Introduction
Nabarangapur (also spelled Nowrangpur) in southwestern Odisha—once part of the Koraput subdivision—has a distinct yet under-recorded legacy in India’s freedom struggle. Though the colonial narratives of India often spotlight major uprisings like the Revolt of 1857, what transpired in Nabarangapur reflects both the broader themes of resistance and the unique local dynamics, particularly within tribal societies.
This article examines:
The administrative and social impact of British rule in Odisha and specifically in the Nabarangapur region
Early resistance movements across Odisha that shaped the local ethos
Tribal responses and leaders connected to Nabarangapur and neighboring areas
The watershed moment during the Quit India Movement of 1942 in Nabarangapur, and key figures such as Baga Pujari Munda
The legacy of these struggles in post-Independence Nabarangapur
- British Colonial Rule in Odisha: Setting the Stage
2.1 Annexation and Administration
In 1803, following victories in the Second Anglo-Maratha War, the East India Company annexed Odisha, absorbing it into British India.
Odisha was administratively fragmented: parts like Cuttack were under the Bengal Presidency; Ganjam and Koraput (which included Nabarangapur) were managed under the Madras Presidency; and central regions such as Sambalpur fell under the Central Provinces.
2.2 Revenue and Zamindari Policies
British land revenue settlements—including Permanent (Zamindari), Ryotwari, and Mahalwari systems—were introduced across different parts of Odisha, including Koraput. These destabilized traditional land relations and often led to exploitation of peasants and zamindars alike.
In particular, Permanent Settlement (established in 1793 by Cornwallis) had harsher effects in backward regions such as Odisha, causing loss of lands and significant distress among tenants.
2.3 Tribal Marginalization and Discontent
Under the Jeypore princely state—of which Nabarangapur was a subdivision—the colonial system marginalized tribal governance and economic systems. Traditional land rights and leadership structures were undermined by revenue officials, forest authorities, and police.
- Resistance Across Odisha: The Context for Local Movements
3.1 Early Rebellions and Tribal Uprisings
Khurda Rising (1804): Jayi Rajaguru led a rebellion against British annexation but was captured and executed.
Paika Rebellion (1817): Led by Buxi Jagabandhu, the Paikas—Odisha’s traditional militia—rose against exploitation of land rights and revenue policies. It spread widely across Odisha.
While some celebrate it as an “initial war of independence,” the ICHR has clarified that it was more localized, not matching the national scope of later revolts.
Other Tribal Uprisings: Throughout the 19th century, tribal communities—including the Kandha, Bhuyan, and others—led sporadic rebellions to protect their autonomy.
3.2 The Famine of 1866 and the Cultural Awakening
The Na Anka famine of 1866–67 devastated Odisha, claiming nearly one million lives. Negligent colonial response deepened resentment.
In response, Odia intellectuals like Babu Bichitrananda Das launched publications such as Utkala Deepika in 1866. Movements for Odia unity and recognition emerged strongly.
3.3 The Prajamandal Movements and Language Unification
The Prajamandal Movements (late 1930s) challenged the oppressive practices of princely rulers. They were instrumental in integrating princely states into Odisha.
Coupled with this was the Odia-language movement. The Utkal Sabha (1882) lobbied for unifying fragmented Odia-speaking regions. Samirdominant proposals emerged in the 1880s and 90s.
- The Freedom Struggle in Nabarangapur: Local History
4.1 Role of Nabarangapur in the Nationalist Movement
Activists from the region played a foundational role in establishing Congress units in Koraput, under which Nabarangapur fell.
Civil Disobedience & 1942 Uprising: On 24 August 1942, a mass protest was organized near Papadahandi. At the swollen Turi (Turee) River, police lathi‑charged and fired on demonstrators, leading to about 19 dead, over 100 injured, and more than 140 arrested.
4.2 Martyrdom in Koraput–Nowrangpur Detention Camps
Baga Pujari Munda, from the village of Bada Bharandi in Nabarangpur, was arrested during the Quit India Movement and detained in Nowrangpur Sub-Jail; he succumbed to poor conditions on 11 February 1943.
4.3 Nearby Resistance: Laxman Naik of Malkangiri
Though technically from neighboring Malkangiri, tribal leader Laxman Nayak (or Naik) exerted significant influence in southern Odisha, including Koraput and adjacent areas:
He mobilized tribal communities, promoted Gandhian principles, and led protests in 1942 at Mathili police station. The subsequent police firing killed 40 and injured 200+. Arrested, framed for murder, he was prosecuted and hanged on 29 March 1943.
4.4 Corroborating Records: Police Brutality Across Koraput
Across the broader Koraput region, including what later became Nabarangpur district, at least 24 people were killed in police firings during 1942, and around 100 suffered brutality in or around prisons.
- Aftermath and Legacy: Post-Independence Nabarangapur
5.1 Abolishing Zamindari and Administrative Changes
After Independence, Odisha’s assembly abolished all zamindaris—including Jeypore Zamindari (which encompassed Nabarangpur). The undivided Koraput district was reorganized into anchals, with Nabarangpur, Borigumma, and Umerkote forming subdivisions.
5.2 Refugee Resettlements and District Formation
In 1958, refugees from East Pakistan were settled in Umerkote subdivision through the Dandakaranya Project.
In 1991, these administrative subdivisions culminated in the formation of the separate Nabarangpur district, distinct from Koraput.
5.3 Remembering the Fallen
Despite these sacrifices, Odisha’s contributions—including those in Nabarangpur—have often lingered in obscurity. Historians highlight the need to preserve memory of martyrdom and revolt, such as the Papadahandi massacre, Laxman Naik, and tribal activists.
- Conclusion
The British colonial era left enduring legacies of economic exploitation, cultural disruption, and administrative fragmentation in Odisha—particularly in tribal-dominated regions such as Nabarangapur. But it also ignited sparks of resistance:
Early tribal and peasant rebellions across Odisha offered models of defiance.
Nabarangapur played a pivotal role in 1942’s Quit India Movement, with activists organizing, protesting, and bearing the brunt of colonial brutality.
Though less visible in mainstream narratives, figures like Baga Pujari Munda and broader local participants remain central to understanding the region’s contribution to freedom.
As Nabarangpur continues its journey beyond Independence, recognizing and honoring its past—the courage, sacrifice, and local leaders—remains vital for historical justice and regional identity.
Disclaimer
The views and interpretations expressed in this article are intended for educational purposes and do not represent official policy or historical consensus. While based on available historical sources, some local events and individuals may not be fully documented in mainstream records. I recommend consulting archival material, district gazetteers, and oral histories from Nabarangapur for a more nuanced understanding.
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