Telanga Kharia (09 February 1806 – 23 April 1880)

Born on 9 February 1806 in Sisai Murge village.
Father: Duiya Kharia – a Pahan (village priest) and Bhandari (treasurer) of the Chotanagpur Maharaja.
Mother: Peto Kharia.
Known for being sharp-witted and talkative from childhood.
Due to his talkative nature, he was nicknamed Tedbalanga, which gradually changed to Telanga.
Though illiterate, he possessed exceptional leadership qualities.
Inspired and trained youth in bravery and weapons combat.
Married Ratni Kharia in 1846.

Mobilized the entire Kharia region under the Juri Panchayat.
Witnessed and was deeply affected by British exploitation and injustice.
He was aware of the Kol Rebellion (1831–32) and how the British had looted tribal lands.
Saw legal institutions (Dhana-Kachahari) being misused to seize tribal property and hurt religious sentiments.
A devout follower of his tribal religion.

Set up a martial training center at Sisai Bazaar Tanda.
Began a guerrilla warfare campaign against the British.
His movement gained wide support from not only Kharias, but also Oraons, Mundas, and Sadan communities.
The East India Company caught wind of his preparations and declared a manhunt, placing a bounty on him.

Despite several campaigns, Telanga Kharia evaded capture.
When unable to arrest him, the British harassed his family.
His followers were imprisoned to prevent further rebellion.
1857 Sepoy Mutiny was ultimately crushed by the British.
In 1859, the British introduced a new land tax law, which led to mass land auctions.
Christian missionaries helped converted individuals benefit by protecting their lands.

On 23 April 1880, while offering a prayer before conducting training at Sisai Akhara,
he was shot from behind by Bodhan Singh, who was lying in wait.
Telanga Kharia was martyred.
His followers buried him at Soso Neem Toli on the banks of the Koel River.
This place is now known as “Telanga Topa Tanda” and is a memorial site.

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