Hul Diwas is observed every year on 30 June to commemorate the Santhal Rebellion of 1855, one of the earliest organized tribal uprisings against British colonial rule. The revolt began at Bhognadih village in present-day Jharkhand under the leadership of Sidho Murmu and Kanhu Murmu, along with Chand, Bhairav, Phulo, and Jhano. It was launched against the exploitation by the British administration, moneylenders, and zamindars, as well as the loss of tribal rights over land, forests, and water.
Hul Diwas honours the courage and sacrifice of the Santhal people and highlights the significant contribution of tribal communities to India’s freedom struggle. In 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several state leaders paid tribute to the Santhal martyrs on the occasion.
