Nava Raipur Inaugurates Veer Narayan Singh Memorial & Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum
Nava Raipur, Chhattisgarh – In a ceremony held on November 1, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Memorial and Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum in Nava Raipur. This state-of-the-art museum is dedicated to honoring the courage, sacrifices, and unwavering spirit of the tribal freedom fighters who played a vital role in India's independence struggle.
The museum stands as the country's first fully digital tribal museum. It employs modern technology and virtual reality to showcase tribal life, the stories of tribal heroes, and their unique folk culture. Sixteen galleries within the museum chronicle pivotal moments in tribal resistance history, highlighting the determination and courage of tribal communities. Exhibits include original artifacts, historical documents, photographs, and interactive displays, offering visitors an immersive journey through the struggles and sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom.
The museum aims to preserve and showcase the significant contributions of tribal communities to the freedom movement against British rule. It documents the remarkable contributions of tribal leaders who led resistance movements across different parts of India. One notable exhibit spotlights the Bhumkal Revolt of 1910, also known as the Bastar Rebellion, a major tribal uprising against British colonial rule led by Gunda Dhur. This revolt united multiple tribal communities, including the Muria and Maria peoples of the Bastar region, against exploitative taxation, forced labor, and restrictions on traditional forest rights.
During the inauguration, the Prime Minister launched the Museum Portal and an e-book titled "Aadi Shourya," which honors freedom fighters. He also unveiled a horse-mounted statue of Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh at the memorial site. In addition, a "selfie with Modi ji" feature, powered by artificial intelligence, has been integrated to enhance the visitor experience.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai stated that the museum will narrate the story of the tribal struggle and movement against oppression. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that future generations are aware of their heritage and legacy, and of preserving the struggles undertaken by tribal communities to protect their interests and cultural heritage.
The museum provides various amenities, including a restaurant, accessible washrooms, and a children's play area. Guided tours in English and Hindi are available daily at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. The museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
The inauguration of the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Memorial and Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum is part of Prime Minister Modi's day-long visit to Raipur, which also includes the inauguration of the new Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly building, the unveiling of a statue of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and participation in the Silver Jubilee celebrations marking 25 years of Chhattisgarh's formation. He also inaugurated the Shanti Shikhar of the Brahma Kumaris, a center for spiritual learning and meditation. Furthermore, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over fourteen thousand crore rupees in sectors including roads, industry, healthcare and energy.
The Prime Minister's visit underscores the government's commitment to the development of the nation through the progress of its states, and recognizes the significant role of organizations like the Brahma Kumaris in this endeavor.
