Jharkhand Foundation Day 2024: President Droupadi Murmu, PM Modi and Leaders Extend Wishes on Jharkhand Foundation Day and Birsa Munda Jayanti

Ranchi, november 15, 2024: On November 15, the state of Jharkhand marked its Foundation Day, celebrating 23 years since its formation. The day also commemorated the birth anniversary of the revered tribal leader and freedom fighter, Birsa Munda. Prominent national leaders, including President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, extended their greetings, acknowledging the state’s significant history and the contributions of its tribal communities.

President Droupadi Murmu’s Message

झारखंड राज्य के स्थापना दिवस एवं रजत जयंती वर्ष की सभी को हार्दिक बधाई! भगवान बिरसा मुंडा, वीर सिदो–कान्हू, चाँद-भैरव, तिलका मांझी, नीलाम्बर-पीताम्बर जैसे अनेक वीरों ने झारखंड की धरती को गौरवान्वित किया है। प्राकृतिक संसाधनों से समृद्ध इस राज्य के लोगों ने देश की प्रगति में…

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) November 15, 2024

President Droupadi Murmu, hailing from a tribal background herself, conveyed her wishes through the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). She wrote, “Heartfelt greetings to all on the Foundation Day of Jharkhand and the silver jubilee year of its formation. On this auspicious occasion, we remember the unmatched sacrifice and contributions of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. May Jharkhand continue to progress, honoring its rich cultural heritage and the spirit of its people.”

Her message resonated deeply with the state’s citizens, highlighting the pivotal role Birsa Munda played in resisting colonial rule and advocating for tribal rights. The President’s connection to Jharkhand’s indigenous roots underscored the day’s significance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Tribute

झारखंड के अपने सभी भाई-बहनों को राज्य के स्थापना दिवस पर अनेकानेक शुभकामनाएं। जनजातीय समाज के संघर्ष और बलिदान से सिंचित इस धरती ने देश को हमेशा गौरवान्वित किया है। मेरी कामना है कि प्राकृतिक संसाधनों से परिपूर्ण यह प्रदेश प्रगति के पथ पर तेज रफ्तार से आगे बढ़े।

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 15, 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also shared his heartfelt wishes. In his post, PM Modi stated, “On Jharkhand’s Foundation Day and the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, I extend my best wishes to the people of Jharkhand. This day reminds us of Birsa Munda’s valor and vision for a free and just society. May Jharkhand thrive and reach new heights of development.”

The Prime Minister’s message emphasized the enduring legacy of Birsa Munda as a beacon of hope and courage, inspiring generations to uphold justice and cultural pride. His tribute was shared widely, evoking a sense of unity and pride among the people.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s Address

महामानव के फ्रेम के पास कोई न दिखे, इसलिए झारखण्ड राज्य को अपने करोड़ों वासियों को आज शुभकामनाएं देने की भी इजाजत नहीं दी गयी चुनाव आयोग द्वारा।

कहाँ तक रोकोगे, कितना रोकोगे निर्लज भाजपाइयों?

झारखण्ड के हमारे वीर शहीदों और करोड़ों राज्यवासियों से इतनी चिढ़ क्यूँ है भाजपाइयों… pic.twitter.com/IqAriZrlEW

— Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (@JmmJharkhand) November 15, 2024

Jharkhand’s Chief Minister Hemant Soren delivered an address from Ranchi, focusing on the state’s progress and challenges over the past two decades. He said, “Jharkhand was born out of the aspirations and struggles of its people, particularly the tribal communities who have protected its land and culture for centuries. On this Foundation Day, we renew our commitment to building a prosperous and equitable state for all.”

CM Soren paid homage to Birsa Munda, describing him as the “Dharti Aaba” (Father of the Earth) and a symbol of resistance against oppression. He reiterated his government’s dedication to safeguarding the rights of indigenous communities and promoting sustainable development.

State Governor Santosh Gangwar’s Remarks

झारखंड राज्य के स्थापना दिवस के अवसर पर सभी प्रदेशवासियों को मेरी हार्दिक बधाई एवं शुभकामनाएं।
मैं आप सभी के सुख-समृद्धि, राज्य की निरंतर प्रगति एवं एक समृद्ध झारखंड की कामना करता हूँ।#झारखंड_स्थापना_दिवस pic.twitter.com/jOliIT4fwq

— Governor of Jharkhand (@jhar_governor) November 15, 2024

Governor Santosh Gangwar added to the celebrations by emphasizing Jharkhand’s rich heritage and resilience. In a statement, he remarked, “This day is not just a reminder of our glorious past but a call to action for a brighter future. We honor Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s legacy and vow to uphold the values he stood for.”

Opposition Leaders’ Contributions

भरपूर प्राकृतिक, सांस्कृतिक और खनिज संपदा से युक्त झारखंड के स्थापना दिवस पर सभी प्रदेशवासियों को हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं।

झारखंड वासियों की सभ्यता और अधिकारों की रक्षा के लिए INDIA सदैव संकल्पित है। pic.twitter.com/FCe0M84zPy

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 15, 2024

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and other opposition figures also expressed their well-wishes. Rahul Gandhi noted, “Jharkhand’s story is one of strength and unity. On this special day, we salute the courage and vision of its people and remember the great Birsa Munda, whose legacy of fighting for justice remains unmatched.”

His message was seen as an acknowledgment of the state’s diverse communities and their collective efforts in shaping Jharkhand’s identity.

Cultural Celebrations Across Jharkhand

Across the state, celebrations were marked by traditional music, dance performances and tributes to Birsa Munda. Educational institutions and local organizations hosted events to honor the state’s vibrant culture and remember the sacrifices of its tribal leaders. In Ranchi, a large public gathering at the Birsa Munda Park featured speeches and performances celebrating the life and legacy of the legendary freedom fighter.

Significance of Birsa Munda’s Legacy

Birsa Munda’s role as a leader of the tribal movement in the late 19th century has been integral to Jharkhand’s identity. Known for leading the Ulgulan (The Great Rebellion) against British rule, Birsa Munda inspired a wave of awareness regarding tribal rights and land ownership. His teachings continue to resonate, symbolizing resistance and self-determination.

Foundation Day in Perspective

Jharkhand was carved out of Bihar on November 15, 2000, fulfilling a long-standing demand for a separate state to recognize the distinct cultural and social identity of the region’s tribal population. Each year, the statehood day coincides with Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary, adding profound cultural and historical importance.

As Jharkhand reflects on its journey from statehood to its current standing, leaders’ messages and public celebrations encapsulate both the pride and aspirations of its people.