Special Lecture Series Commemorating Birsa Munda
In collaboration with Shyam Lal College, University of Delhi, the Birsa Munda Bhawan (Tribal Research and Training Center) and the All India Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram organized a special lecture series to honor the Tribal Pride Year and the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda. This event, held in two sessions, focused on recognizing the contributions, valor, and sacrifices of tribal freedom fighters. Participants included academics, researchers, students, and representatives involved in tribal welfare.
The event commenced with a traditional lamp lighting ceremony. Shri Vishnukant Ji, the All India Joint Secretary of the All India Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, introduced the theme of the lecture series and shared insights about the objectives and future plans of the Birsa Munda Bhawan (Tribal Research and Training Center) in New Delhi.
First Session: New Perspectives on Tribal Freedom Movements
Dr. Anand Burdhan, a senior professor at Dr. BR Ambedkar University, Delhi, served as the keynote speaker for the first session, which was chaired by Shri Vishnu Prakash Tripathi, Executive Editor of a prominent media group.
In his address, Dr. Burdhan emphasized the need to view tribal resistance movements against British colonialism from a fresh perspective. He argued that these struggles should not be confined to issues of land and resources but should also encompass the defense of cultural identity, traditional worship practices, and a way of life rooted in Indian values. He stressed that research on tribal movements should extend beyond colonial archives to include extensive grassroots studies.
Chairing the session, Shri Vishnu Prakash Tripathi remarked that tribal communities in India have managed to preserve their core values and cultural traditions. He highlighted the media’s responsibility to convey these traditions to a broader audience, as media content significantly influences society.
Second Session: Tribal Contributions to Indian Civilization and Security
The second session featured Shri Satyendra Singh Ji, National President of the All India Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, as the keynote speaker, with Major General (Retd.) Dhruv C. Katoch, Director of the India Foundation, presiding over the session.
Shri Satyendra Singh Ji recalled the unforgettable contributions of tribal freedom fighters across the nation. He stated that the roots of Indian civilization lie within the traditions, customs, and worship practices of tribal communities, making their preservation crucial.
In his presidential address, Major General (Retd.) Dhruv C. Katoch noted that tribal communities are an integral part of India’s social and cultural fabric. He pointed out that these communities have bravely fought against invaders throughout history and continue to play a vital role in the nation’s internal and external security. Their contributions deserve national recognition.
The program concluded with a call for deeper research into tribal history, promoting positive representations of tribal culture in the media, and preserving the legacies of Birsa Munda and other tribal leaders.
