“Discover the inspiring stories of Jharkhand’s most iconic personalities — from tribal freedom fighters and political pioneers to Padma award-winning artists, athletes, and social reformers who shaped the state’s proud legacy.”
1. Birsa Munda – The Legendary Tribal Warrior
- Born on 15 November 1875 in Ulihatu village (Khunti district) in a Munda tribal family.
- His birth anniversary is celebrated as “Tribal Pride Day” (Adivasi Gaurav Diwas) by the Government of India since 2021.
- Although born on Monday, he was named “Birsa” based on Thursday (Brihaspativar) traditions.
- Birth name: Daud Munda
- Father: Sugna Munda (sharecropper of Ulihatu)
- Mother: Karmi Hatu Munda
- Elder Brother: Kunta Munda
- First teacher: Jaypal Nag
- Spiritual Guru: Anand Pandey, a Vaishnav saint
- Studied at German Evangelical Mission School
- Influenced by land struggles in Chaibasa during student life; joined Jungle movement of Chakradharpur at the age of 18
- Fought for tribal rights over forest and land
- Led a rebellion against landlords and moneylenders
- In 1895, he declared himself as a messenger of Singbonga (tribal deity)
- Founded a new religious sect called “Birsait Panth”
- Advocated monotheism (worship of only Singbonga)
- Declared Sarhna (sacred groves) as primary worship site
- Opposed animal sacrifice and alcohol (hadiya) consumption
- Promoted wearing of janeu (sacred thread)
- Leader of the Ulgulan (Rebellion) from 1895 to 1900
- Also known as Munda Rebellion / Birsa Movement
- Dombari Buru Hill was the central point of his movement
- In 1895, he was arrested by British for conspiring against the state, sentenced to 2 years imprisonment and a fine of ₹50
- Arrested by G.R.K. Meyers (Deputy Superintendent)
- Sentence extended by 6 months due to non-payment of fine
- A reward of ₹500 was declared for his capture; Veer Singh Mahli was one of the informants
- Re-arrested on 3 February 1900, died in Ranchi Jail on 9 June 1900 due to cholera
- On 15 November 2000, Jharkhand state was formed on his birth anniversary
- Called “Dharti Aaba” (Father of the Earth)
- His portrait is the only tribal leader’s portrait displayed in the Central Hall of Parliament
- Mahasweta Devi, a renowned novelist, wrote the novel “Aranyer Adhikar” (Right to the Forest) in 1975 based on his life
- In 2021, a memorial and museum called “Bhagwan Birsa Munda Smriti Udyan cum Freedom Fighter Museum” was inaugurated in Ranchi Jail premises by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
2. Sido and Kanhu Murmu – The Santhal Revolt Heroes
- Leaders of the Santhal Rebellion (Hul) of 1855–56 along with Chand and Bhairav Murmu
- Sido Murmu – Born in 1815,
Kanhu Murmu – Born in 1820,
Chand – 1825,
Bhairav – 1835 - Rebellion against British, landlords, and moneylenders
- Sido reportedly had a divine vision from Bonga deity, calling to destroy British authorities
- Slogan by Sido at Bhognadih village: “Do or Die – British, leave our land!”
- Chand and Bhairav died in combat; Sido and Kanhu were captured and hanged by the British
- Father: Chunni Manjhi
- Sido’s wife: Sumi
3. Tilka Manjhi – The First Tribal Freedom Fighter
- Real name: Jabra Pahadiya
- Born on 11 February 1750 in Tilakpur village (Sultanganj, Bhagalpur) in a Santhal (Murmu) family
- Father: Sundara Murmu
- Known as the “Aadi Vidrohi” (First Rebel) against British
- Started rebellion from Vancharijor (Bhagalpur)
- Sal leaves (Saal Patta) were used as symbols to spread the message
- Killed Cleveland, a British official, with an arrow
- Hanged from a banyan tree in 1785 in Bhagalpur
- First tribal martyr of Jharkhand
- In 1991, Bhagalpur University was renamed as Tilka Manjhi Bhagalpur University
4. Bhagirath Manjhi – The Kharwar Reformer
- Born in Taldih (Godda) in Kharwar tribe
- Known as Babaji
- Started the Kharwar Movement in 1874
- Initially focused on monotheism and social reforms
- Later transformed into an anti-land revenue movement
- Declared himself as king of Bosi village, called for refusal to pay rent
- Arrested in 1875, released in 1877, died in 1879
5. Veer Budhu Bhagat – The Larka Revolt Leader
- Born on 18 February 1792 in Silli village (Ranchi) in an Oraon family
- Leader of Larka Mahavidroh (1828–32) and also a key figure in the Kol Rebellion (1831–32)
- First revolutionary from Chotanagpur for whom the British announced a reward of ₹1000
- Killed on 14 February 1832 during British military action led by Captain Impey
- Died along with his brother, sons (Haldhar and Girdhar), and nephew, and 150 other revolutionaries
- On 13 October 2021, Indian Postal Department issued a special postal cover in his honor
Summary: Why These Leaders Matter
- These brave tribal leaders laid the foundation for India’s resistance against colonial and feudal oppression, often long before 1857.
- Their local uprisings and religious-cultural reforms shaped the identity of modern-day Jharkhand
- Their contributions are celebrated annually, and their lives are included in state-level exam syllabi
For Competitive Exams (JPSC/JSSC):
- Memorize birthplaces, dates, and key slogans
- Focus on firsts (e.g., Tilka as first martyr, Birsa as only tribal portrait in Parliament)
- Note the socio-religious reforms (e.g., Birsait panth, anti-alcohol stance)
- Link to current affairs (e.g., Tribal Pride Day, postal honors)
6. Jatra Bhagat – Founder of the Tana Bhagat Movement
- Born on 2 October 1888 in Chingri Navatoli village (Bishunpur, Gumla) in an Oraon family
- Father: Kohra Bhagat; Mother: Libri Bhagat
- Wife: Budhni Bhagat (Budhni Oraon)
- In 1914, while receiving spiritual initiation from Turiya Bhagat in Hesarag village, he attained self-realization
- Founded the Tana Bhagat Movement* – a cultural and spiritual movement influenced by Gandhian ideology
- In 1916, Jatra Bhagat and seven companions were arrested and sentenced to 1.5 years in jail, where they faced inhuman torture
- Died in 1916, just two months after his release from jail
- In 1948, post-independence, the Tana Bhagat Raiyat Land Restoration Act* was enacted by the Government of India
7. Raghunath Mahato – Leader of the First Phase of Chuar Rebellion
- Born in Ghutiadih village (Seraikela-Kharsawan district)
- Led the first phase of the Chuar Rebellion
- Gave the slogan: “Apna Gaon Apna Raj, Door Bhagao Videshi Raj” (Our village, our rule; drive out foreign rule)**
- Used guerrilla warfare tactics against British forces
- Killed by British troops on 5 April 1778 near Kita-Lotagaon (Silli, Ranchi) during a public gathering
- A short film “Mati ke Sapoot” was produced by Palash Film Production on his life
8. Chanakya Mahato – Voice of the Kudmi Rebellion
- Chanak Mahato, a Parganait in Kudmi self-governance system
- Mobilized people against British exploitation and linked his rebellion with the Santhal Revolt
- Famous slogan: “Apan Maati, Apan Daana, Pet Kaati Nahi Debu Khajana”
(Our soil, our grain; we won’t pay taxes by starving ourselves)** - Arrested in 1856 due to betrayal by Tap Narayan, and hanged by the British near Kashiya river in Godda
9. Ganga Narayan Singh – Leader of the Bhumij Rebellion (1832–33)
- Born in Barabhum royal family (Birbhum)
- Father: Lakshman Narayan Singh (Zamindar); Mother: Mamta Devi
- Led the Bhumij Rebellion (1832–33) in Manbhum; British referred to it as “Ganga Narayan’s Havoc”
- As a result of this rebellion, the British were forced to repeal several oppressive laws:
- Land Sale Law
- Succession Law
- Excise Duty on Lac
- Salt Law
- Forest Law
- Encouraged Ho tribes in Porahat and Chaibasa regions to fight against British and local chiefs like Thakur Chetan Singh
- In 1832, assassinated Diwan Madhav Singh
- On 3 February 1833, attacked Hindshahar Police Station
- Killed on 7 February 1833 by soldiers of Thakur Chetan Singh
10. Telanga Khadia – Organizer of the Jury Panchayat and Guerrilla Fighter
- Born on 9 February 1806 in Murmu village (Gumla) to a Kharia farming family
- Father: Duiya Khadia; Mother: Peto Khadia
- Founded the “Jury Panchayat” – a village-level tribal administrative system
- Led rebellion against British in 1849–50
- Arrested during a Jury Panchayat meeting in Kumhari village on 21 March 1852, and sent to Calcutta jail
- Released on 22 April 1880, but assassinated next day (23 April) by Bodhan Singh
- His burial site in Gumla is called “Telanga Topa Tand”
- Key Contributions:
- Refused to pay taxes
- Formed a parallel army and trained tribal youth
- Used guerrilla warfare tactics
- Fought for land restoration
- Established Jury Panchayats across villages
11. Rani Sarveshwari – Rebel Queen of Santhal Pargana
- Queen of Sultanabad (Santhal Pargana)
- Led a rebellion in 1781–82 with the help of Paharia Sardars
- Died in Bhagalpur jail on 6 May 1807
12. Poto Sardar / Poto Ho – Hero of the Serengsia Valley Battle
- Born in Rajbasa village (East Singhbhum), belonged to Ho tribe*
- Key leader of tribal resistance against British
- On 18 November 1837, organized Serengsia Valley Battle in Singhbhum
- 26 Ho warriors were martyred, several British soldiers killed
- Used a symbolic arrow given by Mangi Nayak to rally village support
- Hanged on 1 January 1838 by British in Jagannathpur (East Singhbhum)
- On 2 January 1838, many other tribals were also executed
- Rajbasa village was included in the Shaheed Gram Vikas Yojana
- In 2020, Jharkhand Govt launched the Poto Ho Khel Vikas Yojana
- Dutch researcher Dr. Paul Stoomer discussed Poto Ho in his book “A Land of Their Town”
Key Figures of the 1857 Rebellion from Jharkhand
13. Jamadar Madhav Singh, Subedar Nadir Ali Khan, and Subedar Jaymangal Pandey
- Were part of the British Indian Army and revolted at Ramgarh while en route to Hazaribagh under Lieutenant Graham
- On 3 October, Nadir Ali Khan and Jaymangal Pandey were arrested
- Both were hanged on 4 October 1857
- Madhav Singh escaped and avoided arrest
14. Pandey Ganpat Rai
- Played a crucial role in the Hazaribagh uprising of 1857
- Coordinated with Nagas King Vishwanath Shahdeo
- On 21 April 1858, hanged by British at Commissioner’s Compound, Ranchi
(now the site of District School, Ranchi)
Exam-Oriented Summary:
- Rebellions: Tana Bhagat Movement, Bhumij Rebellion, Chuar Rebellion, Jury Panchayat Uprising, Kol Rebellion, Santhal Hul
- Slogans to Remember:
- “Apna Gaon Apna Raj” – Raghunath Mahato
- “Apan Maati Apan Daana” – Chanak Mahato
- “Do or Die” – Sido Kanhu
- Firsts:
- Jatra Bhagat – Tana Bhagat founder
- Tilka Manjhi – First tribal martyr
- Telanga Khadia – Formed tribal administration (Jury Panchayat)
- Posthumous Honors:
- Statues, memorial gardens, government schemes, and postal stamps
15. Thakur Vishwanath Shahdeo – 1857 Revolt Leader from Ranchi
- Led the Hazaribagh rebels during the 1857 Revolt
- Betrayed by Vishwanath Dubey and Mahesh Narayan Shahi, leading to his arrest by the British
- Hanged on 16 April 1858 at a tree in the Commissioner Compound, Ranchi (now District School) *
16. Tikait Umrao Singh – Zamindar of Ormanjhi
- Zamindar of 12 villages in Ormanjhi
- Arrested on 6 January 1858 by British troops under Captain Macdonald with assistance from Madras regiment
- Captured along with his Diwan Sheikh Bhikhari and brother Ghasi Singh
- Hanged on 8 January 1858 at Chutupalu Valley from a banyan tree known as “Phansiyahi Vat”*
17. Sheikh Bhikhari – Diwan and Rebel Organizer
- Born in 1831 in Hokte village (Ormanjhi, Ranchi)
- Served as Diwan of Thakur Vishwanath Rai
- Recruited youth from Ranchi and Chaibasa into rebel forces of Barkagaon
- Hanged alongside Tikait Umrao Singh at Chutupalu Valley on 8 January 1858*
18. Nilamber–Pitamber – Tribal Brothers of Palamu
- Sons of Chemo Singh, who founded Chemo and Sanya villages
- Led the 1857 rebellion in Palamu region
- Betrayed by informers while hiding with family; arrested and hanged in April 1859 at Lesliganj (Palamu)*
- Nilamber–Pitamber University was established in their honor in 2009 in Medininagar
19. Raja Neelmani Singh – Raja of Panchhet
- Encouraged Santhals to revolt against British in 1857
- Arrested by Captain Mount Gomery in November 1857, and sent to Alipore Jail, Kolkata
20. Raja Arjun Singh – Porahat King and Rebel Supporter
- King of Porahat during 1857 revolt
- Provided shelter to rebel soldiers from Chaibasa
- Emerged as main rebel leader in Singhbhum region
- Died in Varanasi
Prominent Personalities – National Movement & Industry
21. Jehangir Ratanji Dadabhoy (J.R.D.) Tata – Father of Indian Civil Aviation
- Born on 29 July 1904 in Paris, France
- Father: J.N. Tata; Mother: Sooni Tata (French origin)
- In 1929, became the first Indian to obtain a pilot license*
- Founded Tata Airlines in 1932, later became Air India
- In 1953, Air India was nationalized
- One of the authors of the Bombay Plan (1944–45) for economic development
- Established Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in 1945 in Mumbai
- Served as Chairman of Tata Group (1938–1991)
- Became the first industrialist to receive Bharat Ratna in 1992*
22. Saraswati Devi – First Female Revolutionary of Jharkhand
- Born on 5 February 1901 in Hazaribagh
- Father: Shri Vishnu Dayal Lal Sinha, professor of Urdu, Persian, Arabic at St. Columba College
- In 1925, invited Mahatma Gandhi to Hazaribagh
- Arrested in 1929 for participating in the movement; sent to Bhagalpur Central Jail
- Served as MLA from Bhagalpur (1947–1952)
- Died on 10 December 1958*
23. Chunu Mahato – 1918 Protest Leader from Bokaro
- Prominent activist during 1918 movement
- Walked with a tricolor flag from Hazaribagh to Chatra, urging people to resist British rule
- Beaten brutally by police during Quit India Movement (1942) at Gomia police station
- Imprisoned in Hazaribagh Central Jail
- Deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi
- Walked barefoot to meet Gandhi during Ramgarh Congress Session
- His son Ratilaal Mahato is known as Gandhi Mahato*
24. Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata (J.N. Tata) – Founder of Tata Group
- Born on 3 March 1839 in Nausari, Gujarat
- Father: Nusserwanji; Mother: Jeevanbai
- Founded Empress Cotton Mill (1887) in Nagpur and Tata Swadeshi Mill for cotton spinning
- Conceived the idea of TISCO (Tata Steel), though established in 1907 by Dorabji Tata*
- Founded Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, and Taj Hotel, Mumbai
- Died on 19 May 1904 in Germany
25. Sakharam Ganesh Deuskar – Author and Nationalist Thinker
- Born in a Maratha family in Deoghar
- Wrote in Bengali, including:
- Tilker Mukadma
- Desher Katha (1904) – Analyzed economic impact of British rule
- Desher Katha was banned by British in 1910
- Served as associate editor of Bengali daily Hitavadi*
26. Nagarmal Modi – Swadeshi Movement Contributor
- Prominent figure in Swadeshi Movement
- Founded Abala Ashram in 1935 for widows and destitute women
27. Ram Narayan Singh – “Chotanagpur Kesari”
- Born in Tetariya (Chatra); profession: Lawyer
- Inspired by Gandhiji, he joined the National Movement
- Conferred the title “Chotanagpur Kesari” by Gandhi during Ramgarh Congress Session, 1940*
- Authored “Swaraj Lut Gaya”, a notable political work
Summary: Competitive Exam Highlights
- Important Martyrs: Tikait Umrao Singh, Sheikh Bhikhari, Vishwanath Shahdeo, Nilamber–Pitamber
- Firsts:
- Saraswati Devi: First jailed female revolutionary from Jharkhand
- J.R.D. Tata: First Indian pilot license holder
- Institutions Named:
- Nilamber–Pitamber University (Palamu)
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (Mumbai)
- Revolts & Slogans:
- “Apna Gaon Apna Raj” – Raghunath Mahato
- “Apan Maati Apan Daana” – Chanak Mahato
- Writers & Reformers:
- Sakharam Deuskar – Desher Katha
- Ram Narayan Singh – Swaraj Lut Gaya
Jharkhand Movement: Key Leaders & Contributors
1. Jaipal Singh Munda – Leader of Adivasi Identity & Jharkhand Party Founder
- Born on 3 January 1903 in Takra village, Khunti*
- Belonged to Munda tribe; original name was Venanh Paah
- After adopting Christianity, renamed Ishwar Das, and later renamed Jaipal Singh by a priest
- Married Tara Majumdar, daughter of INC’s first president Vyomesh Chandra Banerjee
- Second marriage to Jahanara, wife of British Colonel Ronald Cartish
- Sponsored to study in England due to his brilliance by St. Paul’s principal Canon Cosgrave
- Captained the Indian hockey team in 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, leading to India’s first Olympic Gold in hockey*
- Played a key role in formation of Adivasi Mahasabha in 1939
- Founded the Jharkhand Party in 1950 – first leader to demand separate Jharkhand state**
- The party became main opposition in Bihar Assembly (1952 & 1957)
- Merged Jharkhand Party with Congress in 1963
- Died on 20 March 1970 due to brain haemorrhage
- Reverently called “Munda Raja” and “Marang Gomke”*
2. Juel Lakra – First Padma Shri Adivasi from Jharkhand
- Born in Murgu village (Ranchi), in a Uraon family
- Founded Chotanagpur Unnati Samaj in 1915
- Also formed Young Chotanagpur teams for hockey and football
- First tribal from Jharkhand to receive Padma Shri (October 1947)*
- Died on 13 September 1994
3. Binod Bihari Mahato – Mass Leader and JMM Founder President
- Born on 23 September 1923
- Educated in Dhanbad; passed matric in 1941, obtained law degree in 1955
- Began legal practice under Avaneendranath Sinha in 1956 (Dhanbad)
- Fought legal cases for displaced people of BCCL, SAIL, Maithon etc. free of cost
- Known for transforming tribal movement into people’s movement
- Founded Shivaji Samaj (1969) to eradicate evils in Kurmi society
- Contested Lok Sabha elections (1971) from Dhanbad on CPI(M) ticket (secured 2nd position)
- One of the founding members of JMM (1973)*; became first president, Shibu Soren was general secretary
- Arrested under MISA during Emergency (1974); jailed in Bhagalpur and later Patna
- Won Assembly elections from Tundi twice, later became Sindri MLA
- Elected to Lok Sabha from Giridih in 1991
- Died on 18 December 1991 due to cardiac arrest in Delhi
- Popularly known as “Babu”
4. Shibu Soren – Dishoam Guru and Key JMM Leader
- Born in 1942, in Nemra village (Ramgarh)
- Original name: Shivcharan Lal Manjhi
- Father: Sobaran Manjhi; Mother: Sonamani
- Took leadership of Jharkhand Movement after Jaipal Singh’s death
- Led anti-moneylending and anti-usury movement in Santhal society
- Founded Sonot Santhal Samaj in 1970 to fight alcoholism and social evils*
- Joined Communist Party in 1970 and later co-founded JMM in 1973*
- On 23 Jan 1975, led a violent protest in Chirudih (Jamtara), resulting in 11 deaths
- Led Jungle Kato Abhiyan (1978), prompting central govt. intervention
- Elected MP from Dumka (1980)
- Co-founded All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU) in 1986 with Nirmal Mahato
- Due to JMM-led pressure, Jharkhand Area Committee (1989) and Jharkhand Area Autonomous Council (1995) were formed
- Three-time Chief Minister of Jharkhand
- Currently serving as Rajya Sabha MP
- Known as Dishom Guru and Guruji*
5. Nirmal Mahato – AJSU Founder & Martyr
- Born on 25 December 1950
- Started political career with Jharkhand Party
- Joined JMM in 1980 under Shailendra Mahato’s influence
- Elected President of JMM (1984); remained president until death
- Founded AJSU (1986) to mobilize youth for Jharkhand cause*
- Murdered on 8 August 1987 at Chamaria Guest House, Jamshedpur
6. Shaktinath Mahato – Martyr of Peasant Movement
- Born on 2 August 1948 in Dhanbad
- Father: Shree Ganesh Mahato; Mother: Sadhwa Devi
- Fought for exploited farmers and laborers
- Arrested during Emergency, jailed for 22 months in Bhagalpur Central Jail
- His inspiring quote: “Our struggle will be long and hard. The first generation will die, second will go to jail, third will rule—and finally, we will win.”
- Martyred on 28 November 1977 by gunshot
7. Shailendra Mahato – JMM MP & Historian of Jharkhand
- Born on 11 October 1953 in Chakradharpur (West Singhbhum)
- Joined politics at age 20
- Entered JMM in 1978, led struggles for water, forest, and land
- Served as MP from Jamshedpur
- Authored key books:
- Jharkhand Ki Samargatha
- Jharkhand Vidroh ka Itihas
- Adivasi-Kurmi Sangram
Summary of Key Highlights
| Category | Key Personalities |
|---|---|
| First Olympic Gold (1928) | Jaipal Singh Munda |
| First Tribal Padma Shri | Juel Lakra (1947) |
| Movement Philosopher | Binod Bihari Mahato (Babu) |
| Longest Serving CM | Shibu Soren (Dishom Guru) |
| Author of Jharkhand History | Shailendra Mahato |
| Student Mobilization (AJSU) | Nirmal Mahato (Founder) |
| Inspiring Martyr’s Quote | Shaktinath Mahato |
Droupadi Murmu – First Tribal Woman President of India
- Born on 30 June 1958 in Uparbeda village, Mayurbhanj, Odisha
- Father’s name: Biranchi Narayan Tudu, husband’s name: Shyam Murmu
- Former BJP MLA and Cabinet Minister in Odisha Government
- Served as the first woman Governor of Jharkhand
- Became the first tribal woman President of India*
Boniface Lakra – Catholic Reformer
- Founded Chhotanagpur Catholic Sabha in 1933
- First General Secretary was Ignace Beck
- Edited Mundari magazine ‘Jagar Sara’*
Sushil Kumar Bagh Baghun Sumbei – Jharkhand Party Leader
- Founded All India Jharkhand Party in 1967
- Also founded Akhil Bharatiya Adivasi Vikas Parishad in 1968
- Strongly opposed Christian missionary conversions*
A. K. Roy (Ajit Kumar Rai) – Leftist Labor Leader
- Organized coal mine workers of Dhanbad
- Founded Marxist Coordination Committee (MCC) in 1971
- Raised slogan for a separate state: “Lalkhand”*
- Declared traitor by Bihar Government
K. C. Hembrom – Painter of Tribal Life
- An internationally renowned painter
- Honored with Kalashri Award in 1989
- His paintings portray tribal life and culture
Father Camille Bulcke – Padma Bhushan Awardee
- Born in Belgium, later became resident of Jharkhand
- Researched and wrote in Hindi; first Hindi medium PhD in India
- Research topic: “Ramkatha: Origin and Development”*
- Created Hindi-English dictionary
Dr. Gabriel Hembrom – Herbal Medicine Expert
- Famous for curing incurable diseases like cancer
- Resident of Gumla district, specialist in tribal herbal treatments*
Kariya Munda – Senior BJP Leader
- Former Lok Sabha MP from Jharkhand
- Served as Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha
- Awarded Padma Bhushan in 2019 for social service***
Bheeshma Narayan Singh – Governor & Union Minister
- Born in Palamu
- Served as Union Minister, Governor of Assam & Tamil Nadu
Shrinivas Panuri – Father of Khortha Literature
- Born in Barwaddah (Dhanbad)
- Called “Bhishma Pitamah” of Khortha language*
- Authored 17 books in Khortha
- Major works: Ramkathamrit, Bal Kiran, Meghdoot, Parijat, Aparajita
Heroes of Valor and Freedom Struggle
Albert Ekka – Param Vir Chakra Awardee
- Born in Gumla district
- Lance Naik in Brigade of the Guards, Indian Army
- Martyred in 1971 Indo-Pak War
- Only recipient from Jharkhand of Param Vir Chakra*
M. S. Dhoni – Cricket Legend
- Born on 7 July 1981
- Former Indian Cricket Team Captain
- Achievements:
- ICC World Cup Winner (2011)
- T20 World Cup Winner (2007)
- Champions Trophy Winner (2013)
- Padma Shri (2009), Padma Bhushan (2018), Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (2007–08)*
- Led CSK to IPL wins in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023*
Deepika Kumari – Ace Archer
- Internationally acclaimed archer from Jharkhand
- Trained at Tata Archery Academy, Jamshedpur
- Awards: Arjuna Award (2012), Padma Shri (2016)*
- Won Gold in:
- 2010 Commonwealth Games
- 2021 Archery World Cup*
Sujit Munda – Blind Cricket Hero
- Member of India’s Blind Cricket World Cup winning team
- Nicknamed as “Jasprit Bumrah of Jharkhand”*
Hopon Manjhi – Freedom Fighter & Legislative Council Member
- Resident of Gomia (Bokaro)
- Active in Freedom Movement from age 30
- Jailed in 1930 for failing to pay Rs. 2000 fine
- Met Gandhiji in 1934, who visited his house
- Mobilized people on horseback during 1942 Quit India Movement
- Later elected to Legislative Council
- Died in 1990
Jeet Ram Bedia – 1857 Revolt Martyr
- Born on 30 December 1802, in Gagari village (Ormanjhi, Ranchi)
- Protested British hangings in Chutupalu Valley (1858)
- Martyred on 23 April 1858 in battle with British near Gagari
- Burial site known as “Ghodagadha (Bansargadha)”
- Name added to Jharkhand martyrs list in 2016*
Theble Oraon – Constitution Assembly Member
- Born on 25 November 1863, in Guddu Wazpur (Ranchi)
- Joined Congress in 1920, participated in many agitations
- Worked with several organizations:
- Chhotanagpur Unnati Samaj
- Oraon-Munda Education Society
- Sanatan Mahasabha
- Contributed to Kisan Sabha (1930)
- Member of Indian Parliament & Constituent Assembly
- Delivered speech in Kudukh in Lok Sabha*
Bulu Imam – Tribal Art Promoter
- Gave international recognition to Sohrai and Kohbar tribal folk art*
- Awarded Padma Shri in 2019*
Jamuna Tudu – Environmental Activist
- Known as “Lady Tarzan”
- Fought against deforestation and forest mafia
- Awarded Padma Shri in 2019*
Digambar Hansda – Scholar and Writer
- Contributed to education and literature
- Received Padma Shri in 2018*
Rajkumar Sudhendra Narayan Singh Deo – Chhau Dancer
- Internationally renowned performer and choreographer of Saraikela Chhau dance
- Recipient of Sangeet Natak Akademi Award*
Kedarnath Sahu – Chhau Dance Legend
- Globally acclaimed Chhau dancer
- Padma Shri Awardee*
Shriprakash – Documentary Filmmaker
- Known for making documentaries on serious Jharkhand issues
- His film “Buddha Weeps in Jadugoda” highlights uranium mine hazards
- Won international awards*
Mahavir Mahto – Tribal Folk Painter
- Expert in mud painting and Chhau dance illustration
- His artworks were exhibited at the International Art Festival in Thailand (2021)*
- Founded Chhotanagpur Lok Kala Sanskriti Institute
Anuj Kumar Sinha – Senior Journalist and Author
- Senior editor at Prabhat Khabar
- Recipient of Shankar Niyogi Journalism Award, Jharkhand Ratna, Saraswatar Hirak Samman
- Authored several books:
- History of Jharkhand Movement, Shoshit Sangharsh Shahadat, Dishom Guru: Shibu Soren, Bargad Baba ka Dard, Mahatma Gandhi’s Jharkhand Visit, Jharkhand: Politics and Situation
Chami Murmu – Environmentalist
- Received Indira Priyadarshini Vriksha Mitra Award* from Government of India
Dayamani Barla – Journalist and Activist
- Known as “Iron Lady of Jharkhand”
- Honored with the Counter Media Award for grassroots journalism
Savitri Puti – Hockey Pioneer
- First tribal woman international hockey player from Jharkhand***
Jhano Hansda – Champion Archer
- Gold medalist in Asian Championship, World Cup Archery, and other international competitions***
Subodh Kumar – Footballer
- Member of the Indian team that won gold in the SAFF Football Championship*
Sporting Icons & Cultural Stars of Jharkhand
Sumrai Tete – International Hockey Player
- Former captain of Indian Women’s Hockey Team***
Ansuya Lakra – Indian Women’s Hockey Team Player Vimal Lakra – Prominent Hockey Player
Rahul Banerjee – Archer
- Trained at Tata Archery Academy
- Gold medalist in Commonwealth Games*
Aruna Mishra – Boxer
- Gold medalist in Asian Games 2004 & 2005*
Chanchala Kumari – Wrestler
- First from Jharkhand to participate in Sub-Junior World Wrestling Championship*
Ashtam Oraon – U-17 Football Captain
- Captain of Indian team in U-17 FIFA Women’s World Cup (2022)
- Other players from Jharkhand under her captaincy:
- Neetu Linda, Anita Kumari, Purnima Kumari, Anjali Munda, Sudha Ankita Tirkey
Imtiaz Ali – Film Director
- Born in Jamshedpur, renowned Bollywood filmmaker
Tanushree Dutta – Actress
- Femina Miss India 2004, Bollywood actress
R. Madhavan – Actor
- Spent childhood in Jamshedpur, acclaimed Indian actor
Madhu Mansuri Hansmukh – Folk Singer
- Famous Nagpuri folk artist
- Composed movement songs during Jharkhand statehood struggle
- Padma Shri (2020), Jharkhand Ratna (2011)*
Shashadhar Acharya – Chhau Dance Expert
- Padma Shri recipient in 2020 for Chhau dance***
Chhutni Mahato – Social Activist
- Fought against witch-hunting (dayan pratha)
- Awarded Padma Shri in 2021*
Giridhari Ram Gonjhu – Nagpuri Writer
- Posthumously awarded Padma Shri (2022) for literature***
Dr. Janum Singh Soy – Ho Language Writer
- Padma Shri recipient in 2023***
Nandlal Nayak – Folk Musician and Director
- Composer for National Award-winning film ‘Amu’ (2005)
- Member of Sangeet Natak Akademi (2011)
Yashwant Sinha – Politician
- Former Finance & External Affairs Minister of India
- Started 11 AM budget presentation tradition in 2001 (earlier was 5 PM)***
Babulal Marandi – First CM of Jharkhand**
- Former Union Minister of Forest & Environment
- Founded Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik), later merged with BJP
- Lost son Anup Marandi in a Naxal attack (2007)*
Simone Oraon – Water Conservationist
- Illiterate but renowned environmentalist
- Known as “Pani Baba”
- Founded Jungle Suraksha Samiti
- Padma Shri recipient in 2016
- Cambridge University student earned PhD on his work***
Dr. Ram Dayal Munda – Scholar & Cultural Icon
- First nominated Rajya Sabha member from Jharkhand
- Padma Shri (2010), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2007)
- Died on 30 September 2011
Pt. Raghunath Murmu – Script Inventor
- Invented ‘Ol Chiki’ script for Santhali language*
Sachin Da – Photographer
- First Indian to receive United Nations Peace Medal*
Haren Thakur – Painter
- Famous for paintings themed on ‘Scarecrow (Bijuka)’
Mukund Nayak – Folk Singer and Dancer
- Known for Nagpuri folk music
- Founded ‘Kunjvan’ institute in Ranchi
- Padma Shri (2017), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2019)*
Vinod Mahto Rasleen – Folk Artist
- Revived horse dance tradition in Jharkhand
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2021), Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Award (2021)
- Founded “Jago Jagao Cultural Platform” (2017)
Subhashish Das – Historian and Author
- Resident of Hazaribagh
- Independent Megalith researcher
- Discovered Paleolithic era and archaeoastronomy insights
- His research is now part of Jharkhand school curriculum*
Riya Tirkey – Model
- Resident of Simdega
- Reached grand finale of Femina Miss India 2022*
Prabhat Kumar Mahato – Chhau & Paika Dancer
- Resident of Ichagarh (Saraikela-Kharsawan)
- Secretary of Nataraj Kala Kendra, Chog
- Performed Chhau dance during IPL events*
Padma Shri Awardees from Jharkhand – Summary Table
| Year | Name | Field |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | Dr. Parashuram Mishra | Science & Engineering |
| 2005 | Guru Kedarnath Sahu | Art |
| 2006 | Pt. Shyama Charan Pati | Art |
| 2008 | Mangla Prasad Mohanty | Art |
| 2009 | M. S. Dhoni | Sports* |
| 2010 | Dr. Ram Dayal Munda | Art |
| 2012 | Pt. Gopal Prasad Dubey | Art |
| 2013 | Premlata Agarwal | Sports |
| 2015 | Ashok Bhagat | Social Service |
| 2016 | Simon Oraon | Environment* |
| 2016 | Balbir Dutt | Literature & Journalism |
| 2017 | Deepika Kumari | Sports* |
| 2017 | Mukund Nayak | Art |
| 2018 | Digambar Hansda | Literature & Education* |
| 2019 | Jamuna Tudu | Social Service* |
| 2019 | Bulu Imam | Social Service* |
| 2019 | Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee | Health |
| 2020 | Guru Shashadhar Acharya | Art* |
| 2020 | Madhu Mansuri Hansmukh | Art* |
| 2021 | Chhutni Devi | Social Service* |
| 2022 | Giridhari Ram Gonjhu | Literature (Posthumous)* |
| 2023 | Dr. Janum Singh Soy | Literature & Education* |