Birsa Munda, the folk hero and Adivasi independence activist in the late 19th century, has merited a place in the hall of fame.
Birsa belonged to the Munda tribe in Jharkhand’s Chotanagpur in eastern India. He led a religious revivalist movement alongside a revolt against the British rule , Biritsh-sponsored landlordism and against exploitation and injustice suffered by his fellow tribals.
Birsa Abba, as he was fondly called by his followers, was arrested and sent to Ranchi jail. He died there reportedly by vomiting blood. Rumours say he was poisoned. Today that jail is known as Birsa Munda Jail.
Birsa’s ideals and principles are ever vibrant and alive in the indigenous world. Exploitation of tribals and alienation of tribal land go on unabated. In this capitalist world, the thriving business economy puts a heavy burden on indigenous people’s resources.
