Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 05 November 2024
The 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, revered as a heroic figure of India’s tribal freedom struggle, will be marked with a grand celebration by Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Sri Vijaya Puram. In tribute to his legacy, the organisation plans to install a magnificent statue of the tribal icon within its campus, symbolising his indelible impact on India’s indigenous communities.
Bhagwan Birsa Munda is celebrated for inspiring the tribal community of the Chotanagpur region to rise against British rule, leading an armed uprising known as “Ulgulan.” His courage and leadership continue to inspire forest-dwelling communities across India to uphold their indigenous culture and resist oppression. Recognised not only as a revolutionary, Bhagwan Birsa Munda was also a social reformer, herbal physician, and spiritual thinker, whose influence endures among India’s tribal population.
In recognition of his contributions, the Government of India has designated November 15 as “Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas” (Tribal Pride Day) in his honour. This year’s celebration launches the 150th anniversary of his birth, which will continue until November 15, 2025.
To commemorate this milestone, the “Dharti Aaba – Bhagwan Birsa Munda: Gaurav Yatra” carrying his statue will begin on November 5, 2024, from Lamiya Bay in Diglipur. This journey will travel across various key locations—Mayabunder, Rangat, Bakultala, Kadamtala, Baratang, and Jirkatang—culminating at Sri Vijaya Puram, where the statue will be installed with Vanvasi-Adivasi rituals on November 15. The event will feature a commemorative program at Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, celebrating Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s legacy and his enduring influence.
Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram has extended an invitation to the general public, especially the Chotanagpuri Ranchi Community, to join this historic celebration and participate in the Darshan (viewing) of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. During the Yatra, the procession will pause at each designated stop, where the Chotanagpuri Ranchi community will welcome it with traditional customs. Soil from villages, temples, and sacred sites will be collected at each stop in small clay pots, forming the foundation for Munda’s statue.
This celebration seeks to reinforce the pride and unity of India’s tribal communities, honouring the legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and his unwavering dedication to their rights, culture, and dignity.