Daijiworld Media Network - Aizawl

Aizawl, Nov 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday virtually inaugurated the Ropuiliani Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum (RTFFM) at Kelsih in Mizoram, commemorating the contributions and sacrifices of tribal leaders in India's freedom struggle.

The museum, named after Ropuiliani, a prominent Mizo chieftainess who resisted British colonial rule, was inaugurated on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, observed to mark the birth anniversary of legendary tribal freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda. This year marked the 151st birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, with celebrations held across the country.

Ropuiliani was among the early tribal leaders who opposed British rule in the erstwhile Lushai Hills, now Mizoram. She was arrested and imprisoned by the British before being taken to Rangamati in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT), present-day Bangladesh, where she died in captivity in January 1895.

The museum has been established at the Tribal Research Institute in Kelsih, a rural village and emerging recreational destination in the Aibawk block of Aizawl district.

According to an official statement issued by the Mizoram government, the museum complex comprises a museum building, an open-air theatre, a traditional hut, a heritage walk, the Birsa Munda Tribal Pride Garden, a cafeteria and staff quarters, among other facilities.

Ahead of the inauguration, Mizoram Governor General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd) visited the museum on November 10 to inspect the preparations and review the arrangements.

During his visit, the Governor described the museum as a significant tribute to the courage, sacrifices and contributions of Mizo freedom fighters to India's national freedom movement.

He said the institution would serve as a valuable heritage asset for Mizoram and the country while inspiring and educating future generations about the history and legacy of tribal freedom fighters.

The Governor also stressed the need to develop the museum into a world-class facility capable of attracting visitors, researchers and tourists from across the country and abroad.

The museum has been developed by the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs to commemorate the role of tribal freedom fighters in India's struggle for independence and highlight their contributions to the freedom movement.

A senior official said the ministry had provided Rs 25.59 crore for establishing the Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum.

The Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs is establishing 11 such museums across 10 states to commemorate tribal movements and uprisings against British rule and showcase the rich cultural heritage, history and traditions of tribal communities.

The initiative aims to preserve and promote the legacy of tribal freedom fighters while ensuring greater recognition of their significant contributions to India's independence struggle. A similar Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum is also being established at Tamenglong in Manipur.