The Ramyabhumi Tribal Armed Forces Welfare Organization, along with Team AIDENT and the SBI Foundation in Palamu, on Monday organized a commemorative programme to mark the death anniversary of tribal icon and freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda, remembered across Jharkhand as “Dharti Abba”. The event also included expressions of gratitude to ex-servicemen associated with the organization for their continued support and contribution to community initiatives.
Observed on June 9, the day marks the passing of Birsa Munda in 1900 at the age of just 25, when he died inside a British prison under controversial circumstances. Speakers at the programme recalled his historic role in mobilising tribal communities against British colonial rule, noting that his leadership of the Ulgulan (Great Rebellion) shook the foundations of the colonial administration in the region. Born on November 15, 1875, in Ulihatu village of Khunti district, Birsa Munda emerged as a symbol of resistance at a young age, championing the protection of tribal land, identity, and cultural heritage.
The observance concluded with renewed calls to preserve Jharkhand’s cultural identity and to carry forward the spirit of resistance and self-respect that Birsa Munda embodied.
Participants highlighted that leading a rebellion in a largely tribal belt under colonial dominance was an extraordinary feat, and credited Birsa Munda with igniting a strong grassroots movement at a time when organised resistance was rare in such regions. His imprisonment and subsequent death are widely believed to have been caused by slow poisoning, a claim often cited in public memory and local narratives.
On the occasion, members and office-bearers of the organization paid floral tributes to the freedom fighter. Those present included Vice President Sunil Kumar Singh, General Secretary Vikas Tiwari, Treasurer Naval Kishore Pandey, District Vice President Pankaj Tiwari, District Treasurer Jitendra Tiwari, and serving soldier Shashikant Ojha, among others. They paid homage and reiterated the relevance of Birsa Munda’s ideals in present times.
The programme saw active participation from students of the Birsa Munda Youth Training Centre, while the event management and coordination were supported by AIDENT under the SBI Foundation initiative. Organisers said the event aimed not only to honour the legacy of Birsa Munda but also to inspire younger generations to remain connected with their heritage and values.