Arrival of Tribes to Chhotanagpur and Social Reformers

The book Arrival of Tribes to Chhotanagpur presents a comprehensive exploration of the indigenous communities who shaped the cultural political and social fabric of Jharkhand. While it begins with the historical journey of tribes such as the Munda Oraon Santhal Ho Kharia Birhor Asur and others into the Chhotanagpur plateau its true strength lies in the detailed portrayal of tribal leaders and reformers who transformed their societies through courage sacrifice and progressive thought. Covering a wide spectrum of personalities—from legendary freedom fighters to contemporary activists—the book establishes a vital link between the historical roots of the tribes and their ongoing struggles for identity rights and justice. The section on social reformers and tribal leaders is particularly significant. It opens with an introduction to the socio-political context of tribal resistance highlighting how dispossession exploitation by landlords and colonial rulers and the erosion of traditional livelihoods compelled leaders to rise. Birsa Munda stands tall as the symbol of tribal awakening leading the Ulgulan (Great Tumult) against the British. His vision of a just society based on Abua Dishum Abua Raj (Our land our rule) resonates as a rallying cry even today. Similarly Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu led the Santhal rebellion of 1855 mobilizing thousands to challenge colonial oppression while Phulo and Jhano epitomized women’s courage in the same uprising.