Kanhu Murmu from the place Jharkhand, a state in eastern India, which was once a British colony, had witnessed a rebellion in 1855.
This rebellion was to overthrow British rule and atrocities of the corrupt capitalist system of the upper caste zamindars.
What the state of Jharkhand obtained from this rebellion was a great leader who led this rebellion. This rebellion was known as the “Rebellion of Santhal“. And this brave, dynamic and young leader was known as Kanhu Murmu.
History of Kanhu Murmu
Kanhu Murmu and his brother Sidhu Murmu were the pioneers of the Santhal Rebellion of 1855-56. They were born in this province, which was totally under the spell of the British. Both belonged to a town called Bhognadih in the Sahibganj district.
They helped the entire Santhals tribe to be aware of the injustice perpetrated by the oppressive upper class.
A small situation in 1855 unleashed anger and discontent among these people and encouraged them to make people understand how they were constantly exploited.
They had people together. These people, under the direction of the two brothers, declared themselves free. They were also sworn in to fight against atrocities and exploitation until their last breath. They swore to expel all the British agents.
Until then, none of them sat peacefully. These two brave martyrs were captured by the British and then killed in captivity.
In honor of these martyrs, India Post published an Rs.4 stamp in 2002, imagining armed arms during the rebellion.
What was the rebellion all about?
The Santhals are a special community of the people of Munda. These are mainly found in the states of Jharkhand, West Bengal, Orissa, and Assam.
On June 30, 1855 Santhals group decide to meet to discuss the corruption and racism caused by the capitalist practices of money lenders. Wealth was usurped by this poor group of people, who were tired of being deprived of their basic right to live well.
These lenders and agents of the British government affirmed that the agrarian land of these people belonged to them and they took away all the properties.
Feeling deceived, these Santhals decided to unite to fight against these horrible agents who were about to steal everything, including their dignity.
This rebellion was promoted by Kanhu Murmu, whose blood was boiling. This battle was severely repressed and many people lost their lives.
But it marks a phenomenal change in the history of Santhals, especially during colonial rule. This day is still celebrated and is dedicated to martyrdom in the state of Jharkhand.
Sido Kanhu Murmu University:
Sido Kanhu Murmu University is located in Jharkhand. Established in 1992, the university received the names of two great leaders who led the Santhal rebellion in 1855.
This university has 11 universities affiliated with it, which provide the best education for university students.
Seeing his contribution to the early history of the struggle for freedom, Kanhu Murmu is undoubtedly an anonymous hero who helped the oppressed Santhals gain a different identity.