Article summary
Abstract
Shri Birsa Munda, known popularly amongst the common masses as Bhagwan Birsa Munda and Dharti Abba, was a legendary freedom fighter, social reformer and the voice of the Indian Independence Movement and the Tribal Movement in the region of Bengal Presidency (modern day Jharkhand) in the 19th century. Being the voice of the masses, he advocated for, and worked for ensuring community welfare, cultural preservation, and the empowerment of tribal community throughout his lifetime. His vision of cultural pride, self-rule and social justice has deeply influenced educational reforms aimed towards development of an inclusive and empowering system of education, for the ultimate goal of empowering the society through the means of education. This research explores how his vision and ideals have inspired educational reforms aimed towards cultural inclusion, social equity and empowerment of tribal populations. Through an analysis of policy developments, curriculum changes and initiatives, the paper focuses on how Birsa’s ideals have had an inspirational effect on educational reforms.