PM Pays Tribute on Hul Diwas 2025: Honouring Santhal Rebellion and Tribal Heroes of India

On June 30, 2025, Prime Minister paid tribute to India’s tribal heroes on Hul Diwas, marking the anniversary of the Santhal Rebellion (1855-56). 

• This day commemorates the valor and sacrifices of the Santhal community during one of the most significant tribal uprisings against British colonial rule.

Key Highlights of the Santhal Rebellion

• Santhal Uprising (1855-56):
  • The Santhal Rebellion was a major tribal uprising that occurred between 1855 and 1856 in the Damin-i-Koh region, Rajmahal Hills, which includes parts of present-day Jharkhand, Bihar, and West Bengal.
• Key Figures in the Rebellion:
  • Sido and Kanhu Murmu: The central leaders of the rebellion, brothers from the Santhal tribe, who became symbols of resistance.
  • Chand-Bhairav: Another important leader who joined the rebellion, embodying the unity and strength of the Santhal people in their fight for justice.
  • Phulo and Jhano: Two women leaders who played a significant role in the rebellion.
• Reasons for the Rebellion:
  • The Permanent Settlement Act of 1793 is considered a root cause of the rebellion. The Act displaced the Santhal tribes from their traditional lands in Birbhum and Manbhum (present-day Bengal).
  • Exploitation and Oppression: The Zamindars were granted control over land and its revenues, exploiting the Santhals through unfair taxation and forced labor, while the British colonial administration allowed this oppression to continue.
• Significance of the Rebellion:
  • The Santhal Rebellion is considered one of the largest and most organized tribal uprisings in colonial India, highlighting the resilience of tribal communities in resisting British rule.
  • Though the rebellion was eventually suppressed, it played a crucial role in challenging British authority and became a significant precursor to future anti-colonial movements.
  • The bravery of the Santhal leaders and their community remains a symbol of resistance and unity, contributing to India’s overall struggle for independence.

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