State marks 160th yr of Santhali revolt

BHUBANESWAR: Hundreds of Santhali people, who have migrated from across the state to the state capital in search of jobs, on Tuesday observed the 160th year of Santhal Rebellion for the freedom of India.
They organized various events related to Santhali tradition and cultural practices.
“It was a proud moment for us when 160 years ago Santhali people raised their voices against British rule.During the freedom struggle, more than 23,000 Santali people died and the British faced immense difficulty in suppressing the revolt. Succumbing to pressure, the Santal Pargana Tendency Act was formulated,” said Laxman Marndi, a tribal leader.
Hundreds of tribal people in their traditional attire celebrated the day by dancing to the beats of drums and singing. An archery competition was held on the occasion in which many tried their hand at the bow and arrow following the tradition of tribal communities.
“Very few people know about the Santhal Rebellion. Besides, under the influence of urbanization and modern lifestyle, many tribal youths are forgetting their traditional practices. So, we observe the day to keep alive our traditions,” said Salo Marndi, a member of the Odisha Adivasi Adhikar Mancha. Marndi said there are over one lakh tribal people are staying in and around the state capital. Of them, about 40,000 from Santali, Ho and Munda communities attended the event.