The Santal Rebellion 1855-1856: The Call of Thakur

The book offers a fresh perspective on the Santal Rebellion, challenging postcolonial approaches that overlook tribal perspectives and presenting a critique of the Hul as a class-based peasant rebellion. It analyzes the Hul and its participants, including the Santals and their opponents, the colonial administration, and the Bengalis. The author also explores the attempts of the Hul leaders, Sido and Kạnhu, to reform the Santal religion and argues that changes in Santal religion and ethics were responses to the colonial regimes aggressive economic order. The book calls for the inclusion of tribal and Adivasi minorities in politics for their development in the 21st century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 310 pages
Publication date: 22 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The book presents a fresh perspective on the Santal Rebellion, known as the Hul 1855-1856, by incorporating colonial sources and Santal memories. It critiques postcolonial approaches that overlook tribal perspectives and view the Hul as a class-based peasant rebellion. The author delves into the Hul and its participants, including the Santals and their adversaries, the colonial administration, and the Bengalis. Additionally, he examines the efforts of Hul leaders, Sido and Kạnhu, to reform the Santal religion. By offering a respectful interpretation of the Hul's religious legitimacy, the book argues that changes in Santal religion and ethics were responses to the colonial regime's new and aggressive economic order. The Hul leaders, Sido and Kạnhu, advocated for the introduction of just laws based on the universal principle of equality. This historical approach underscores the importance of including the voices of tribal and Adivasi minorities in formulating politics for their development in the 21st century.

The book holds significance for researchers and students specializing in social history, social reform, tribal and indigenous studies, postcolonial studies, and South Asian studies. Its insights shed light on the complexities of colonialism and its enduring impact on indigenous communities, offering valuable perspectives for understanding and addressing contemporary social and political challenges.

Weight: 770g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032273464