Praja Mandal Movement in Odisha

Odisha Manthan

Introduction

The Praja Mandal Movement in Odisha was one of the most significant struggles of the Odia people against feudal oppression, fought within the princely states of Odisha. While British India was witnessing a rising tide of nationalism, the princely states of Odisha were still shackled under autocratic rule by native kings and zamindars, who often neglected the rights and welfare of their subjects. This movement represented the awakening of political consciousness among the people living in these regions. The Praja Mandal Movement was the people’s demand for responsible government, civil rights, and an end to feudal exploitation.

It paved the way for the integration of princely states into modern Odisha and India, and laid the foundation for democratic governance.

Praja Mandal Movement in Odisha

  1. Odisha's Political Scenario Pre-Independence
    • After the formation of the Odisha Province in 1936, many Odia-speaking areas still remained outside its jurisdiction.
    • These regions were part of 26 princely states, collectively known as the Garjat States (Eastern States).
    • People in these princely states faced despotic rule, oppressive taxation, forced labor (Bethi and Begar), and denial of basic rights.
  2. Princely States in Odisha
    • Major princely states where movements erupted included Talcher, Dhenkanal, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Nilgiri, Athgarh, and others.
    • These states were under feudal monarchies, where no constitutional governance existed, and the rulers enjoyed absolute power.

Causes of the Praja Mandal Movement in Odisha

  1. Feudal Exploitation and Oppression

    • Harsh taxation policies and economic exploitation by the rulers.
    • Forced labor systems (Bethi/Begar) where people were compelled to work without wages.
    • Denial of civil rights, including freedom of speech and assembly.

  2. Spread of Nationalist Ideas

    • Influence of the Indian National Congress (INC) and freedom struggle.
    • Educated youth and leaders inspired by Gandhian philosophy and social reform.

  3. Awareness and Rise of Political Consciousness

    • Formation of Praja Mandals (People's Associations) that represented the aspirations of common people.
    • Demand for democratic governance, abolition of unjust practices, and basic human rights.

The Beginning of the Praja Mandal Movement in Odisha

  1. Dhenkanal Movement (1930-31 and 1938-39)

    • One of the earliest and most prominent Praja Mandal movements.
    • Ruled by Maharaja Shankar Pratap Singhdeo, infamous for heavy taxation and forced labor.
    • Hero of the Movement: Harekrushna Mahatab, who led the Praja Mandal to mobilize peasants and workers.
    • People protested against the construction of palaces and industries using forced labor.
    • Repression: British Political Agents and the king brutally suppressed the movement.
    • Martyrdom: The killing of Baji Rout, a 12-year-old boatman, became a symbol of sacrifice and resistance.

  2. Talcher Movement

    • Initiated by Praja Mandal leaders in opposition to oppressive taxation and autocratic rule.
    • Focused on land rights and abolition of feudal levies.
    • Mass participation by peasants and tribal communities.

  3. Keonjhar Movement

    • Led by Dharani Dhar, popularly known as Keonjhar Gandhi.
    • Focused on land rights for tribal people and abolition of bonded labor.
    • The movement gained momentum among tribal peasants, fighting against economic exploitation and social discrimination.

  4. Nilgiri and Mayurbhanj Movements

    • Nilgiri: Protests against high land taxes and autocratic rule.
    • Mayurbhanj: Demand for civil liberties and participation in administration.
    • These movements were inspired by democratic ideals and nationalist leaders.

Formation and Role of Praja Mandals

Major Leaders of the Praja Mandal Movement in Odisha

Leader Contribution
Harekrushna Mahatab Leader in Dhenkanal; later became the first Chief Minister of Odisha.
Dharani Dhar (Keonjhar Gandhi) Led the Keonjhar Praja Mandal; fought for tribal rights and justice.
Bhagirathi Mahapatra Active leader in Talcher; mobilized people against feudal oppression.
Acharya Harihar Das Contributed to social reforms and grassroots mobilization.
Baji Rout The young martyr of Dhenkanal, symbol of bravery and sacrifice.

British and Feudal Response

Impact and Significance of the Praja Mandal Movement

  1. Political Awakening

    • Raised political consciousness among peasants, tribals, and common people.
    • Linked local struggles with the Indian National Movement.

  2. End of Feudal Exploitation

    • Created strong pressure on rulers to introduce reforms and improve governance.
    • Paved the way for the abolition of forced labor and reduction of unjust taxes.

  3. Integration of Princely States into Odisha

    • Strengthened the demand for integration of Garjat States with Odisha after independence.
    • By 1949, almost all princely states were merged into Odisha, completing its territorial unification.

  4. Foundation for Democratic Governance

    • Prepared the ground for democratic governance, constitutional rights, and people’s participation in administration.

Challenges Faced by the Movement

Conclusion

The Praja Mandal Movement in Odisha was a historic people’s movement that represented the fight for freedom, justice, and dignity within the princely states. It brought together peasants, tribals, and nationalist leaders in a common cause against feudal despotism and colonial apathy. The sacrifices of leaders like Baji Rout, Harekrushna Mahatab, and Dharani Dhar laid the foundation for a united, democratic, and modern Odisha. This movement not only secured political integration but also helped establish the democratic ethos that continues to guide Odisha today.

Every year, Baji Rout’s martyrdom and the legacy of Praja Mandal activists are remembered as a source of inspiration and pride for Odisha.

 

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Subject: Odisha Manthan

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