Patna, Nov 15 Bihar Governor Syed Ata Hasnain led the state in paying tributes to Birsa Munda on the tribal icon’s birth anniversary, celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, at an event here also attended by Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and BJP chief Nitin Nabin, among others.
A state-level function was organised at Birsa Munda’s statue near Sinchai Bhawan on Kranti Marg in the state capital. Several Bihar ministers and other dignitaries also paid their respects to the freedom fighter.
Born in 1875 in Ulihatu village in Jharkhand’s Khunti district, Birsa Munda is credited with mobilising tribals against colonial rule. He died in British custody at the age of 25 on June 9, 1900.
The birth anniversary of the freedom fighter is celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas since 2021 to honour the contributions of tribal communities, especially in India’s freedom struggle, and highlights their important role in preserving the country’s heritage and advancing its progress.
Speaking to reporters, Chief Minister Choudhary said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had initiated the observance of the day to honour the contributions of tribal freedom fighters.
He also took the opportunity to congratulate the Indian cricket team for winning the Under-19 Asia Cup against Pakistan, describing the victory as a historic achievement and wishing the players success in their future endeavours.
Referring to the Kacchi Dargah-Bidupur bridge, he said former chief minister Nitish Kumar had laid its foundation and made significant contributions to Bihar’s development.
The bridge has been named ‘Nitish Setu’ in recognition of the JD(U) chief’s contributions to Bihar, and his guidance and support continue to benefit the state, he added.
(PTI News)
