling in the hilly regions of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and northwestern Tripura, they enjoy the status of a Scheduled Tribe in multiple Indian states.
Historical Insights
The Bhils are believed to be part of the pre-Aryan community. The term ‘Bhil’ is speculated to have originated from the Dravidian words ‘villu’ or ‘billu,’ which translates to ‘bow.’ References to the tribe can be found in ancient Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, attesting to their deep-seated roots in Indian history.
Last Modified: February 15, 2024