BIRSA MUNDA & ULGULAN MOVEMENT

PRERNA FOR IAS

BIRSA MUNDA & ULGULAN MOVEMENT

1. Birsa Munda – Key Facts

Birsa Munda (1875–1900) was a legendary tribal freedom fighter and social reformer from the Munda tribe of present-day Jharkhand. Known as “Dharti Aba” (Father of the Earth), he led the Ulgulan Movement against British rule, exploitation, and land alienation, becoming a symbol of tribal pride and resistance.

2. Ulgulan Movement – Key Facts

The Ulgulan Movement (1899–1900), meaning “The Great Tumult,” was led by Birsa Munda in the Chotanagpur Plateau. It aimed to restore tribal land rights, end British oppression, and protect tribal culture. The movement united tribal communities against landlords, moneylenders, and colonial authorities exploiting indigenous populations.

3. Khuntkatti System

Khuntkatti was the traditional community-based land ownership system of the Mundas. Land belonged collectively to tribal clans and was inherited through generations. British land policies weakened this system, causing widespread discontent. Protecting Khuntkatti rights became one of the main objectives of Birsa Munda’s movement and tribal resistance.

4. Diku

The term “Diku” referred to outsiders such as landlords, traders, moneylenders, and government officials who exploited tribal communities. Tribals viewed them as agents of oppression responsible for land alienation and economic exploitation. Opposition to Dikus became a major theme of the Ulgulan Movement under Birsa Munda’s leadership.

5. Beth Begari

Beth Begari was a system of forced and unpaid labor imposed on tribal people by landlords and colonial authorities. Tribals were compelled to work without wages, causing hardship and resentment. Birsa Munda strongly opposed this exploitative practice and demanded freedom from forced labor and social injustice.

6. Birsait Faith

Birsait Faith was a religious movement founded by Birsa Munda. It promoted belief in one God, social reforms, moral living, and tribal unity. The faith opposed superstitions, alcohol consumption, and forced religious conversions. It inspired self-respect among tribals and strengthened resistance against colonial and social oppression.

7. Chotanagpur Tenancy Act, 1908