Every year on 17 November, Rajasthan’s Mangarh Dham observes a solemn remembrance of one of the least-discussed but most brutal massacres under British rule. On this day in 1913, the British army opened fire on Bhil tribals gathered on Mangarh Hill, killing around 1,500 people. The gathering was not for rebellion but for reform, driven by the powerful spiritual-social movement known as the Bhagat tradition.
The event is widely recognized today as the “Jallianwala Bagh of the Bhils.”
Why Did the British Attack Mangarh Hill?
On 17 November 1913, nearly 4,000 Bhil tribals had assembled at Mangarh Dham under the guidance of Govind Guru, the founder of the Bhagat tradition. The purpose of the assembly—called the Samp Sabha—was to collectively renounce social evils such as:
- Meat consumption
- Alcoholism
- Exploitative revenue practices
The British administration perceived this mass mobilization as a threat. The unity and moral awakening among tribals challenged the exploitative revenue system and weakened colonial control. In response, Major Sutton led British forces and ordered indiscriminate firing on the unarmed crowd.
The Bhagat Tradition: A Movement of Reform, Restraint, and Social Strength
The Bhagat tradition, started by Govind Guru, was rooted in spirituality and social reform. Its teachings emphasized:
- Abstinence from alcohol and meat
- Moral living and self-restraint
- Ending corruption, theft, violence, and robbery
- Promoting equality and agricultural progress
- Opposing extravagant weddings and dowry
Even today, the tradition remains alive in Vagad, especially in the tribal belt of Banswara, Dungarpur, and nearby regions.
Flags That Speak Traditions
Tribal households display three symbolic flags:
- White flag – purity, abstinence from intoxicants
- Ochre flag – sacrifice, discipline, moral commitment
- Green flag – harmony with nature, agricultural growth
These symbols guide tribal communities toward a life of simplicity, honesty, and social responsibility.
Bhagat Tradition Meetings Continue Today
According to Kanhaiyalal Khant, history lecturer at Kushalgarh College, village meetings based on Bhagat principles are held regularly across Vagad. Although sometimes viewed through a political lens, these gatherings successfully build consensus on issues like:
- Alcoholism
- Dowry
- Lavish spending in weddings
- Domestic violence
- Social justice
Khant notes that even if such meetings increase near election periods, their impact on social reform is undeniably positive.
Mangarh Dham: A Symbol of Tribal Freedom Struggle
Despite being lesser known compared to Jallianwala Bagh, the Mangarh massacre stands as a major chapter in India’s freedom movement, especially for tribal communities. Govind Guru’s legacy continues to inspire millions, reminding the nation of the sacrifices made by Bhils for freedom and dignity.
Conclusion
As India observes Mangarh Dham Day, it pays tribute not just to the 1,500 martyrs of 1913 but also to the enduring Bhagat tradition, which continues to uphold social reform, discipline, and community integrity among tribal societies across Rajasthan and neighboring regions.