Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid homage to legendary tribal leader and freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his 125th death anniversary, observed nationwide as Balidan Diwas. The Prime Minister praised Birsa Munda’s life as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to tribal rights and national pride.
In a message posted on X, PM Modi wrote, “Respectful tribute to the great hero of the freedom struggle Bhagwan Birsa Munda ji on his Balidan Diwas. He dedicated his life to the welfare of the tribal brothers and sisters and to protecting their rights. His sacrifice and dedication will always inspire the countrymen.”
Reflecting the nationwide observance, members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands paid floral tribute to Birsa Munda at his statue located at Vanvasi Kalyan Ashrama, Sri Vijaya Puram, underscoring his lasting relevance among both tribal and non-tribal communities.
Birsa Munda was born on November 15, 1875, in Ulihatu village, now part of Jharkhand. Rising to prominence in the late 19th century, he led the Ulgulan (rebellion) against British colonial rule and exploitative land policies in the Chotanagpur region. Revered as Dharti Aba or “Father of the Earth” by Adivasi communities, Birsa mobilized thousands through a socio-religious and political movement focused on restoring tribal autonomy and resisting missionary influence.
He founded the Birsait faith, declaring himself a messenger of God and calling on his people to reclaim their rights and cultural heritage. Under his leadership, tribal groups attacked colonial offices, police stations, and landlords’ estates in defiance of oppressive systems. Though the rebellion was suppressed and Birsa arrested, he died mysteriously in British custody in 1900 at the age of 25.
Birsa Munda’s sacrifice left a profound legacy, inspiring indigenous resistance and leading to later legal reforms that protected tribal land rights in India.
