Santhal Revolt (1855-56): Causes, Leaders, Features, Events, Outcomes, Significance

The Santhal Revolt was one of the earliest organised movements against colonial oppression in India. It took place in the mid-nineteenth century when tribal communities began raising their voices against unfair practices introduced during British rule. This movement is also remembered as the Santhal rebellion 1855 56, which reflected the anger of local communities against economic and social injustice.

The movement was not limited to protest. It became a strong expression of unity among tribal people who wanted to protect their land, culture, and traditional way of life. The Santhal Hul History was therefore not only a political reaction but also a cultural resistance against changing systems imposed by colonial administration.

Background of the Santhal Revolt

The Santhal community lived mainly in forested and agricultural areas. They depended on farming and forest produce for survival. Their lifestyle was deeply connected with nature. However, changes in land systems during colonial rule disturbed their traditional practices.

The beginning of the Santhal Revolt can be traced to the settlement of tribal communities in the Rajmahal hills region. The colonial government encouraged them to move into the Damin i koh region Santhal revolt for agricultural expansion. Initially, this provided land for cultivation. Over time, the situation changed due to increasing administrative control and rising external interference.

Gradually, the tribal communities lost control over their own lands. Many outsiders entered the region. This created tension and conflict in daily life. The situation worsened due to heavy taxation and strict land revenue policies. The role of British revenue policies Santhal revolt became a major reason behind the growing dissatisfaction.

Santhal Uprising Causes

The Santhal uprising causes were mainly economic, social, and administrative in nature. The tribal community faced continuous hardship under colonial rule. The major causes are explained below in clear sub-points:

Exploitation by Moneylenders and Zamindars

There was severe exploitation by moneylenders zamindars British authorities. Moneylenders charged very high interest on loans. Many Santhals were unable to repay debts due to poverty. Their lands were taken away when they failed to repay loans. Zamindars imposed heavy rents and illegal demands.

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Land Alienation

Traditional land ownership patterns were disturbed. Earlier, land was held collectively by the community. New revenue systems recognised landlords instead of tribal cultivators. Many Santhals lost their land and became tenants or labourers.

Role of British Revenue Policies

The role of British revenue policies Santhal revolt was very significant. High land revenue was imposed without understanding tribal conditions. Revenue had to be paid in cash instead of produce. This forced tribal families to borrow money from outsiders.

Forced Labour and Harsh Treatment

Santhals were forced to work without fair wages. Local officials misused their authority. There was no proper system to address tribal complaints.

Corruption in Administration

Police and revenue officials often supported moneylenders. Tribal people faced injustice in courts. False cases were filed against them in many instances.

Disruption of Traditional Lifestyle

The settlement of outsiders in tribal areas increased conflict. Forest rights and access to natural resources were restricted. Cultural and social practices were disturbed.

Growing Anger and Collective Resistance

Continuous oppression created unity among the Santhals. Leaders encouraged people to protect their land and dignity. This dissatisfaction finally resulted in the Santhal Revolt against East India Company.

These combined factors created deep resentment among the tribal population and led to the outbreak of the Santhal Revolt in 1855.

Santhal Revolt Leaders

The Santhal revolt leaders Sidhu and Kanhu were central figures. They mobilized their community against colonial rule.

• Sidhu Murmu: A principal leader, Sidhu played a key role in organizing the initial revolt stages. He led Santhals in battle.
• Kanhu Murmu: Sidhu’s younger brother, Kanhu shared leadership. He helped plan and execute attacks against the British and their allies.
• Chand and Bhairav Murmu: These two brothers supported Sidhu and Kanhu. They helped organize and lead the rebellion.
• Phulo and Jhano Murmu: Sidhu and Kanhu’s sisters also participated. They reportedly entered enemy camps and fought bravely.

Features of the Santhal Revolt 

The Santhal revolt features made this movement different from many other resistance efforts during colonial rule. The important features are given below:

• The Santhal Revolt was a mass tribal movement.
• People from many villages came together to participate.
• It was led by local tribal leaders and not by kings or elites.
• Both men and women actively took part in the movement.
• The movement aimed to protect land and traditional rights.
• Rebels used traditional weapons like bows and arrows.
• Collective decision-making was followed by village groups.
• Leaders organised meetings to spread awareness.
• Some regions declared independence from colonial authority.
• The movement focused on ending exploitation and injustice.
• It became an important part of early tribal movements in India.
• It inspired later tribal resistance movements in India.

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Santhal Revolt Events

The Santhal Hul unfolded through a series of key events. These actions marked the peak of the Santhal resistance movements.

• Declaration of Revolt: On June 30, 1855, over 10,000 Santhals gathered at Bhognadih village. Leaders Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu declared their revolt against oppression. They pledged to fight for self-rule.
• Initial Successes: Santhals used guerrilla tactics. They targeted zamindars and moneylenders. They achieved early victories and captured areas.
• British Retaliation: As the rebellion grew, the British imposed martial law. Troops brutally suppressed the Santhals. Many villages were burned, and thousands died.
• Capture of Leaders: By January 1856, the rebellion was crushed. Key Santhal leaders like Kanhu Murmu were captured. Some resistance continued briefly.

Santhal Revolt Outcomes

The Santhal Rebellion outcomes led to significant changes in British policy towards tribal areas.

• Formation of Santhal Parganas: In 1856, the British created the Santhal Parganas. They carved it from Bhagalpur and Birbhum districts. Special laws were made for Santhal tribes.
• New Police System: A new police system eliminated intermediaries. It encouraged tribal cooperation in law enforcement. However, Act X of 1857 later reduced protections.
• Santhal Parganas Tenancy Act (1876): This act aimed to protect Santhal land rights. It prevented land transfers to non-tribals, recognizing their traditional tenure.

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Santhal Revolt Significance

The Santhal Revolt stands as a pivotal event. It influenced later tribal resistance movements in India.

• Assertion of Tribal Identity: The revolt strongly asserted tribal identity and rights. Santhals fought for their land, culture, and dignity.
• Inspiration for Movements: It inspired future tribal and peasant movements. It showed the resilience of tribal communities.
• Impact on Colonial Policies: The rebellion directly impacted British policies. The Santhal Parganas district was created, offering some autonomy.

The Santhal Revolt was more than a protest against economic hardship. It was a strong response to social injustice and cultural interference. The movement showed the importance of unity in facing exploitation.

As one of the major Santhal Revolt events in Indian history, it continues to be studied for its contribution to resistance traditions. The lessons from the Santhal Revolt remain relevant even today, as they highlight the importance of protecting local rights and traditions.

The story of the Santhal Revolt reminds us of the strength of collective action and the need for fair governance systems in every society.

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