Janjatiya Gaurav Divas- Birth Anniversary of Birsa Munda

Table of Contents

Janjatiya Gaurav Divas- Relevance for UPSC Exam

GS Paper 1: Indian History- Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues.
- The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country.

Recently, the Union Cabinet has approved the declaration of 15th November as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas dedicated to the memory of brave tribal freedom fighters.
- The date is the birth anniversary of Sri Birsa Munda who is revered as Bhagwan by tribal communities across the country.
- Janjatiya Gaurav Divas will help coming generations know about their sacrifices for the country.
In 2016, the Government of India has sanctioned 10 tribal freedom fighter museums across the country to promote awareness about tribal sacrifice.

India’s freedom struggle was strengthened by several movements by tribal communities such as Santhals, Tamars, Kols, Bhils, Khasis and Mizos to name a few.
The revolutionary movements and struggles organized by the tribal communities were marked by their immense courage and supreme sacrifice.
Tribal movements in different regions of the country against the British colonial rule got linked with the national freedom struggle and inspired Indians all over the country.

The declaration acknowledges the glorious history and cultural heritage of tribal communities.
The day will be celebrated every year and would recognize the efforts of the tribals for the preservation of cultural heritage and promotion of Indian values of valour, hospitality and national pride.
Tribal Freedom Fighter Museum at Ranchi where Birsa Munda breathed his last will be inaugurated.

About Sri Birsa Munda: He was born on 15th November 1875 in a Munda tribe in the Chotanagpur Plateau area.
Against British Rule: Birsa Munda fought bravely for the country against the exploitative system of the British colonial system and spearheaded the movement against British oppression giving a call for ‘Ulgulan’ (Revolution).
Birsait Sect: Birsa started the faith of ‘Birsait’ after knowing the efforts of the missionaries to convert tribals to Christianity.
- he urged the Mundas to give up drinking liquor, clean their village, and stop believing in witchcraft and sorcery.
Birsa Munda Led Munda Rebellion: Birsa Munda initiated the Munda Rebellion in the south of Ranchi in 1899-1900.
- It was also known by the name of the ‘Ulgulan’ or the ‘Great Tumult’.
- Objective: To establish Munda Raj by driving out the British.
- The Munda rebellion identified the following reasons for the misery the Mundas-
  - Hindu landlords and moneylenders snatched the land of the Munda tribes.
  - Conversion activities are taken by Missionaries in Tribal Areas.
  - Exploitative land taxation system and policies of the British government.