Bhubaneswar: The 151st birth anniversary of legendary tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda was observed in Odisha on Sunday with floral tributes paid to the revolutionary leader at two locations in the state capital.
The Information and Public Relations Department organised the commemorative programme to honour Birsa Munda, who was born on November 15, 1875, and spearheaded a movement against British colonial rule and the exploitation of tribal communities in the late 19th century.
Birsa Munda mobilised the Munda community against the oppressive practices of British authorities, zamindars, jagirdars and contractors, who exploited tribal people through various forms of oppression and forced labour. He emerged as a prominent voice of resistance, inspiring Adivasis to fight for their rights and freedom.
He died in British custody at the age of 25. His contribution to the freedom struggle and the tribal movement continues to be remembered, with Adivasi communities revering him as ‘Birsa Bhagwan’.
As part of the observance, floral tributes were offered at 8.30 am at Birsa Munda’s statue on Xavier Marg in Maitri Vihar and subsequently at the martyrs’ memorial in front of the Odisha Legislative Assembly.
Odisha Assembly Speaker Surama Padhi, Information and Public Relations Department Director (Technical) Smita Kar and Joint Director Sucheta Priyadarshini were among those who paid homage. Representatives of Utkal Sammilani and Pujyapuja Sansad, along with other dignitaries, also attended the programme.
