Question 46 from UPSC CSE 2020 - MODERN INDIA

Question

With reference to the history of India, 'Ulgulan' or the Great Tumult is the description of which of the following events?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. Birsa Munda's Revolt of 1899-1900

Strategy: *   Identify 'Ulgulan' as the unique keyword.
*   Associate 'Ulgulan' directly and exclusively with tribal uprisings led by Birsa Munda.
*   Note that The Revolt of 1857, Mappila Rebellion, and Indigo Revolt are not linked to this term.
*   Utilize this exclusive association to eliminate other options.

Key Info: Ulgulan, meaning 'Great Tumult' or 'Great Rebellion,' specifically refers to the tribal uprising led by Birsa Munda between 1899 and 1900 in the Chhotanagpur region (modern-day Jharkhand).

**Key Aspects of the Ulgulan:**
*   **Leadership and Mobilization** -- Birsa Munda mobilized the Munda tribal community against exploitative practices by landlords (dikus), moneylenders, and British colonial authorities.
*   **Causes** -- The Mundas' traditional _khuntkatti_ system (communal landholding rights) was threatened by encroachment and revenue demands.
*   **Demands** -- The movement sought restoration of Munda autonomy, socio-religious reform, and a return to traditional governance (Munda Raj). Birsa Munda acted as a messianic leader, blending indigenous customs with reformist zeal.
*   **Outcome** -- The rebellion was suppressed but led to legislative changes, including the Chhotanagpur Tenancy Act (1908), which secured land protection for tribals and outlawed forced unpaid labor (_beth begari_).

The Ulgulan is a foundational event in Indian tribal history, symbolizing resistance against colonial and feudal oppression.

**Distinguishing from Other Events:**
The Revolt of 1857 (a widespread military-civilian uprising), the Mappila Rebellion (a Malabar agrarian-Muslim uprising, 1921), and the Indigo Revolt (Bengal farmers' protest, 1859-60) have no historical linkage to the term 'Ulgulan' or Birsa Munda.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: The Revolt of 1857

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: The Mappila Rebellion of 1921

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: The Indigo Revolt of 1859-60