PM Modi to inaugurate India’s first digital museum on tribal freedom fighters in Naya Raipur
Raipur
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate a grand museum-cum-memorial at Naya Raipur Atal Nagar during the upcoming Rajyotsava celebrations, dedicated to commemorating Chhattisgarh’s tribal freedom fighters and their valiant revolts during the freedom struggle. This will be the country’s first digital museum devoted to tribal revolts and freedom struggles.
The museum will showcase and narrate the heroic tales of 16 tribal rebellions that took place in the region during India’s freedom movement. Final decorative work is currently underway before the inauguration. Officials from the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs recently inspected the museum complex and praised its scale, design, and vivid digital presentation.
Principal Secretary Sonmoni Borah said the museum symbolises the historical glory, valour, and sacrifice of Chhattisgarh’s tribal communities. He added that it will serve as a lasting reminder of their contribution to India’s freedom and inspire generations across the country and abroad. The presentation of tribal uprisings and heroes through digital and interactive media will be a key attraction. The entire complex is being equipped with modern amenities.
Borah informed that beautifully carved panels created by artists from Surguja will adorn the museum’s entrance. Inside the main door, a replica of a 1,400-year-old Sal tree has been installed, with its leaves depicting 14 major tribal rebellions.
Suggestions were made to develop a scenic pathway around the pond within the museum complex, install an aesthetic lighting system, and incorporate tribal art in the interior galleries.
During the visit of central officials, it was also suggested that original records related to the martyrdom of Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh—such as jail records and copies of sentencing orders—be preserved and displayed on the orientation room’s outer walls. OSD Ranjana Chopda further recommended that the sword associated with Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh’s struggle, provided by the local community, be showcased prominently.
She directed that audio-video and digital screens be installed to depict the Sonakhan rebellion, and that a documentary film on tribal history be screened. Each gallery will feature QR codes allowing visitors to access detailed information and accompanying music on their mobile phones. A selfie point will also be established at the museum.
The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Museum comprises 14 galleries that vividly depict the courage and struggle of tribal heroes who led various uprisings during the freedom movement in Chhattisgarh. These include the Halba, Surguja, Bhopalpatnam, Parlakot, Tarapur, Lingagiri, Koi, Maria, Muria, Rani Chauri, Bhumkal, and Sonakhan rebellions, along with the Jhanda Satyagraha and Jungle Satyagraha. Separate galleries are being developed for the two latter movements.
