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Birsa Munda: The Tribal Freedom Fighter

Last updated on October 10, 2023 by ClearIAS Team

Birsa Munda was one of the earliest tribal reformers whose actions contributed to the freedom struggle as well. Read here to know more about his life.

Birsa Munda was a tribal reformer, religious leader, and freedom fighter belonging to the Munda tribe. He amassed a large religious and informative movement against British rule in the 19th century in the erstwhile Bengal Presidency. Birsa is known for challenging the Christian missionaries and revolting against the conversion activities along with the Munda and Oraon communities.

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Table of Contents

Birsa Munda

Birth: November 15, 1875, in Ulihatu village in present-day Jharkhand, in a tribal Munda family.

During this time, the exploitative British Raj had started penetrating the deep jungles of Central and Eastern India, disrupting tribal lives living in harmony with nature.

The Britishers introduced a feudal zamindari system in the Chhota Nagpur region, destroying the tribal “Khuntkatti” agrarian system . Khuntkatti means the joint holding of land by tribals.

They also brought in the outsiders (called “dikus” by locals) like moneylenders and contractors, as well as feudal landlords who aided the British in their exploitation.

In addition, the aggressive missionary activity continued with the active support of the Raj, insulting and interfering with the religious and cultural beliefs of Adivasis.

Birsa was also converted into a Christian to join the German Mission School but soon dropped out after finding out that Britishers were aiming to convert tribals to Christianity through education. He later created a faith called ‘Birsait’ and many tribals joined his faith which became a hindrance to British conversion activities.

During the 1880s, Birsa observed the Sardari Larai movement in the region, which demanded the restoration of tribal rights through non-violent methods like sending petitions to the Raj. But the oppressive colonial regime paid no heed to these demands and the zamindari system soon reduced the tribals from landowners to laborers.

The feudal setup escalated the forced labor (veth bigari) in the forested tribal areas.

Birsa Munda took up the fight for the tribals through the religious domain and stood up against the Christian missionaries. He worked to reform religious practices, discouraged many superstitious rites, brought in new tenets, and prayers, and worked to restore tribal pride.

Birsa emphasized the importance of “sirmare firun raja jai” or “victory to the ancestral king” invoking the sovereignty of the tribals’ ancestral autonomous control over the land. He also stressed monogamy in the later stage of his life.

Birsa Munda’s Ulgulan

Birsa became a mass leader and began to be considered Bhagwan and Dharati Aba by his followers. He ignited the minds of the masses- the Mundas, Oraons, other Adivasis and non-Adivasis responded to his call and joined the “Ulgulan” (great tumult) or revolt against the colonial power and exploitative dikus (1899-1900).

Birsa asked the people not to pay any rent and attacked the outposts of feudal, missionary, and colonial authorities.

The tribals of Central and Eastern India waged an effective armed resistance against the British with traditional bows and arrows, but only the real exploiters were attacked, and the common people were not troubled.

Birsa Munda was captured by British police and lodged in jail at the age of 25, where he died in captivity on June 9, 1900.

But Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s spirited struggle did not go in vain as it compelled the British to take action on the plight and exploitation of tribals, which resulted in the Chhota Nagpur Tenancy Act of 1908 for their protection.

This Act restricted the transfer of tribal land to non-tribals and became landmark legislation for the protection of tribal rights. The British regime also took steps to abolish Veth Bigari or forced labor.

Soon after his death, the movement died, but fact remains that he was the one to mobilize the tribal community against the British and forced the colonial authorities to introduce laws protecting the land rights of the tribals.

Other tribal uprisings against colonial rule:

Also read: Popular revolts and uprisings against the British

Pahariya rebellion (1778)

This took place in Raj mahal hills (present-day Jharkhand) against the British encroachment on tribal lands. The rebellion forced the East India Company to declare their territory autonomous, which was later known as the “Daman-i-Koh” area.

Chuar uprising/ Revolt of the jungle mahal (1766-72 and 1795-1816)

Chuars were the aboriginal tribes of jungle mahal (present-day West Bengal) and they also stood up to English encroachments in their territory.

Khasi revolt (1829)

The Khasis revolted against the construction of a road from Brahmaputra valley to Sylhet by EIC, because this project increased the inflow of outsiders, threatening their tribal autonomy.

Kol mutiny (1831)

The Kols of the Chhota Nagpur area protested against their lands being transferred to outsiders by the English to increase the land revenue.

Khond uprisings (1837-56)

The Khond, Gumsar, and Kalahandi tribes of eastern ghats (present-day Odisha and Andhra Pradesh) rose against the attempt by the government to suppress human sacrifice (Mariah), the introduction of new taxes by the British, and the influx of Zamindars and sahookars (money-lenders) into their area.

Bhils and Koli uprising (1817-48)

The Bhils were concentrated in the hill ranges of Khandesh in the Maratha territories of Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. British occupation of this region in 1818 brought in the outsiders who dislocated the local community life. Similarly, the Kolis of Ahmednagar district, also challenged the British in 1829 but were quickly subdued by a large army contingent.

Ramosi uprising (1822-41)

Ramosis were the hill tribes of western ghats who were recruited as soldiers in the Maratha army. The main cause of the uprising was their disbanding by the British after the decline of Marathas. The British later pacified the movement by taking them into their armies.

Santhal revolt/ Santhal hool (1855-56)

The Santhal, who lived in the area between Bhagalpur and Rajmahal, known as Daman-i-Koh, rose in revolt; made a determined attempt to expel the outsiders (the dikus), and proclaimed the complete end of the foreign regime. The Santhal Paragana tenancy act of 1876 finally made it illegal to transfer Santhal land to a non- Santhal.

Rampa rebellion (1922)

The Rampa Rebellion against the British was organized by the tribal people of Visakhapatnam and East Godavari districts to revolt against the foreigners’ encroachment on their lands.

India’s freedom struggle was strengthened by several tribal communities such as Mundas, Oraons, Santhals, Tamars, Kols, Bhils, Khasis, Koyas, and Mizos, to name a few. The revolutionary movements and struggles organized by tribal communities were marked by their immense courage and supreme sacrifice and inspired Indians all over the country.

The government of India is now making sure that the sacrifices of such tribal movements and their leaders are not lost in history.

Birsa Munda’s legacy: Janjatiya Gaurav Divas

A portrait of Birsa Munda hangs in the Parliament museum in honor of his fight.

As part of India’s celebration of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, the Union Cabinet has approved 15th November as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas  to commemorate the brave tribal freedom fighters of the Indian independence movement.

15th November also marks the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda who is revered as God by tribal communities across India.

The Janjatiya Gaurav Divas will be celebrated every year to commemorate the efforts of the tribals in the freedom struggle and the preservation of cultural heritage and the promotion of Indian values of national pride, valor, and hospitality.

A tribal freedom fighter museum at Ranchi would also be inaugurated by the Prime Minister.

The science and technology minister inaugurated Tech नींव@ 75 on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas and highlighted the importance of harnessing the Science & tech innovation (STI) capabilities of communities in nation-building.

Also, today, there are several organizations, bodies, and structures named after him, notably Birsa Munda Airport Ranchi, Birsa Institute of Technology Sindri, Birsa Munda Vanvasi Chattravas, Kanpur, Sidho Kanho Birsha University, Purulia, and Birsa Agricultural University. The war cry of the Bihar Regiment is  Birsa Munda Ki Jai (Victory to Birsa Munda).

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Essay on Birsa Munda

Students are often asked to write an essay on Birsa Munda in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Birsa Munda

Birsa Munda was born on November 15, 1875, in Ulihatu, Bihar. He belonged to the Munda tribe. He grew up witnessing the struggles of his community under British rule.

Revolutionary Life

Birsa Munda became a tribal leader and a visionary. He stood against the British and their oppressive policies. His main aim was to uplift his people and protect their rights.

Munda Rebellion

The Munda Rebellion, led by Birsa, was a significant event. It was a revolt against British rule and their exploitation of tribal lands and resources.

Birsa Munda died in 1900, but his legacy continues. He is a symbol of tribal resistance in India. His birth anniversary is celebrated as ‘Birsa Munda Jayanti’.

250 Words Essay on Birsa Munda

Introduction to birsa munda.

Birsa Munda, a tribal leader and a folk hero, is an emblematic figure in the history of Indian independence. Born in 1875 in Ulihatu, Bihar, he led a significant tribal movement against the British colonial rule and exploitative landlords.

The Ulgulan Movement

Birsa Munda spearheaded the Ulgulan (Revolt) movement, a powerful uprising against British policies that were detrimental to the tribal people’s livelihood. The movement was not merely a protest against unjust land laws but also a spiritual awakening. Birsa, considered a prophet, aimed to restore the tribal society’s traditional structure, which had been eroded by the British.

Legacy of Birsa Munda

Birsa Munda’s legacy is indelible in India’s struggle for independence. His fight against colonial oppression made him a symbol of resistance and courage. He died young at 25 in a British jail, but his spirit lived on, inspiring future generations. Today, he is revered as a deity in Jharkhand and parts of Bihar, Orissa, and West Bengal.

In conclusion, Birsa Munda was a beacon of tribal rights and self-determination. His life and struggle are testament to the power of resistance against oppressive forces. Despite his short life, he left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire millions of Indians today.

500 Words Essay on Birsa Munda

Introduction.

Birsa Munda (1875-1900) was a prominent tribal leader, religious preacher, and freedom fighter from the Munda tribe in the Indian subcontinent. He is fondly remembered for his efforts to uplift the tribal community and his rebellion against the oppressive British colonial rule.

Early Life and Influences

Birsa was born in Ulihatu, Bengal Presidency (now in Jharkhand, India). His early life was marked by hardships, which shaped his perspective and ignited a passion for social justice. As a young man, Birsa was influenced by the Vaishnav and Sufi movements, which were instrumental in his spiritual development. His religious teachings, which combined tribal beliefs with elements of Christianity and Islam, played a significant role in uniting the tribes against British rule.

Birsa’s Socio-Religious Movement

Birsa Munda’s movement began as a socio-religious campaign, aimed at purifying the tribal society from the influences of Hindu and Christian missionaries. He preached the concept of “One God” and urged his followers to abandon superstitions and harmful social practices. This movement, known as the “Birsait” sect, sought to restore the traditional tribal way of life, which was being eroded by external influences.

The Ulgulan (“Great Tumult”) Rebellion

Birsa’s socio-religious movement gradually transformed into a political struggle against the British. His followers, known as “Mundas,” were primarily agrarian tribes who were being exploited by British-imposed feudal systems. In 1899, Birsa led the Ulgulan Rebellion, a tribal uprising against the British and their oppressive policies. The rebellion, although short-lived, shook the foundations of the British administration and highlighted the plight of the tribal communities.

Legacy and Impact

Birsa Munda died in British custody at a young age of 25, but his legacy continues to inspire. He is revered as a folk hero and a symbol of tribal resistance against oppression. His teachings and rebellion played a significant role in shaping the tribal consciousness and their struggle for rights and recognition. The state of Jharkhand, where much of his activities were centred, celebrates his birth anniversary as “Birsa Munda Jayanti.”

Birsa Munda’s life and work underscore the power of resistance against oppressive forces. His movement was not merely a rebellion against the British; it was a fight for the preservation of tribal identity, culture, and rights. His story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the tribal communities in India, their resilience, and their quest for social justice. Today, Birsa Munda stands as a beacon of empowerment and resistance, reminding us of the importance of preserving cultural diversity and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities.

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• Indian History /

Birsa Munda: Life and his Ulgulan Movement  

• Updated on  
• Feb 24, 2024

India’s struggle for independence is often associated with iconic figures such as Mahatma Gandhi , Jawaharlal Nehru or Rani Laxmibai . However, numerous unsung heroes also had a significant role in the freedom movement, one such activist and leader was Birsa Munda. Moreover, his name evokes a sense of inspiration and pride amongst the Adivasi Community. In this blog, we will dive into the life and contribution of tribal leader, Birsa Munda.

Table of Contents

• 1 Who was Birsa Munda?
• 2.1 Revolt against Landlords and Moneylenders
• 2.2 The Munda Council Formation
• 3 What was the Ulgulan Movement?
• 4 The Death of Birsa Munda
• 5 What was the Legacy of Birsa Munda?
• 6 Remembering Birsa Munda

Who was Birsa Munda?

He was born on the 15th of November 1875, in Ulihatu village, present-day Jharkhand. Birsa Munda was a fearless folk leader who dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of the tribal community. Additionally, he was a religious leader from one of the largest tribes of India, the Munda Tribe of the Chhota Nagpur Plateau area.  He was known as the “Dharthi Aba” (Father of the Earth) amongst tribals. 

What was the Early Life of Birsa Munda?

Birsa Munda belonged to a humble family. His father was Sugana Munda, a farmer and his mother was Karami Hatu, who was known for her exceptional weaving skills. Despite economic hardships, Birsa received primary education in a local missionary school. 

At the age of 15, he witnessed the atrocities faced by his community under British colonial rule and the oppression by moneylenders and landlords. Consequently, this fueled his determination to wage a fight for justice and equality.

Also Read :   20+ Greatest Indian Freedom Fighters and Their Sacrifices

Revolt against Landlords and Moneylenders

Birsa Munda organized a powerful movement against the exploitative practices of landlords and moneylenders. The Zamindari System replaced the Khuntkatti system and the Adivasis were treated as Bandhua Majdoori. Moreover, he encouraged his fellow adivasis to refrain from paying unjust taxes and demanded the return of their land. Through his charismatic and influential personality, he influenced the community and instilled a sense of unity among the Adivasis.

Birsa Munda’s Slogan was “ Abua Raj Ete Jana, Maharani Raj Tundu Jana ” which translates to ‘Let the queen’s kingdom end and our kingdom be established.’

The Munda Council Formation

In 1899, the Munda Council was established by Birsa Munda. The main objective of the council was to unite Jharkhand’s diverse tribes to resist against the British Rule. Furthermore, it also aimed to organise a self-governance system, which allowed the tribal communities to follow their traditions and customs independently. 

Also Read: Chandra Shekhar Azad: History, Family, Education, Death

What was the Ulgulan Movement?

Birsa Munda’s most significant contribution was the formation of the Ulgulan movement in 1895. It aimed at establishing a Munda Raj along with gaining independence from the British. Additionally, the movement sought to eradicate social inequalities and end the exploitative system prevalent in the region. The Ulgulan (also known as the Great Tumult) Movement shocked the British administration to such an extent that the then-commissioner announced a reward of Rs 500 for the arrest of Birsa. 

Furthermore, the British forces attacked the “Dumbari Hill” where Munda warriors were congregated and made indiscriminate and constant firing like that of Jallianwalla Bagh Massacre . Sadly, the firing killed several people and the entire hill was covered with corpses. 

According to an editorial published on the 25th of March 1900, in the newspaper, The Statesman, the death tolled around 400. Fear and panic spread over the area of “Dombari”. Moreover, the hill was later named “Topped Buru” (a mound of dead) by Mundas. Consequently, Birsa was nabbed when he was asleep with his tribal guerilla army at a forest named “Jamkopai” in Chakradharpur on the 3rd of March 1900. Thus, the movement became weak.

Also Read: Shaheed Sukhdev: Life, Death, and Freedom Struggle

The Death of Birsa Munda

Birsa was arrested on the charge of Sedition and was served life imprisonment in a jail in Ranchi. During his sentence, he suffered from cholera and passed away on the 9th of June 1900 at the age of 25.

Munda challenged the dominance of the Christian missionaries and Hindu landlords who imposed their religious beliefs on the Adivasi Community. In addition, he propagated a new religious movement called “Birsait”, which aimed at reviving the indigenous faith of the Adivasis and breaking free from the shackles of religious discrimination. 

What was the Legacy of Birsa Munda?

Additionally, Birsa’s legacy as a freedom fighter resulted in:

• Abolishment of compulsory Begar system.
• The passing of the Tenancy Act of 1903.
• Chotanagpur Tenancy Act in 1908 was passed. 

Moreover, his message of justice and equality for all regardless of their caste, creed or religion is still relevant.

Remembering Birsa Munda

Birsa Munda’s legacy is etched in history and embodies the resilience and fight for justice in our shared struggle for Independence.

• Moreover, the museum houses the symbolic statue of Birsa Munda, representing the spirit of rebellion (‘ulgulan’) and remembrance.
• It also honours other tribal freedom fighters such as Sidhu-Kanhu, Budhu Bhagat, Gaya Munda, Poto H, Jatra Bhagat, Nilambar-Pitambar, Diwa-Kisun, Bhagirath Manjhi, Ganga Narayan Singh, and Telanga Khadiya, who sacrificed their lives for Tribal independence.
• It is a ₹24,000-crore initiative aimed at guaranteeing the effective implementation of welfare schemes for the most marginalised tribal groups.
• Furthermore, this initiative seeks to empower Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) by reaching the farthest corners of India.
• Alongside this, the Prime Minister also kicked off the ‘Visksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra,’ a nationwide campaign to raise awareness and secure the widespread adoption of welfare schemes, culminating on the 26th of January 2024.

Each year, Birsa Munda Jayanti is celebrated on the 15th of November to honour the hero of Jharkhand. He is also referred to as Bhagwan Birsa Munda as he was a great freedom fighter . He symbolised the resistance of the tribals against the British. Thus, his achievements as a young tribal revolutionary have continued to be celebrated over the decades. 

Birsa Munda was a revered leader who led his fellow tribal peasants to prevent non-tribal farmers from taking over their land and turning them into bonded labourers. His people worshipped him as ‘Bhagwan’ Birsa Munda for his bravery and leadership in Jharkhand.

Birsa Munda was born on November 15, 1875, in Ulihatu village, located in Ranchi district. He received his early education from a local teacher named Jaipal Nag, who introduced him to Christianity and enrolled him in a German Mission School.

Birsa Munda was captured by the British in 1900 from Jamkopai forest in Chakradharpur. Unfortunately, he passed away on June 9th, 1900 while he was being held at the Ranchi jail. He was only 25 years old. According to the authorities, he died of cholera. However, some people doubt this explanation.

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Birsa Munda - The Tribal Hero

• AUTHOR Aditi Shah
• PUBLISHED 25 July 2018

Imagine a 25-year-old who took on an empire, left an indelible mark on tribal rights across the country and was seen as a mystic and folk hero for hundreds of thousands. Few would have achieved so much in so short a time and it’s not surprising then that Birsa Munda’s portrait hangs proudly in India’s parliament.

From the Munda tribe that still dominates the Chotanagpur Plateau region in present-day Jharkhand was Birsa. He successfully rallied people across this region to take on the British attempts to grab land in the late 19th century.

The Mundas followed Sarnaism , rooted in an animistic faith. Through centuries, they inhabited fertile lands in the region which were used for cultivation. In order to take their land, the British connived with local Zamindars , and tried to force them into bonded labour.

It was then that Birsa came into the limelight.

Born in November 1875, Birsa was a lively little boy who herded sheep and played the flute. He began his education at a German-missionaries-run school, but had to drop out, when he questioned the Jesuits’ attitude towards the Munda sardars . He returned home to Chalkad, where he came under the influence of a Vaishnav monk and began practising as a healer, leading people to believe in him as a mystic with magical powers.

– Under the influence of a Vaishnav monk, Birsa Munda came to be known as a mystic with magical powers

By this time, the East India Company had swallowed up two-thirds of India and were well on track to take over the Chotanagpur area. As part of their full takeover, they began tightening the screws on freedom. They introduced laws which disallowed the tribes from freely grazing their sheep or cattle and from collecting firewood from their own forest land. Additionally, they assigned the land-buying dikus the rights to the land that the tribal community considered common property.

In 1895, the locals turned to Birsa, whom they referred to as Dharti Abba (Father of the Earth), for help. As part of his strategy to reclaim land, Birsa persuaded his followers not to plant rice, claiming that his powers would generate the crop instead. He also declared that a fire from heaven would destroy the outsiders and the Mundas who would not gather around to support him would perish.

Thus, about 6000 tribals set up a hill-top camp along with Birsa, which attracted the attention of the colonial authorities. The British viewed this as an act of resistance against them and immediately arrested Birsa, aiming to reduce his increasing influence.

– Birsa Munda rallied his followers declaring that a fire from heaven would destroy the outsiders

By holding him in captivity, the British sought to ‘explode the myth of Birsa’s divinity and to kill the faith.’ However, the two years of imprisonment only made him more determined. After his release in 1897, Birsa began a campaign of revivalism, which invoked the sovereignty of his ancestors and demanded autonomous control over their land. The slogan was ’Sirmare Firun Raja Jai ’ or ‘Victory To The Ancestral Kings.’

The Munda revolt led by Birsa, called Ulgulan or the great tumult, started in 1899. A series of concerted attacks were unleashed on the British using guerrilla warfare tactics. Mundas with bows, arrows and slingshots attacked police officers and set fire to property.

– The Ulgulan involved a series of concerted attacks using guerrilla warfare tactics, with bows, arrows and slingshots

However, the rebellion did not last long and within a few days, the British attacked the warriors assembled at Dumbari Hills, killing hundreds of them with indiscriminate firing and Birsa was captured again a few months later. While in jail, Birsa’s health deteriorated and he died on 9th June 1900. He was only 25 years old.

Birsa’s untimely death and the trial that followed of the 300 other Mundas who had been arrested, became national news, and the struggle forced the British to enact the landmark Chotanagpur Tenancy Act in 1908, which restricted the transfer of Adivasi land to non-Adivasis.

A hundred years later, the law still holds and the many tribals across India have Birsa to thank, for allowing them to hold on to their ancestral land.

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The legend of Birsa Munda

Context : Birsa Munda was one of the tallest icons of India’s freedom movement and his contributions, along with others who were part of the struggles organised by tribal communities, must be acknowledged.

• Birsa Munda: Born on November 15, 1875, in Jharkhand, spent his childhood in abject poverty in a tribal Munda family
• Feudal zamindari system in the Chhota Nagpur region introduced that destroyed the tribal “Khuntkatti” agrarian system. It reduced the tribal from status of landowners to that of labourers.
• Outsiders as moneylenders and contractor and feudal landlords had brought in the tribal land.
• Unrelenting missionary activity with British interference in religious-cultural ethos of Adivasis.
• Feudal setup intensified the forced labour (veth bigari) in the forested tribal areas.
• Sardari Larai movement during 1880s : Birsa witnessed the movement, demanded to restore tribal rights through non-violent methods like sending petitions to the Raj. Oppressive colonial regime paid no heed to these demands. 

Birsa Munda and his contributions to Indian Freedom Struggle

• Steps taken by Birsa Munda against British exploitations:  
• Stood against missionaries who were belittling tribal life and culture.
• Worked to refine and reform religious practices , discouraged many superstitious rites.
• Brought in new tenets, prayers and worked to restore tribal pride. 
• Birsa impressed upon Adivasis the importance of “sirmare firun raja jai” or “victory to the ancestral king” : Invoked sovereignty of the tribals’ ancestral autonomous control over the land. 
• Became a mass leader : Began to be considered as “Bhagwan” and “Dharti Aba” by his followers.
• Revolt against colonial power: Birsa identified the enemy i.e., ‘oppressive Raj’ as dikus.
• Avoided to pay any rent and attacked the outposts of feudal, missionary and colonial authorities. 
• Revolted against the colonial power with traditional bows and arrows: In doing so, Birsa was careful that only the real exploiters were attacked. Birsa became an image of vitality and divinity.
• Effect – Chhota Nagpur Tenancy Act of 1908: Restricted the transfer of tribal land to non-tribals. 
• British regime also took steps to abolish Veth Bigari or forced labour.
• Icon of valour, courage and leadership to millions: Great pride in his rich culture and great traditions, and didn’t shy away from reforming his own faith wherever necessary.

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About Bhagwan Birsa Munda

Home » About Bhagwan Birsa Munda

• June 10, 2023
• GS-1 History

Focus: GS I- History

Why in News?

The Prime Minister has paid tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his punya tithi.

About Birsa Munda

• Birsa Munda (also known as Dharti Aaba (Father of Earth)) was an Indian tribal freedom fighter, religious leader, and folk hero who belonged to the Munda tribe.
• He spearheaded a tribal religious millenarian movement that arose in the Bengal Presidency (now Jharkhand) in the late 19th century, during the British Raj, thereby making him an important figure in the history of the Indian independence movement.
• The revolt mainly concentrated in the Munda belt of Khunti, Tamar, Sarwada and Bandgaon.
• Having gained awareness of the British colonial ruler and the efforts of the missionaries to convert tribals to Christianity, Birsa started the faith of ‘Birsait’.
• Members of the Munda and Oraon community joined the Birsait sect and it turned into a challenge to British conversion activities.
• Further, he urged the Mundas to give up drinking liquor, clean their village, and stop believing in witchcraft and sorcery.

Munda Rebellion

• Munda Rebellion is one of the most important tribal movements led by Birsa Munda in the south of Ranchi in 1899-1900.
• The ‘Ulgulan’ or the ‘Great Tumult’ as the movement came to be called, aimed at establishing Munda Raj by driving out the British.
• The movement identified following forces as the cause of the misery the Mundas were suffering like  The British Land policies destroying their traditional land system, Hindu Landlords and Moneylenders taking over their land, and Missionaries criticizing their traditional culture.
• On 3rd March, 1900, Birsa Munda was arrested by the British police while he was sleeping with his tribal guerilla army at Jamkopai forest in Chakradharpur (Jharkhand).
• The Munda Rebellion forced the colonial government to introduce laws so that the land of the tribals could not be easily taken over by dikus (Chotanagpur Tenancy Act, 1908).
• It showed that the tribal people had the capacity to protest against injustice and express their anger against colonial rule.

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Who was Birsa Munda?

The Prime Minister recently announced he will go to the native village of tribal icon Birsa Munda on his birth anniversary and launch a welfare scheme for the community.

About birsa munda.

• He was a folk hero and a tribal freedom fighter hailing from the Munda tribe.
• He spearheaded an Indian tribal mass movement that arose in the Bihar and Jharkhand belts in the early 19th century under British colonisation.
• Munda rallied the tribals to fight against the forceful land grabbing carried out by the British government, which would turn the tribals into bonded labourers and force them to abject poverty.
• He influenced his people to realise the importance of owning their land and asserting their rights over it.
• As a reaction to the introduction of the Zamindari system, or Permanent settlement in tribal areas, Birsa Munda in 1894 declared “Ulgulan”, or revolt, against the British and the Dikus – the outsiders.
• He created a faith called ‘Birsait’.
• Known as 'Dharti Abba' or the Earth Father, Birsa Munda stressed the need for the tribals to study their own religion and not forget their cultural roots.
• Birsa Munda propagated the principles of Hindu religion.
• He died on June 9, 1900, at age 25. 
• His struggle against exploitation and discrimination against tribals led to a big hit against the British government in the form of the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act being passed in 1908. The act restricted the passing on of land from the tribal people to non-tribals.
• In recognition of his impact on the national movement, the state of Jharkhand was created on his birth anniversary in 2000.
• November 15, the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, was declared ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas by the Central Government in 2021.

Q1) What is the Zamindari system?

Under the Zamindari system, the British East India Company appointed intermediaries known as zamindars to collect land revenue from the peasant cultivators. The zamindars were essentially landlords who were given the responsibility of collecting revenue from a particular area and, in return, were granted hereditary rights to the land. The peasants, who were the actual cultivators of the land, became tenants of the zamindars. The zamindars were expected to pay a fixed amount of revenue to the British government, and they had the right to retain any surplus revenue for themselves. It was introduced by Lord Cornwallis in 1793 through the Permanent Settlement Act.

Source: PM Modi To Visit Birsa Munda's Village In Jharkhand, Launch Schemes For Tribals

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Birsa Munda: The tribal folk hero who was God to his people by the age of 25

Despite his young age, birsa munda influenced his people to stand against the british and fight for their rights to their land, finally leading to an act being passed that turned into a major chink in the armour for the reigning british raj..

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Birsa Munda was a folk hero and a tribal freedom fighter hailing from the Munda tribe. He was a spearhead behind the Millenarian movement that arose in the Bihar and Jharkhand belt in the early 19th century under the British colonisation.

Birsa Munda as a prophet

From a Vaishnav monk, Birsa learned about Hindu religious teachings and studied the old scriptures along with the Ramayana and Mahabharata. He wore the sacred thread, worshipped the tulsi plant and gave up meat.

Birsa wanted to reform the tribal society and so, he urged them to let go of beliefs in witchcraft and instead, stressed on the importance of prayer, staying away from alcohol, having faith in God and observing a code of conduct.

Munda Rebellion of 1899-1900: Causes, Events, Significance

The Munda Rebellion, also known as the Munda Ulgulan, was one of the most prominent tribal revolts in the history of Indian Independence. It was led by Birsa Munda, a tribal freedom fighter and folk hero belonging to the Munda tribe. This rebellion took place in the Bengal Presidency (now Jharkhand) in the late 19th century, during the British Raj. It is considered an important event in the Indian independence movement.

This topic of “Munda Rebellion of 1899-1900: Causes, Events, Significance” is important from the perspective of the UPSC IAS Examination , which falls under General Studies Portion.

Background/Causes

• The Munda tribe was based in Chhota Nagpur of Jharkhand and their means of living was agriculture.
• The main causes of the rebellion were the British colonizers, zamindars and missionaries.
• The Mundas practiced the Khuntkatti System , where the whole clan jointly owned the land fit for cultivation. However, over the course of the 19th century, non-tribal people started to settle in the land of the Munda and became Jagirdars and zamindars.
• The land owned by the Mundas was seized or forfeited, and they were forced to work as landless labourers ( begari ) in the fields of these Jagirdars and zamindars. They were also exploited by high rates of interest and withholding of receipts. This led to conflicts with the “ dikus ” (outsiders).
• In addition, large forest areas were designated as protected forest by the British government and the Mundas lost their rights to these lands.
• Missionaries were also converting tribals to Christianity
• As a result, the Mundas were in dire need of a leader who could guide them in fighting for their land.

The Rebellion

• It was at this time that Birsa Munda came forward to lead the tribal movement.
• Birsa had a knowledge of the Golden Age of the Munda tribe, which existed before the arrival of the dikus, and had witnessed its transformation into an impoverished tribe.
• Birsa strived for a positive political program, with the goal of attaining both religious and political independence for the Mundas.
• The movement sought to assert the rights of the Mundas as the rightful proprietors of the soil.
• Birsa called upon the Mundas to fight against superstition, give up animal sacrifice, stop taking intoxicants, to wear the sacred thread and retain the tribal tradition of worship in the sarna or the sacred grove.
• Birsa Munda also created a new religion called ‘ Birsait ‘ which became a challenge for the British conversion activities. The religion believed in One God and encouraged them to revert to their original religious beliefs.
• Thus the rebellion was essentially a revivalist movement that aimed to purge Munda society of all foreign elements and restore its pristine character.
• By the 1890s, Birsa was mobilizing the people and inciting the tribal in the region.
• In 1894, he declared a revolt against the British and the dikus and declared the establishment of a ‘Munda Raj’.
• Under his leadership, the villagers attacked police stations, churches, and government properties in 1899.
• However, on 9 January, 1900, the rebels were defeated. Birsa was captured and died in jail. Nearly 350 Mundas were put on trial, and of them, three were hanged and 44 transported for life.

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Significance of the Movement

• Although the rebellion did not achieve its desired outcome, it had a significant impact on the tribal movement of India.
• It showed that the tribal people had the capacity to protest against injustice and express their anger against colonial rule.
• The British enacted the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act , 1908 , which restricted the transfer of tribal land to non-tribal people.
• The “Khuntkatti” rights were recognized by the British government and the practice of “Beth begari” (wageless labor) was banned. This provided legal protection for the land rights of the tribals and helped in improving their condition to some extent.
• Birsa Munda, in just 25 years of age, left a legacy behind him, and he is named among the exceptional freedom fighters of India.
• The rebellion, led by Birsa Munda, also served as a reminder of the sacrifices and devotion of the Munda tribe and their legacy continues to be followed by people in India.
• The Munda Rebellion and Birsa Munda’s contributions have been remembered and celebrated in Jharkhand and India, with the state government commemorating his birth anniversary as “Birsa Munda Jayanti” and the Indian government recognizing him as a freedom fighter and national hero. His portrait even hangs in the Indian Parliament Museum.

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Birsa Munda Essay: A Revolutionary Leader In India’s Tribal Rights Movement

Birsa Munda Essay: Birsa Munda is a name that holds immense importance in Indian history. He was a tribal leader who fought against the British rule and is remembered for his contribution to the tribal rights movement. His activism and rebellion played a significant role in shaping the Indian freedom struggle. In this blog post Birsa Munda Essay, we will explore Birsa Munda’s life and legacy, his activism and rebellion against the British, and his impact on Indian history.

Table of Contents

Birsa Munda Essay

In this blog Birsa Munda Essay, we include About Birsa Munda Essay, in 100, 200, 250, and 300 words. Also cover Birsa Munda Essay for classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and up to the 12th class and also for kids, children, and students. You can read more  Essay Writing in 10 lines about sports, events, occasions, festivals, etc… Birsa Munda Essay is also available in different languages. In this, Birsa Munda Essay, the following features are explained in the given manner.

Early Life Of Birsa Munda

Birsa Munda was born on 15th November 1875 in Ulihatu, which is now a part of Jharkhand, India. He belonged to the Munda tribe, which is one of the largest tribes in Jharkhand. Birsa’s father, Sugana Munda, was the headman of the village, and his mother, Karmi Hatu, was a farmer. Birsa had three elder brothers, who died at a young age, and two younger brothers and sisters.

Birsa’s childhood was spent in poverty, but his surroundings had a significant impact on his ideology. He grew up seeing the exploitation of the Mundas by the British, who had taken control of their land and forests. Birsa’s father was also involved in a dispute with the British over land rights, which further fueled Birsa’s anti-British sentiments.

Birsa Munda’s Activism And Rebellion

Birsa Munda’s activism began at an early age when he joined a group of Mundas who were protesting against the British. He soon emerged as a leader among the Mundas and began organizing rallies and meetings to discuss their rights.

• In 1894, Birsa Munda formed the ‘Munda Rebellion’ against the British rule. His rebellion was a result of the exploitation of the Mundas by the British, who had taken control of their land, forests, and resources.
• Birsa Munda’s tactics during the rebellion were a mix of passive resistance and guerrilla warfare. He preached non-violent resistance and urged the Mundas to refuse to pay taxes to the British.
• Birsa also encouraged the Mundas to boycott British goods and services and start using their own traditional products. Birsa’s message of self-reliance and self-governance resonated with the Mundas, and they began to see him as their leader.
• Birsa’s rebellion gained momentum, and he soon had thousands of followers. The British became wary of Birsa’s growing influence and attempted to suppress his rebellion by force.
• They launched a massive military campaign against the Mundas, which resulted in several clashes between the British troops and Birsa’s followers. Birsa was eventually captured by the British and sent to prison, where he died on 9th June 1900.

Legacy Of Birsa Munda

Birsa Munda’s impact on Indian history is immense. He was one of the first tribal leaders to fight against the British rule and demand tribal rights. Birsa’s message of self-reliance and self-governance inspired several other tribal leaders, who later took up the cause of tribal rights. Birsa Munda’s contribution to the tribal rights movement is unparalleled, and he is remembered as the ‘Tribal Gandhi’ for his non-violent resistance and message of self-reliance.

• Birsa Munda’s rebellion also had a significant impact on the Indian freedom struggle. His tactics of passive resistance and guerrilla warfare were later adopted by several other Indian leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi. Birsa’s message of self-reliance and self-governance also played a role in shaping the Indian freedom struggle.
• Today, Birsa Munda is remembered as a hero and a symbol of resistance against oppression. His legacy lives on in the hearts of the Mundas and other tribal communities, who continue to fight for their rights even today. Several institutions and organizations have been named after Birsa Munda, including universities, hospitals, and cultural centers.
• In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Birsa Munda’s life and legacy. Several books, documentaries, and movies have been made on his life, which have helped to spread awareness about his contributions to Indian history. The government of India has also recognized Birsa Munda’s contributions by issuing a postage stamp in his honor.
• Despite the recognition and awareness, there is still a long way to go in terms of securing tribal rights in India. The tribals continue to face exploitation, discrimination, and marginalization, even after seven decades of India’s independence. The government has introduced several policies and programs aimed at uplifting the tribal communities, but the implementation of these programs has been slow and inadequate.

Birsa Munda’s legacy is a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made by the tribal communities in India. It is a call to action for the government and the people of India to work towards securing the rights and dignity of these communities. It is also a reminder that the fight for justice and equality is a continuous one, and we must all work towards building a more just and equitable society.

Conclusion On Birsa Munda Essay

In conclusion, Birsa Munda’s life and legacy are an inspiration to millions of people in India and around the world. His message of self-reliance, self-governance, and non-violent resistance continues to resonate with people today. Birsa Munda’s contributions to the tribal rights movement and the Indian freedom struggle cannot be overstated. He was a true hero who fought against oppression and injustice with courage and conviction. It is our duty to remember his life and legacy and work towards building a more just and equitable society for all.

Read More: Peer Ali Khan Essay

FAQs On Birsa Munda Essay

Question 1. Who was Birsa Munda?

Answer: Birsa Munda was a tribal leader and freedom fighter who played a significant role in India’s independence movement. He led several uprisings against the British colonial rule and fought for the rights of tribal communities in India. Birsa Munda’s message of self-reliance, self-governance, and non-violent resistance continues to inspire people today.

Question 2. Why is Birsa Munda famous?

Answer: Birsa Munda is famous for his leadership in the tribal rights movement in India during the British colonial era. He led several rebellions against the British and fought for the rights of tribal communities. His legacy continues to inspire and his contributions to the Indian freedom struggle are widely recognized.

Question 3. What was the role of Birsa Munda in revolt?

Answer: Birsa Munda played a crucial role in leading several revolts against the British colonial rule in India. He organized and mobilized tribal communities to fight for their rights and resist exploitation. Birsa Munda’s leadership and strategic vision were instrumental in these uprisings and his legacy continues to inspire movements for social justice and equality today.

Question 4. What was the role of Birsa Munda in independence of India?

Answer: Birsa Munda played a significant role in India’s independence movement by leading several uprisings against the British colonial rule. His message of self-governance and non-violent resistance influenced other leaders like Mahatma Gandhi. Birsa Munda’s contributions to the Indian freedom struggle are widely recognized and he is remembered as a hero who fought for justice and equality.

Question 5. How did Birsa Munda motivate his people?

Answer: Birsa Munda motivated his people by spreading awareness about their rights and advocating for self-governance. He used his powerful oratory skills and charisma to inspire and mobilize the tribal communities to resist exploitation and fight for their rights. Birsa Munda’s message of self-reliance and non-violent resistance was a source of motivation for his followers and continues to inspire people today.

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Munda Rebellion

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Home » Modern Indian History » Other Dimensions » Tribal Movements » Munda Rebellion

Introduction

• The Munda Ulgulan (rebellion) is one of the most prominent tribal revolts in the history of Indian Independence.
• Even though the end was not favourable, it sent a message across the borders that the tribal people know how to raise their voice and to what extent.
• The Munda was a tribe based in Chhota Nagpur of Jharkhand whose means of living was agriculture.
• The cause of this uprising was similar to that of other rebellions – the British Colonizers, Zamindars and Missionaries.
• However, over the course of 19th century, the non-tribal people started to settle in the land of Munda and became Jagirdars and zamindars .
• The land owned by Mundas were seized or forfeited and they were forced to work as landless labourers in the fields of these Jagirdars and zamindars.
• They exploited these meek tribal people by charging them high rate of interest and withholding their receipts. Such practices brought the indigenous people in conflict with Dikus (outsiders).
• The landlords and Dikus (outsiders) strengthened their hold over the properties of the Mundas and demanded begari (wageless labour).
• The holders of lands were reduced to holders of plough .
• As a result, their condition got worse and they lost their grip over ancestral land.
• Thus, the people of Munda tribe were desperately in need of a person, who could show them the way and lead them to fight back for their land.

The Rebellion

• It was at this time, Birsa Munda, spearheaded the tribal movement.
• He had knowledge about the Golden Age of Munda tribe, which existed before the advent of dikus and had seen its transformation into an impoverished tribe.
• He strived for a positive political programme , his object being the attainment of independence , both religious and political.
• The movement sought the assertion of the rights of the Mundas, as the real proprietors of the soil.
• This ideal agrarian order, according to Birsa, would be possible in a world free from the influence of European official
• The rebellion, was essentially a revivalist movement , which sought to purge Munda society of all foreign elements and restore its pristine character.
• In 1894, he declared a revolt against the British and the dikus and declared to create a ‘Munda Raj’ .
• Under his leadership, the villagers attacked the police stations, churches and government properties in 1899.
• However, on 9 January, 1900, the rebels were defeated . Birsa was captured and died in jail. Nearly 350 Mundas were put on trial and of them three were hanged and 44 transported for life.

Significance of the Movement

• It showed that the tribal people had the capacity to protest against injustice and express their anger against colonial rule.
• The “Khuntkatti” rights were recognised and ”Beth begari” was banned.
• Consequently, tribals won a degree of legal protection for their land rights.
• Most importantly, Birsa Munda, in just 25 years of age, left a legacy behind him , and he is named among the exceptional freedom fighters of India.

Thus, the sacrifices, devotion and hope poured in the revolt by Munda tribe have its own legacy followed by the people of India.

• Every year , Birth anniversary of Birsa Munda is observed on November 15th.
• In recognition of his impact on the national movement, the state of Jharkhand was created on his birth anniversary in 2000.

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Essay on Birsa Munda

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Important Points : Introduction - His early life - His education - His rebellion and movement - How we remember him till now - How we honor him - Conclusion.

A person is honored only by his deeds. On the strength of his good deeds, he starts being worshiped like "God". Birsa Munda is also worshiped like a god by his good deeds.

Birsa Munda was born on 15th November 1875 in Ulihatu village of present-day Jharkhand. His mother's name was Karmi and father's name was Sugna Munda. His parents were crop-sharers. Birsa Munda belonged to Munda-tribe. He spent his childhood in the village of Chalkad. He was of strong stature.

He took great interest in studies. He passed the lower primary examination from Kundi Bartoli. He also studied in a mission school in Chaibasa. After getting higher primary level education, he started working in Gaur Peda's Swami family for livelihood. His owner's name was Anand Pandey.

In those days the opposition of German and Roman Catholics was increasing. Birsa was also affected by this. They joined the protest. The British wanted to convert the tribal agricultural system into feudal rule. They wanted to grab tribal lands. The tribal people could not stop them due to poverty and lack of power.

Birsa and some other Mundas decided to fight against it. They wanted to get the real rights of the land to the Munda people. This gave rise to many rebellions. The tribals were poor and uneducated. Birsa made them aware of their rights. He wanted to stand them up against injustice, so that they could get their due.

The British rulers did not like Birsa Munda. They wanted to stop their rebellion. Birsa Munda was a patriot. He took an active part in the freedom struggle. Initially also a reformist, later he made many rebellions against the British and started fighting, so he was arrested on 3rd February 1900. He was kept in the jail of Ranchi. There they were subjected to severe torture. Organized the tribals of an undisputed leader. Sincerely suppressed the movement, so he was arrested many times but do not panic, he kept on agitating.

Birsa fought with the British with indomitable courage and full courage. In opposition to the Nayak family of the British along with the tribal people, they organized an armed protest against the finance power. He was severely tortured in prison. He died there due to diarrhea. He died only at the age of twenty-five.

Birsa's life was an example to others. In honor of his sacrifice, his portrait has been erected in the Central Assembly Building of the Indian Parliament. Birsa Munda Airport, Birsa Munda Central Jail, Birsa Agricultural University etc. are some of the institutions named after him. Birsa's bravery and patriotism will never be forgotten. Even today he lives in the heart of every Indian.

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