Jamui, Bihar: In a grand ceremony held in Jamui, Bihar, the Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a commemorative postage stamp to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the legendary tribal leader and freedom fighter. The event, organized to coincide with Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, saw the participation of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and other esteemed dignitaries, celebrating the enduring legacy of the tribal icon.
Born on November 15, 1875, in Ulihatu, Bihar (now Jharkhand), Birsa Munda led the historic Ulgulan (Great Rebellion) between 1899 and 1900. This monumental movement aimed to reclaim tribal lands and resist colonial oppression, with his vision of “Munda Raj” symbolizing the dream of a self-governed society free from exploitation. Although his life was tragically cut short at the age of 25, his message of courage and resilience continues to inspire generations across India.
The commemorative stamp, designed by Sankha Samanta, features a striking portrayal of Birsa Munda addressing his followers, with a backdrop symbolizing his leadership and commitment to tribal unity, empowerment, and self-governance. The stamp’s powerful imagery captures the essence of his unwavering vision and monumental contributions to India’s freedom struggle.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the significance of honoring tribal leaders like Birsa Munda, whose sacrifices and ideals played a pivotal role in shaping India’s history. “Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s life is a source of inspiration for all Indians. His dream of a just society and his fight for tribal rights remain deeply relevant today,” the Prime Minister said.
The commemorative postage stamp is accompanied by a First Day Cover (FDC) and a Brochure, making it a valuable collectible. It is available for purchase through the Department of Posts’ ePostOffice platform, providing an opportunity for citizens to own a piece of history and pay tribute to one of India’s greatest tribal leaders.
As the nation celebrates Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, the release of this stamp not only honors Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s legacy but also underscores the continued importance of his ideals in empowering tribal communities and preserving their rights.