India would celebrate the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, the tribal freedom fighter, as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas on 15 November.

Birsa Munda fought bravely against the exploitative British colonial system and spearheaded a movement against British oppression giving a call for ‘ulgulan’ (revolution).

He is revered as Bhagwan by tribal communities across the country.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the declaration of 15 November as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas dedicated to the memory of brave tribal freedom fighters so that coming generations could know about their sacrifices for the country.

The government has planned week-long celebrations starting from 15 to 22 November to celebrate and commemorate 75 years of glorious history of tribal people, culture and achievements.

India’s freedom struggle was strengthened by several movements by tribal communities such as Santhals, Tamars, Kols, Bhils, Khasis and Mizos to name a few. The revolutionary movements and struggles organised by the tribal communities were marked by their immense courage and supreme sacrifice.

Tribal movements in different regions of the country against the British colonial rule got linked with the national freedom struggle and inspired Indians all over the country. However, the public at large is not much aware about these tribal heroes.

Pursuant to the speech of the Prime Minister on Independence Day of 2016, the government has sanctioned 10 tribal freedom fighter museums across the country.

The declaration acknowledges the glorious history and cultural heritage of tribal communities. The day will be celebrated every year and would recognise the efforts of the tribals for preservation of cultural heritage and promotion of Indian values of valour, hospitality and national pride.

Tribal Freedom Fighter Museum at Ranchi where Birsa Munda breathed his last will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister.

As part of the celebration, several activities have been planned jointly with state governments and the theme behind each activity is to showcase the achievements of tribals in Indian freedom struggle, various welfare measures undertaken by government of India in education, health, livelihood, infrastructure and skill development.

The events will also display the unique tribal cultural heritage, their contributions to freedom struggle, practices, rights, traditions, cuisine, health, education and livelihood.