Narendra Modi becomes first PM to visit folk hero Birsa Munda's native village in Jharkhand
Ranchi (Jharkhand), November 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday visited Bhagwan Birsa Munda Memorial Park and Freedom Fighter Museum in Ranchi and paid floral tributes to Indian tribal activist Birsa Munda.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was accompanied by Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Arjun Munda and Governor of Jharkhand CP Radhakrishnan.
In his message on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the Prime Minister said in his post on X "Respectful tribute to Lord Birsa Munda ji on his birth anniversary. Many best wishes to my family members across the country on this special occasion of Tribal Pride Day."
Recognising the immense contributions of Birsa Munda, the Union Cabinet declared November 15 as 'Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas' on November 10, 2021. Thereupon, the annual celebration pays homage to the visionary leader's role in India's freedom movement.
The Prime Minister also visited Ulihatu village, the birthplace of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, according to the Prime Minister's Office press release. At Ulihatu village, the Prime Minister paid floral tribute at the statue of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. This is the first time a prime minister has visited the village.
PM Modi will also participate in a programme marking the celebration of the third Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, 2023 at around 11:30 am in Khunti, according to the release.
In his message on the occasion of the state formation day, the Prime Minister in his post on X said "Jharkhand has been famous for its mineral resources as well as the courage, bravery and self-respect of the tribal society. My family members here have made an important contribution to the progress of the country. I convey my best wishes to him on the foundation day of the state and also wish for the bright future of the state."
During the programme, the Prime Minister will launch the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra' and Pradhan Mantri Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) Mission.
As per the official release, the Prime Minister will also release the 15th instalment of PM-KISAN and inaugurate, dedicate to the nation and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects in Jharkhand.
About Birsa Munda and his birthplace
Ulihatu is the native village of legendary tribal freedom fighter and folk hero Birsa Munda located in Khunti district of Jharkhand. This small village holds significant historical and cultural importance as it was the birthplace of Birsa Munda, who emerged as a prominent figure in the tribal movement against British colonial rule in the late 19th century.
Birsa Munda, born in 1875, led the Munda Rebellion, also known as the Ulgulan, which was a significant revolt against the oppressive British policies and exploitation faced by the tribal communities in the region. His leadership and advocacy for the rights of the indigenous people made him a revered figure in India's freedom struggle.
Ulihatu, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Jharkhand, stands as a symbol of Birsa Munda's legacy. The village continues to honour his memory, and visitors often come to pay homage to this revered tribal hero. The government has taken steps to develop the village as a heritage site, preserving the history and cultural heritage associated with Birsa Munda and the indigenous communities of the region.
- ANI
