- BJP to observe Janjatiya Gaurav Divas from Nov 13 to 18 to honour legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda
JAMMU: Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the legendary tribal revolutionary revered as Dharti Aaba, who fearlessly challenged British colonial oppression and ignited a historic movement for tribal rights, dignity and self-respect, will be honoured across Jammu & Kashmir during Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (Tribal Pride Week).
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Jammu & Kashmir, will organize a series of programmes from November 13 to 18 to commemorate his 151st birth anniversary and celebrate the glorious contribution of tribal communities to India's freedom struggle and nation-building.
This was stated by J&K BJP General Secretary Gopal Mahajan while addressing a press conference at the party headquarters, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu. He was accompanied by Media Incharge Dr. Pardeep Mahotra, spokesperson Balbir Ram Rattan and Doda District President Babu Ram.
Gopal Mahajan said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated the nationwide observance of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas in 2021 to give tribal freedom fighters and their extraordinary contributions the recognition they had long deserved. He said the Modi government has brought tribal heroes into the national spotlight, ensuring that their sacrifices, struggles and legacy become an integral part of India's collective consciousness.
Giving details of the celebrations, Mahajan said that programmes would be organized across districts and mandals. On November 14, Safai Abhiyan and Deepotsav would be organized at tribal memorials and public places, combining cleanliness drives with the lighting of lamps in honour of tribal heroes. On November 15, Malyarpan Evam Pushpanjali programmes would be held to pay floral tributes to Bhagwan Birsa Munda and other distinguished tribal personalities.
He further informed that Janjatiya Swabhiman Sammelans, cultural melas, sports competitions, exhibitions and traditional cultural programmes would showcase tribal folk traditions, music, literature, indigenous knowledge and historical achievements. Special events would also honour distinguished tribal personalities, social reformers and community contributors. A dedicated media, social media and publicity campaign would highlight the life, struggles and revolutionary legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and other tribal icons.
Recalling his historic contribution, Mahajan said that Bhagwan Birsa Munda's courageous leadership against British exploitation remains an enduring symbol of resistance, social justice and the struggle to protect tribal land, identity and rights.
Mahajan appealed to party workers, tribal organizations, youth and the general public to participate enthusiastically, asserting that Janjatiya Gaurav Divas is not merely a tribute to the past but a pledge to preserve tribal heritage and ensure their rightful participation in India's development.
Earlier, Dr. Pardeep Mahotra briefed the media on the wider significance of the occasion and the importance of bringing the lives and contributions of great national personalities into public consciousness. He also criticized Congress for its historical neglect of tribal communities and failure to accord due recognition to their heroes.


