Administrator
30 June 2025
Despite clouds and drizzle, the Sidhu Kanhu Park was packed with morning walkers. There were 34 walkers at around 6-8 am. None of them were aware of the tribal heroes - Sidhu and Kanhu.
While the state is observing the annual Hul Diwas on June 30, commemorating the heroic Santhal Rebellion of 1855, which many tribal historians regard as India’s first war of independence, predating the 1857 revolt, their ignorance about Sidhu Kanhu in the capital city of Jharkhand is alarming.
Aware of their contributions, President Droupadi Murmu paid tribute to these two tribal warriors on ‘Hul Diwas’ (Rebellion Day) on Monday and said that the immortal tales of their struggle against injustice are an eternal source of inspiration for the people of the nation.
The state government offices were closed. However, in the absence of a campaign launched to apprise people of their background, the people, especially non-tribals, were ignorant about them.
Sidhu- Kanhu park Complex inside is serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This sprawling park is characterized by its lush greenery, manicured gardens, and well-maintained walking paths, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
Though this park is named after the two tribal warriors, there was no description of their deeds anywhere. In any case, the Hul Diwas 2025 once again reminds the nation of the sacrifices made by Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu, two brothers who had rebelled against exploitation and the British Rule in the Santhal Pargana division of Jharkhand.
They had led the Santhal uprising against British colonial rule from Bhognadih village in present-day Jharkhand.
Historically, this day marks the beginning of the Santhal Hul (rebellion). It was started on June 30, 1855.
Tribal leaders Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu initiated a massive uprising with support from their brothers Chand, Bhairav, and sisters Phoolo and Jhano, all of whom sacrificed their lives for India’s freedom.
The Santhal tribe, native to forested regions, were lured into the Damin-i-Koh area (now in Jharkhand) by the British in 1832 with promises of land and livelihood.
However, they soon found themselves exploited by zamindars and moneylenders (mahajans) under colonial rule.
