Question

Explore a local resistance movement (tribal, peasant, or princely) from your state or region during the colonial period. Prepare a report or poster describing:

• What was the specific trigger, if any?
• Who led the movement? 
• What were their demands? 
• How did the British respond? 
• How is this event remembered today (e.g., local festivals, songs, monuments)?

Answer 1

Report: The Santhal Rebellion (1855-56)

Region: Present-day Jharkhand (then part of Bengal Presidency)

Tribal Group: Santhals

Specific Trigger: The Portuguese, seeking to dominate the spice trade, demanded tribute and control over Ullal’s strategic port, threatening its independence. Their cartaz system required Indian ships to buy permits, and non-compliance led to seizures and violence. Rani Abbakka refused to submit, sparking a series of conflicts starting around the 1550s.

Leaders of the Movement

1. Sidhu Murmu
2. Kanhu Murmu
3. Supported by brothers Chand and Bhairav

These brave leaders mobilised around 60,000 Santhals to fight for justice.

Demands and Actions

1. End to zamindari exploitation.
2. Return of tribal land.
3. A government by Santhals for Santhals.
4. Punishment of corrupt moneylenders and British agents.

The Santhals attacked British outposts, government buildings, and moneylenders’ houses using traditional weapons and guerrilla warfare.

British Response

1. The British responded with brutal force.
2. Martial law was declared.
3. Thousands of Santhals were killed.
4. Sidhu and Kanhu were eventually captured and executed.

Legacy and Memory

1. Remembered as the first major tribal uprising against the British.
2. Bhognadih is now a memorial site.
3. June 30 is celebrated as Hul Diwas (Day of Revolt).
4. Songs, dances, and plays in tribal villages still narrate their bravery.
5. Statues of Sidhu-Kanhu are found in Dumka and Ranchi.
6. Santhal Hul Museum preserves their memory.