The famous tribal uprising in Bihar known as Ulgulan, meaning Great Tumult, was led by which tribal leader?

Introduction / Context:
Tribal uprisings formed an important part of resistance to colonial rule and exploitative systems in British India. One of the best known of these was Ulgulan, literally meaning Great Tumult, which took place among the Munda tribal population in the Chotanagpur region. The leader of this movement, Birsa Munda, has since become a symbol of tribal resistance and assertion.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The movement mentioned is Ulgulan, a tribal rebellion in Bihar.
• The question asks for the name of its leader.
• Options include Kanhu, Sidhu, Birsa Munda, and Rampa Munda.

Concept / Approach:
Different tribes and regions had different leaders in their revolts. Ulgulan refers specifically to the Munda uprising of the late 19th century. Birsa Munda emerged as its central figure, combining religious reform with political resistance against zamindars, moneylenders, and the colonial state. Sidhu and Kanhu are associated with the Santhal rebellion, while Rampa Munda is not the standard name linked with Ulgulan. Therefore, we must match Ulgulan with Birsa Munda.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify Ulgulan as the Great Tumult connected with the Munda tribe in the Chotanagpur region. Step 2: Recall that Birsa Munda was a charismatic leader who led this movement against colonial exploitation. Step 3: Recognise that Sidhu and Kanhu were leaders of the Santhal rebellion, a different tribal uprising. Step 4: Note that the name Rampa Munda does not correspond to a widely known leader of Ulgulan. Step 5: Conclude that the correct leader associated with Ulgulan is Birsa Munda.

Verification / Alternative check:
Modern Indian history textbooks and government records celebrating tribal freedom fighters clearly identify Birsa Munda as the leader of Ulgulan. Commemorations such as Birsa Munda Jayanti further confirm his central role.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Sidhu and Kanhu led the Santhal uprising, not Ulgulan. Linking them to Ulgulan confuses separate tribal movements. Rampa Munda does not appear in standard accounts as the leader of the Munda Great Tumult movement.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners mix up different tribal revolts or simply remember names without associating them with specific events. A clear mental mapping of which leader led which movement prevents such confusion.

Final Answer:
The Ulgulan or Great Tumult in Bihar was led by Birsa Munda.