Kherwar Movement (1874): JPSC/ JSSC/ PSC

Kherwar Movement (1874)

The Kherwar movement has a remarkable place in tribal reformist movements in Jharkhand. This movement initially taught monotheism and social reform, but just before its suppression, it took the form of a campaign against the activities of revenue endowment.

This movement was led by Bhagirath Manjhi of the Kherwar tribe. That is why it is called the 'Bhagirath Manjhi movement'.

Key facts of the Kherwar Movement (for MCQ):

• The Kherwar Movement was one of the non-violent struggles against British rule.

• This movement started in 1874 AD. Its leader was Bhagirath Manjhi.

• Its form was in no way different from the Safahor movement which manifested in its true form in later days.

• The credit for articulating this goes to Bhagwan Das (Rajmahal) and Lambodar Mukherjee (Dumka).

• Bhagirath had adopted a non-cooperative policy towards the British rule and by declaring himself the king of the village of Bounsi, he started the system of collecting rent himself by not paying rent to the landlords and the government.

• Later Gandhiji used to aspects to his non-cooperation.

• Bhagirath Manjhi was born in Taldiha village of Godda district where he has established a bench.

• The second phase of the Kherwar movement is considered to be the movement led by Dilemma Gossain against the 1881 census.

• Bhagirath Manjhi was known as 'Baba' among the tribals.

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