Fr. Jacob Hembrom S. J.
The brave Santhal rebellion led by Sido and Kanhu Murmu, alongside the courageous efforts of Chand and Bhairav, as well as the inspiring leadership of Phulo and Jhano Murmu, remains a powerful symbol of resistance against oppression.
In 1855-56, these fearless warriors stood against colonial exploitation and unjust zamindari systems, uniting their people with the rallying cry “Hul! Hul!”—a call for justice, dignity, and freedom. Their struggle was not just for land or rights but for the very soul of their community.
Today, we find ourselves in a world where similar injustices persist—systemic exploitation, displacement of indigenous communities, and the erosion of cultural identities. Marginalized groups still fight for their land, rights, and recognition, facing corporate greed and bureaucratic apathy. The spirit of Sido-Kanhu, Chand-Bhairav, and Phulo-Jhano resonates deeply in these struggles, reminding us that resistance is not just a historical event but an ongoing necessity.
The “Hul” is not just a memory—it is a call to action. Their spirit lives on in every protest for justice, every demand for equality, and every effort to reclaim dignity. Let us carry forward their courage, ensuring that their fight was not in vain, and that we, too, can rise against oppression in our times.