150th Birth Anniversary Year celebration of Bhagwan Birsa Munda

Tags: Festivals

Janjatiya Gaurav Divas

Why in news?

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi marked the commencement of 150th Birth Anniversary Year celebration of Bhagwan Birsa Munda on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas on november 15,2024 in Jamui, Bihar.

Key points of the event:

•  PM Modi unveils a commemorative coin and postal stamp in honour of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
• The stamp, designed by Shri Sankha Samanta, features a powerful portrayal of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, set against a backdrop depicting him addressing his followers. His resolute expression symbolizes his unwavering vision for tribal unity, empowerment, and self-governance.
• To commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Lord Birsa Munda, Birsa Munda Tribal Gaurav Upvans will be built in tribal dominated districts of the country.
•  There was a Grih Pravesh of 11,000 Awas built for the tribals on the auspicious occasion of Dev Deepavali. 

What is Janjatiya Gaurav Divas?

•  First celebrated in 2021, november 15, was instituted to recognize the sacrifices of tribal freedom fighters as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, celebrating 75 years of India's independence.
•  His contributions, celebrated on Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, continue to symbolize the struggle for indigenous justice and identity.

Who was Birsa Munda?

• Born on 15th November 1875 in Ulihatu, Bihar (present-day Jharkhand), Birsa Munda led the historic Ulgulan (Great Rebellion) from 1899 to 1900, rallying thousands in the fight to reclaim tribal lands and resist colonial oppression.
•  His advocacy for “Munda Raj” symbolized his dream of a just and self-governed society free from exploitation.
•  Though he tragically passed at just 25, his message of courage and resilience continues to inspire communities throughout India.
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Other events on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas:

• Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah unveils a grand statue ofBhagwan Birsa Munda in New Delhi on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary.
• On this occasion, the Modi government also decided to change the name of Sarai Kale Khan Chowk to 'Bhagwan Birsa Munda Chowk.
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