Celebrating 200 Anniversary of Paika Bidroha 1817
& Rewriting of Indian History
The nation alongwith Odisha is commemorating 200 anniversary of Paika Bidroha. This is heartening for the people of Odisha that Government of India is giving the event its due recognition.
Paika Bidroha of 1817 in Odisha briefly shook the foundations of British rule in the eastern part of India. Paikas were essentially the peasant militias of Gajapati rulers of Odisha. They rendered military service to the king during times of war while taking up cultivation during times of peace.
Paikas unfurled the banner of rebellion under the leadership of Baxi Jagabandhu Bidyadhara against the British as early as 1817 to throw off the British yoke.
The British were initially taken aback and tried to regain lost ground. They faced stiff resistance from the rebelling Paikas. There were many a battle with some victories to the rebels but finally the British managed to contain rebellion within three months.
Widespread suppression followed. Many killed and imprisoned. Many more were tortured .
The Paika Bidroha enjoys a cult status in Odisha. The children of Odisha grow up with stories of the brave fight against the British.
Unfortunately Paika Bidroha received almost no attention at the national level even after seven decades of Independence.
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