Delhi's Sarai Kale Khan ISBT Chowk renamed after Birsa Munda: Who was he?
Birsa Munda
India's Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced on Friday (Nov 15) that the chowk near the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) at Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi will be renamed in honour of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
November 15 marks the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda. This day is observed as “Janjatiya Gaurav Divas” to honour the contributions of tribal freedom fighters. Birsa Munda, often called “Dharti Aba” (Father of the Earth), was a prominent leader who organised the "Ulgulan" or Munda Rebellion against British rule in the late 19th century.
The announcement was made during an event in Delhi where Union Home Minister Amit Shah also unveiled a statue of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
"I am announcing today that the big chowk outside the ISBT bus stand here will be known after Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Seeing this statue and the name of that chowk, not only the citizens of Delhi but also the people visiting the International Bus stand will definitely be inspired by his life," Khattar said.
"Birsa Munda spoke against religious conversion while completing his secondary education. In 1875, while getting a secondary education, he raised his voice against religious conversion. When the entire country and 2/3rd of the world was ruled by the British, at that time, he showed courage to stand against religious conversion," news agency PTI quoted Shah as saying.
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Who was Birsa Munda?
Born on November 15, 1875, in the Chotanagpur region (present-day Jharkhand), Birsa grew up during a period of substantial changes for his community.
Birsa Munda emerged as a unifying figure for the tribal community, rallying them against oppression under British colonial rule. He established his own religion, known as Birsait, and was regarded as ‘Bhagwan’ (God) by his followers.
In 1899, he launched the Ulgulan movement, using guerrilla tactics to resist colonial forces and encouraged tribes to reject British laws and taxes.
On March 3, 1900, he was arrested by the British while resting with his guerilla fighters. He passed away in Ranchi Jail on June 9, 1900, at the young age of 25, reportedly due to an illness.
(With inputs from agencies)
