Bhopal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver a virtual address during the Birsa Munda Festival in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, on November 15, marking ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’ (Tribal Pride Day) — a national celebration honouring the legacy of tribal freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

Week-Long Festivities from Nov 11 to 15

The celebrations will begin on November 11 and culminate on November 15, coinciding with Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary. The festival will feature a series of cultural, educational, and awareness programmes broadcast live across the country.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav reviewed preparations in a high-level meeting, emphasising the state’s commitment to preserving tribal heritage and promoting indigenous identity.

Celebrations Across Tribal Regions

In tribal-dominated districts, localised ‘Birsa Munda Cow Festivals’ will be organised, blending cultural and ecological themes. Events will include:

• Tableaux depicting Birsa Munda’s life and freedom struggle

• Interactive exhibitions on tribal history and traditions

• Folk performances by renowned tribal art groups

• Public gatherings focused on community empowerment

The celebrations will also highlight cow conservation, aligning with the theme of Tribal Cow Day, recognising cattle as central to tribal livelihoods and ecology.

National Celebration of Tribal Heritage

Since its declaration in 2021 during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Janjatiya Gaurav Divas has been observed nationwide to honour tribal freedom fighters such as the Santhals, Tamars, Kols, Bhils, Khasis, and Mizos, who played a crucial role in India’s independence movement.

Last year, on November 15, 2024, PM Modi marked the occasion in Jamui, Bihar, by unveiling a commemorative coin and postal stamp in honour of Birsa Munda and inaugurating projects worth over ₹6,640 crore aimed at uplifting tribal communities.

Main Event at Jabalpur

The main venue in Jabalpur will host:

• Seminars on tribal rights and development

• Handicraft stalls and exhibitions of tribal art

• Traditional cuisine zones

• Performances by tribal artists and cultural troupes

Thousands of attendees are expected, with similar programmes in districts such as Mandla, Dindori, and Chhindwara, ensuring widespread community participation.

Digital Outreach and Nationwide Impact

Authorities have arranged nationwide telecast and digital streaming to make the event accessible across India. Security, logistics, and coordination efforts are being closely monitored to ensure smooth execution.

“The festival aims to educate urban audiences about the contributions of tribal heroes to India’s freedom and sustainable development,” said a senior government official.

A Landmark Tribute

The Birsa Munda Festival 2025 is set to be a landmark tribute, blending culture, history, and national pride. Madhya Pradesh’s leading role in celebrating tribal icons underscores its commitment to honouring India’s indigenous heritage and the spirit of unity in diversity.