The Chanku Mahato Statue Unveiling occurred on 15 May 2025 at Bhalukabindha village, Chakulia Block, East Singhbhum, Jharkhand. This solemn event commemorated the sacrifice of one of Jharkhand’s earliest and most courageous tribal freedom fighters, Chanku Mahato. Graced by the Hon’ble Governor of Jharkhand, Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, this occasion blended cultural reverence and historical awakening.
🏛️ About the Event
📰 Source: Raj Bhavan Press Release – 15 May 2025
The unveiling ceremony drew crowds of locals, historians, political leaders, and admirers of tribal resistance. The statue stands as a tribute to Chanku Mahato’s role in leading indigenous revolts before the iconic Santhal Hul of 1855.
The event was organised by the Shaheed Chanku Mahato Smarak Samiti, and supported by the Government of Jharkhand. Garlands adorned the newly unveiled statue, and speeches were delivered that evoked pride and memory of the tribal rebellion spirit.
🔥 Significance of Chanku Mahato’s Legacy
Before Sidho-Kanhu’s Hul Kranti (Santhal Rebellion of 1855), Chanku Mahato was already raising the flag of resistance in the tribal belts of Jharkhand. His leadership was founded on protecting tribal rights and their socio-economic autonomy.
He is widely remembered for his powerful slogan:
“आपोन माटी, आपोन दाना, पेट काटी निही देबञ खजाना”
(We shall not sacrifice our grain or land to the treasury, even if it means starving.)
This quote resonates across generations as a symbol of resistance against exploitation and was reiterated by the Hon’ble Governor in his speech as the epitome of grassroots rebellion.
🧾 Governor’s Address Highlights
📜 Delivered by: Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Hon’ble Governor of Jharkhand
📍 Location: Bhalukabindha, Chakulia Block, East Singhbhum
Key Messages:
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Tribute to Chanku Mahato: He honoured his courage and said the statue is a “living memory of history”.
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Historical Relevance: Placed Chanku Mahato’s struggle as a precursor to the Santhal Hul.
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Cultural Pride: Urged universities to research unsung heroes like Mahato and document tribal resistance movements.
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National Security: Touched upon the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack, lauding Operation Sindoor as a strong message by India’s military against terror.
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Message to Youth: Called on students to study the legacies of regional heroes for historical justice.
🗿 Statue Unveiling: A Moment of Pride
During the Chanku Mahato Statue Unveiling, cultural performances, local tribal dances, and the display of traditional attire highlighted the heritage of Jharkhand’s Santhal community. The event also marked an emotional moment as descendants and villagers paid homage to their hero.
Local leaders and community heads emphasised how the statue will serve as a symbol of identity and inspiration for tribal youth, encouraging historical awareness and pride in one’s roots.
📌 Points to Remember
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🗓️ Event Date: 15 May 2025
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📍 Location: Bhalukabindha Village, Chakulia Block, East Singhbhum
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🙏 Presided by: Hon’ble Governor Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar
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🗣️ Key Quote: “आपोन माटी, आपोन दाना…” – A slogan by Chanku Mahato
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🔍 Historical Relevance: Preceded Santhal Hul of 1855; symbol of early tribal resistance
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🎓 Educational Message: Students urged to document tribal heroes
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🕊️ Security Note: Reference to Operation Sindoor against terrorism
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🎉 Organised by: Shaheed Chanku Mahato Smarak Samiti
📘 MCQs: Chanku Mahato Statue Unveiling – 15 May 2025
1. Who unveiled the statue of freedom fighter Chanku Mahato on 15 May 2025?
a) Chief Minister of Jharkhand
b) Home Minister of India
c) Governor Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar
d) President of India
✅ Correct Answer: c) Governor Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar
2. Where is the statue of Chanku Mahato located?
a) Bhognadih, Sahebganj
b) Bhalukabindha, Chakulia Block, East Singhbhum
c) Dumka city square
d) Hazaribagh Municipal Grounds
✅ Correct Answer: b) Bhalukabindha, Chakulia Block, East Singhbhum
3. What famous slogan is associated with Chanku Mahato?
a) Jai Hind!
b) Do or Die
c) आपोन माटी, आपोन दाना, पेट काटी निही देबञ खजाना
d) Inquilab Zindabad
✅ Correct Answer: c) आपोन माटी, आपोन दाना, पेट काटी निही देबञ खजाना
4. Chanku Mahato’s movement is considered a precursor to which major tribal uprising?
a) Kuki Rebellion
b) Santhal Hul
c) Moplah Revolt
d) Indigo Rebellion
✅ Correct Answer: b) Santhal Hul
5. What was the message of the governor regarding the research on tribal freedom fighters?
a) Their history is irrelevant in today’s politics
b) Only oral traditions should be preserved
c) Students should conduct field research in their native villages
d) Replace them with mainstream nationalist icons
✅ Correct Answer: c) Students should conduct field research in their native villages
6. What recent national security operation was mentioned during the governor’s speech?
a) Operation Blue Star
b) Operation Parakram
c) Operation Sindoor
d) Operation Cactus
✅ Correct Answer: c) Operation Sindoor
7. Chanku Mahato was mainly associated with:
a) Armed struggle in North-East India
b) Revolutionary groups in Bengal
c) Tribal movements in Jharkhand
d) Freedom movements in Maharashtra
✅ Correct Answer: c) Tribal movements in Jharkhand
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