Meet the changemakers

Illustration: Sonal Goyal Excerpt:This is the story of Tilka Manjhi, whose resistance against the cunning oppressors created a template that would inspire tribal rebellions like the Halbas in 1774, the Bhils in 1818, the Kols in 1831 and the Santhals in 1855-56.Tilka was born on 11 February 1750 into a Santhal family and was named Jabra. His father, Sundar Murmu, was the chief of the clan, and Jabra was his heir.The tribe lived in the Rajmahal Hills, a densely forested area in the Chhota Nagpur Plateau (a region that spreads over Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha and Chhattisgarh).Growing up, Jabra prepared himself for his future role by gaining both physical strength and moral wisdom. Wrestling bouts and workouts with his friends, hunting wild animals, mastering archery and sword fighting, climbing trees and swimming in rivers turned him into a fearless and tough warrior. For spiritual growth, he turned to the teachings of Maran Buru, the supreme deity of the Santhal people.What’s the book about?It Takes a Tribe by Ramendra Kumar tells many different kinds of stories. The book takes us through different times, introducing revolutionaries, sportspersons, artists, teachers, environmentalists, and people who worked to help their communities. We meet inspiring people like Poorna Malavath, Dhaniram Toto, Dr C. Madegowda, Dayamani Barla, C. K. Janu, Dilip Tirkey and more. These are people who stood up against unfairness, protected forests, helped others and achieved things that many people thought were impossible.The story of these people is narrated with feeling and emotion, taking us through their dreams, struggles, fears, and challenges. Reading these stories makes us realise that these are real people, not just names in a history book. Their courage and determination make you want to believe that you too can make a difference.Would you like this book?Yes, you would. It has drama, adventure and history. You will discover nuggets that you will not find in the pages of your history book. The language is simple, yet engaging. The stories of people who fought for what they believed in or followed their passion make for a compelling read. The book is highly relevant in today’s changing landscape. It gives an idea of the struggles faced by tribal people even today. The stories emphasise environmental protection, displacement, education for all, gender equality, dignity, representation, and recognition.Though the book features only 25 people, you will get an idea of the struggles and victories of a tribe, a people ... those who wish to succeed against all odds. You will be amazed at how different each life is, how varied their struggles are and yet how their victory feels the same. Published - September 16, 2026 06:24 pm IST