KKN Gurugram Desk |  April 4th marks the death anniversary of two unsung heroes from the Ghumla region of Jharkhand, Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh. These legendary figures are remembered for their relentless fight against the British East India Company during the colonial era. Their stories of valor and defiance against the British army resonate in the valleys of Raidiya even today, inspiring generations with their sacrifice and bravery.

The Legacy of Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh

Ghumla, a region in Jharkhand, produced many brave sons who stood against the colonial forces, one of the most significant among them being Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh. Both played a crucial role in resisting British domination, displaying unmatched courage and leadership. Their legendary acts of bravery continue to be honored in the region even today, where locals celebrate their heroism with reverence.

The region of Raidiya, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance, echoes the tales of their heroic deeds. Despite their ultimate martyrdom, the courage of Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh remains etched in the hearts of the people of Ghumla, particularly in the areas of their struggle.

The Battle Against the British Forces

Bakhtar Sai, a Zamindar of the Nawagarh Paragana (currently part of Raidiya block), was among the first to defy the British East India Company’s oppressive rule. Known for his intelligence and resourcefulness, Bakhtar Sai led a relentless resistance against the British forces, much to the dismay of the colonial administration. His actions were not just symbolic resistance but a real threat to British control in the region.

Bakhtar Sai’s bravery took a significant turn when he decapitated Heera Ram, a tax collector sent by the British to impose heavy taxes on the local people. Heera Ram’s execution was a direct challenge to the British forces and the Maharaja of Chotanagpur, Hridaynath Shahdev, who had signed an agreement with the British. This act infuriated the British, leading to a series of military expeditions against Bakhtar Sai.

In response to Bakhtar Sai’s defiance, the British sent a military unit under the leadership of Lieutenant H.O. Donnell to capture him. This led to a protracted battle between the local fighters, including Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh, and the British forces.

The Role of Mundal Singh in the Resistance

Mundal Singh, another local hero from the region, played an integral role in the resistance against the British. As the situation escalated, the British forces began to surround the area of Nawagarh. The local community, led by Bakhtar Sai, was determined to defend their land and culture. When the British closed in on Nawagarh, Mundal Singh quickly mobilized his forces to support Bakhtar Sai in their fight.

Both Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh took refuge in the caves of the Nawagarh area, using their intimate knowledge of the local terrain to evade capture. The caves, which still stand today as a symbol of their bravery, were the hideouts where they planned their resistance and strategized their next move. Locals often recall how these caves became a symbol of defiance, representing the undying spirit of the resistance movement against the British.

The British Strategy and the Heroes’ Betrayal

In their pursuit of Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh, the British forces employed various strategic tactics. They not only surrounded Nawagarh but also cut off the water supply to the region by contaminating the river that supplied water to the caves. This cruel strategy left Bakhtar Sai, Mundal Singh, and their warriors without access to drinking water, forcing them to retreat.

The tactics of the British army, however, led to the eventual betrayal of the two heroes. In 1812, Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh sought refuge with the King of Jashpur, Ranjit Singh, hoping for sanctuary. However, their escape was short-lived, as they were eventually captured on March 23, 1812.

On April 4, 1812, the two heroes were hanged at Fort William in Calcutta, marking a tragic end to their valiant resistance against British colonial forces. Despite their deaths, their legacy continued to inspire countless freedom fighters who followed in their footsteps.

The Historical Sites of Valor

The region where Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh fought remains a significant historical site to this day. Several landmarks, including the famous Rakt Talab (Blood Pond) in Nawagarh, where the water turned red during the battles, and the Shivling that both Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh used to worship, still exist. These sites serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these heroes in their struggle against British oppression.

Locals believe that the Rakt Talab symbolizes the bloodshed and the relentless struggle fought by the warriors, while the Shivling represents the faith and determination that guided them throughout their resistance. The remnants of these sites, like the caves at Nawagarh, continue to attract those interested in the history of Jharkhand’s resistance against colonial rule.

The Enduring Legacy

Today, the brave deeds of Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh are honored annually on their death anniversary, April 4th. In Ghumla and surrounding regions, the stories of their resistance are passed down from one generation to the next. Local folklore, songs, and tales keep the spirit of these two warriors alive, ensuring that their contributions to India’s fight for freedom are never forgotten.

Though both men were martyred, their sacrifices played a pivotal role in igniting the spirit of rebellion against British imperialism in the region. Their courage became a beacon of hope for others who would later rise up against the British colonial regime.

In the present day, Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh are celebrated not just as local heroes but as symbols of India’s undying spirit of resistance. Their names are etched in the annals of history, and their legacy serves as an inspiration for future generations to stand against tyranny, no matter the odds.

The death anniversary of Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh is not just a day of remembrance; it is a tribute to the spirit of resistance that runs deep in the hearts of the people of Jharkhand. The courage displayed by these two men, in the face of overwhelming odds, continues to resonate today, reminding us of the sacrifices made by countless freedom fighters.