Aizawl, Nov 15 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday virtually inaugurated the Ropuiliani Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum in Mizoram’s Aizawl, honouring the legacy of Mizo tribal resistance to British colonial rule.
The inauguration coincided with the ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas’, observed on the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda.
Modi also inaugurated the Eklavya Model Residential School at Zawlnuam in Mamit district, and laid the foundation stone for another EMRS at Pangzawl South in Hnahthial district.
Virtually addressing a ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas’ programme at Gadchiroli in Maharashtra marking the 151st birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, Modi paid tribute to tribal freedom fighters and highlighted the contribution of tribal communities to India’s development.
The prime minister referred to the sacrifices of several tribal heroes, including Tirot Sing of the Khasi Hills, the leaders of the Kol movement, Sidho-Kanho of the Santhal rebellion, Govind Guru, Rani Gaidinliu, Tantya Bhil, Alluri Sitarama Raju and Rani Durgavati.
Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma also unveiled a statue of Ropuiliani at Kelsih.
Lalduhoma said that Mizoram had a long history of unsung heroes who resisted British attempts to dominate the region.
He described Ropuiliani’s sacrifice as a matter of pride for the Mizo people, and urged the younger generation to preserve their history, traditions and culture.
The CM said the museum would serve as a centre for showcasing Mizo history and cultural heritage.
Named after Ropuiliani, a 19th-century Mizo chieftainess who resisted British colonial rule, the museum complex includes an open-air theatre, the Birsa Munda Tribal Pride Garden, cafeteria and staff quarters, officials said.
(PTI News)
