Prime Minister inaugurates Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Memorial-cum-Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum in Chhattisgarh
Says, “This museum will continue to inspire generations with the courage and sacrifice of India’s tribal freedom fighters.”

Raipur/New Delhi, November 1, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Memorial-cum-Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum in Chhattisgarh. The museum stands as a living tribute to the valour, courage, and sacrifice of India’s tribal freedom fighters—especially the legendary Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh, who laid down his life resisting British oppression.

After inaugurating the museum, the Prime Minister toured its galleries, which vividly depict the heroic struggles of Chhattisgarh’s tribal communities against colonial rule. Extending his congratulations and best wishes to Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai for realizing the project with excellence, the Prime Minister said the museum beautifully presents the contributions of Chhattisgarh’s brave warriors to the nation and will continue to inspire future generations.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the Memorial-cum-Museum, symbolizing the glorious history, courage, and sacrifice of tribal communities, is dedicated to the people of Chhattisgarh and will preserve the stories of their ancestors for generations to come.

The Prime Minister was briefed on the museum’s key features by Principal Secretary Sonmani Borah, who informed that the project has been built at a cost of ₹50 crore and houses around 650 sculptures across 14 galleries. Digital installations have been developed to help visitors better understand the tribal uprisings against British rule.

On the occasion, the Prime Minister unveiled the statue of Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh, released the e-booklet “Aadi Shaurya,” and interacted with the descendants of Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh, inquiring about their well-being. Under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, the Prime Minister also planted a sapling in the museum premises.

The event was graced by Governor Ramen Deka, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram, Minister for ST, SC, OBC and Minorities Development Ramvichar Netam, Union Minister of State (Tribal Affairs) Durgadas Uikey, Union Tribal Affairs Secretary Ranjana Chopra, Principal Secretary (Tribal Welfare) Sonmani Borah, Director (Ministry of Tribal Affairs) Deepali Masirkar, Commissioner Dr. Saransh Mittar, Director TRTI Hina Animesh Netam, descendants of Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh, and representatives from State Tribal Research and Training Institutes.

Highlights of the Museum

The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Memorial-cum-Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum tells the story of Chhattisgarh’s tribal resistance through a series of thematic galleries:

• Reception Area: Introduces the theme—celebrating the courage, sacrifice, and heritage of Chhattisgarh’s tribal freedom fighters.
• Early Galleries: Depict the tribal way of life and the disruption caused by Maratha and British exploitation.
• Freedom Struggles: Cover major uprisings such as Halba Kranti, Sarguja Kranti, Bhopalpattanam Kranti, Paralkot Kranti, Tarapur Kranti, Meria Kranti, Koi Kranti, Lingagiri Kranti, Muria Kranti, and the iconic Bhumkal Kranti led by Gundadhur and Lal Kalindra Singh.
• Women’s Resistance: Highlights the Rani Cho-Ris Kranti (1878) — a pioneering women-led protest.
• Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh and the 1857 Revolt: Chronicles his defiance against British tyranny and martyrdom during Chhattisgarh’s first freedom struggle.
• Freedom Movement Participation: Showcases Jhanda Satyagraha and Jungle Satyagraha, reflecting tribal participation in Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violent movements.
• Memorial Area: Pays homage to Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh, symbolizing the culmination of tribal resistance and contribution to India’s freedom movement.

Through its 650 sculptures, digital storytelling, and cultural exhibits, the museum serves as a national center for learning and inspiration — honoring the unsung heroes of India’s tribal heritage.

🔗 Watch the inauguration live on YouTube

(Source: Ministry of Tribal Affairs / PIB Delhi)