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There have been very few figures in Indian history whose consciousness illuminated not only their own era but also the future of generations to come. Dharti Aba Bhagwan Birsa Munda is one such figure — a symbol of tribal identity, self-respect, and freedom, whose light shines as brightly today as it did when he stood against the darkness of injustice. His life stands as testimony to the truth that when a person rises to defend the honor of his roots, culture, and community, his struggle has the power to change not only the course of history but also the destiny of the future.
Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s great movement, the Ulgulan, was not merely a rebellion against British rule; it was the soulful cry of an entire civilization. He instilled the belief that tribal societies must be self-reliant and that their ownership of water, forests, land, lifestyle, and culture must be protected. He envisioned tribal communities building their own systems of governance and justice, bringing an end to exploitation and inequality. His idea was not just a form of political resistance—it was a call for moral and cultural renaissance.
Dharti Aba envisioned a golden age where justice, equality, and self-reliance formed the very foundation of society. This vision is not just a memory from the past—it remains a guiding light for today’s India. Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s message reminds us that true development does not lie in economic growth alone, but in a harmonious balance where culture, nature, and humanity progress together.
On the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas on November 15, 2024, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, while formally inaugurating the celebrations of the
Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s great movement, the Ulgulan, was not merely a rebellion against British rule; it was the soulful cry of an entire civilization. He instilled the belief that tribal societies must be self-reliant and that their ownership of water, forests, land, lifestyle, and culture must be protected
150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, said, “Tribal society is the one that transformed Prince Ram into Lord Ram, and the society that fought for centuries to protect India’s culture and independence.” This statement testifies to how deeply India’s cultural consciousness is rooted in its tribal traditions.
Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, in the 127th edition of his radio program Mann Ki Baat (October 26, 2025), said:
“On the 15th of next month, we will celebrate Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas. This is the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda ji. The work he did for the country’s independence and for safeguarding the rights of the tribal community is incomparable. It has been my good fortune to visit Bhagwan Birsa Munda ji’s village, Ulihatu in Jharkhand. I paid my respects by applying the sacred soil of that land to my forehead.”
These words of the Prime Minister are not merely a tribute, but a call to understand the tradition and self-confidence that have preserved the very soul of India.
Today, as India enters a new era of development, the message of Bhagwan Birsa Munda has become even more meaningful and relevant. The central government is continuously expanding basic services—such as education, healthcare, roads, electricity, and digital connectivity—for the welfare of the country’s tribal communities. Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Nyay Maha Abhiyan (PM Janman) have brought the light of development to regions that were once considered beyond hope. Efforts to revive the traditional knowledge, medicinal practices, and environmental wisdom of tribal communities are now becoming an integral part of the holistic development of New India.
The commemorative coin and special postage stamp issued by the Government of India on the historic occasion of Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s 150th birth anniversary and Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas symbolize our unwavering devotion and reverence for him. These symbols embody not only history but also inspiration for the future. The Central Government’s initiative to establish the Bhagwan Birsa Munda Memorial Park-cum-Museum in tribal-dominated districts across the country will ensure that future generations can gain firsthand insight into his thoughts, struggles, and ideals.
Dharti Aba’s philosophy reminds us that freedom is not merely a change in governance, but the awakening of a society’s inner soul. He showed that when a community fights for its identity and dignity, it uplifts not only itself but also the entire society and the nation. His message continues to challenge us even today: Is our development progressing in harmony with human dignity and cultural balance?
The Prime Minister’s mantra—“Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas”—appears to be a modern expression of the ideals of Dharti Aba Bhagwan Birsa Munda. It reminds us that every community has an essential role to play in building a truly inclusive and empowered India.
Today, as we approach the conclusion of his 150th birth anniversary year, it is not only a moment to remember his immortal sacrifice but also an opportunity for introspection. This is the auspicious time for all of us to resolve to “remain dedicated to realizing the India of Dharti Aba’s dreams — a strong, prosperous, and capable nation, where development and culture advance together, and where every person can live with dignity, equality, and self-reliance.”
This immortal saga of Dharti Aba Bhagwan Birsa Munda will continue to burn brightly in the soul of the Indian people until the golden age of his dreams is fully realized.
(The writer is MoS, Defence, Government of India)