5th National EMRS Fest Celebrates Tribal Heritage & Birsa Munda’s Legacy

The 5th National EMRS Cultural & Literary Fest and Kala Utsav, organized by the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), is taking place from 12th to 15th November 2024 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, at Shiksha ‘O’ Anusandhan.

This event, hosted by the Odisha Model Tribal Educational Society (OMTES), marks a significant moment in honoring the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. With the theme “A Tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda & Tribal Freedom Fighters,” this event underscores the deep connection between India’s tribal communities, their culture, and their history.

Highlights of the Event

Celebrating Tribal Unity and Talent

Over 2,000 tribal students from Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) across the country will showcase the rich cultural diversity of India’s tribal communities. The event will feature 35 different cultural activities, including Vocal and Instrumental Music, Dance, Theatre, and Visual Arts, offering students a platform to display their artistic talents on a national stage.

Path to National Recognition

The winners of the Cultural Fest will earn the opportunity to participate in the National Level Kala Utsav competition at RIE Bhopal, where they will compete against 38 other teams from across the country. This provides tribal students a chance to gain national recognition for their talents.

Fostering Holistic Development

The EMRS Cultural Fest continues its legacy of bridging the gap between tribal and mainstream communities, fostering equal opportunities, and encouraging tribal students to explore their full potential. By focusing on cultural expression, the fest supports the overall development of students, promoting not just artistic skills but also social and academic engagement.

A Tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s Legacy

The event’s theme pays homage to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, a prominent tribal freedom fighter, and celebrates the contributions of all tribal heroes in India’s freedom struggle. This year’s event combines cultural celebration with historical significance, reinforcing NESTS’ commitment to tribal education and empowerment through artistic expression.

Birsa Munda’s Legacy: Key Points

Tribal Leader and Freedom Fighter: Birsa Munda (1875-1900) was a prominent tribal leader and freedom fighter who played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement, particularly in the fight against British colonial rule and exploitation of tribal communities.

Role in the Ulgulan (Revolt): Birsa Munda led the Ulgulan or Munda Rebellion (1899-1900) against the British and their policies, such as land revenue and forced labor, which oppressed the tribal population. The rebellion was one of the earliest movements of resistance in India.

Religious and Social Reformer: Birsa advocated for the preservation of tribal culture, religion, and traditions. He led the movement for the revitalization of Munda tribal religious practices, opposing conversion to Christianity and promoting the worship of local deities.

Foundation of Munda Raj: Birsa Munda united various Munda and other tribal communities to fight for their rights. He is remembered for organizing a social and political force that resisted British control and the feudal exploitation in tribal areas.

Fight Against Exploitation: His leadership was crucial in the fight against British laws such as the Bengal Tenancy Act, which adversely affected tribal landownership. He aimed to ensure land rights and economic autonomy for his people.

Martyrdom and Legacy: Birsa was arrested by the British in 1900 and died in British custody under suspicious circumstances at the age of 25. He became a martyr and is regarded as a symbol of tribal pride and resistance.

Birsa’s Influence: Birsa’s legacy inspired future tribal movements across India. He is revered as “Dharti Aba” (Father of the Earth) by Munda and other tribal communities.

State Recognition: His contributions are recognized in various forms, including the naming of Jharkhand’s capital city, Ranchi’s Birsa Institute of Technology, and Birsa Agricultural University. His birthday, 15th November, is celebrated as Jharkhand Foundation Day.

Impact on Tribal Rights: Birsa’s fight for tribal rights and his vision of a society where tribal people could live freely and with dignity laid the foundation for future tribal empowerment movements in India.

Inspiration for Tribal Education: Birsa Munda’s teachings and ideals have inspired educational initiatives for tribal communities, including schemes aimed at empowering them through education, cultural promotion, and social justice.

Summery of the News

Static Points