Bhubaneswar: The Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh is being observed across the country from November 1 to November 15, 2025, to celebrate the cultural heritage of tribal communities and acknowledge their significant role in shaping the nation. As part of this nationwide celebration, the Odisha State Tribal Museum is hosting a series of special programmes marking the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
The observance is being organized under the Department of Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes Development, Minorities and Backward Classes Welfare, Government of Odisha, along with the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Research and Training Institute (SCSTRTI). The initiative highlights the life, legacy and sacrifices of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, who remains a powerful symbol of tribal pride and resistance against colonial rule.
A dedicated Bhagwan Birsa Munda Pavilion has been set up at the museum for the occasion. The celebration includes a curated painting exhibition depicting key moments from the life and struggles of Birsa Munda. A separate photo exhibition showcases the diverse cultural practices, traditions and lifestyles of various tribal communities of Odisha.
Traditional craftsmanship also forms a key part of the observance. Artisans from the Kulis tribe are demonstrating traditional textile weaving, while Juang tribal artists are exhibiting their indigenous style of painting, offering visitors a glimpse into living tribal art traditions rooted in community identity.
To ensure wider outreach, special guided tours have been arranged for school and college students. The initiative aims to help young people gain a deeper understanding of Odisha’s tribal heritage and the role of tribal leaders in India’s freedom movement.
The Government of India had earlier declared November 15, 2024, to November 15, 2025, as Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. The observance pays tribute not only to the legacy of Birsa Munda but also to the cultural resilience, social contributions and historical significance of tribal communities across the country.