Birsa Munda’s Life and Leadership in the Context of Tribal Resistance and Cultural Heritage

A Study

Abstract

Recently, the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda was celebrated across India as a grand festival. Every year, on 15 November, his birth anniversary is observed as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (National Tribal Pride Day). This day is not only meant to commemorate his martyrdom and contributions, but also to celebrate his sacrifice, dedication, ancient cultural heritage, continuous struggle, and the spirit of self-respect for the tribal community. Dharti Aaba (Father of the Earth), Bhagwan Birsa Munda, led powerful movements against British rule and simultaneously worked tirelessly to eliminate various social evils within the tribal society, such as harmful customs, superstitions, violence, and addiction. For this study, both documentary and non-documentary sources related to Birsa Munda have been used, and the article has been prepared based on the findings obtained from these sources. The study reveals that Birsa Munda devoted his entire life to the welfare of society and undertook numerous constructive and reformative initiatives. The struggles he undertook for the upliftment of the Adivasi community form the foundation of the reverence with which he is remembered today. Consequently, people across India recognize him as Bhagwan Birsa Munda, a symbol of courage, reform, and tribal pride.