Bhubaneswar, 15 November (H.S.) : Odisha Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond on Saturday paid rich tributes to legendary tribal freedom fighter and revolutionary leader Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his birth anniversary, remembering his contribution to India's freedom struggle and his fight against British rule and social evils.

In a social media post, Gond described Birsa Munda, popularly revered as ‘Dharti Aaba’, as an embodiment of indomitable courage and determination who fought against British oppression, social superstitions, blind faith and the practice of slavery.

Birsa Munda was born on November 15, 1875, in Ulihatu village of present-day Jharkhand's Ranchi district, which was then part of the Bengal Presidency. Belonging to the Munda tribal community, he emerged as a prominent leader of the tribal resistance movement against British rule in the 19th century.

In 1894, following famine and an epidemic, he led a movement demanding tax relief for the people from the British administration. Between 1897 and 1900, he spearheaded an armed struggle against British forces, mobilising tribal communities against colonial oppression.

His movement included attacks on the Khunti police station in August 1897 and confrontations with British troops near the Tangri River in 1898. In January 1900, his followers again clashed with British forces at Dombari Hill. He was subsequently arrested and lodged in Ranchi Jail.

Birsa Munda died in captivity on June 9, 1900, at the age of 25. His leadership, resistance against colonial rule and efforts to protect tribal rights continue to hold an important place in India's freedom movement and tribal history.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda