Bhima Koregaon: A war that is still going on today!
There have been many battles in India, but the battle of Bhima Koregaon was not just about swords but it was a battle for dignity, honour and rights. A small battle that took place in 1818 is still a symbol of inspiration for many people. But in today’s time, the name of this place is also associated with controversy, protests and arrests. So what is the truth? What does history say? And what does it mean in the present?
The Bhima Koregaon battle, fought on January 1, 1818, was a major confrontation between the British East India Company and the Peshwa faction of the Maratha Confederacy at the village of Bhima Koregaon near Pune, Maharashtra. This battle, part of the Third Anglo-Maratha War, resulted in a British victory, though with significant casualties on both sides.
Battle of Bhima Koregaon (1818): A small battle, a big victory
Dalit (mostly Mahar caste) soldiers of the British East India Company’s army defeated the Peshwa army. This victory became a symbol of resistance for those who had faced oppression for centuries.
The battle of Bhima Koregaon was not just a small military battle but it was a symbolic war which took a stand against centuries of injustice. On 1 January 1818, a battle took place between the British East India Company and Peshwa Bajirao II in Bhima Koregaon village of Maharashtra. The British army had 500-600 soldiers, of which a large number were Mahar Dalit soldiers.
On the other side, the Peshwa army had more than 20,000 trained soldiers. Yet despite this, the British-Mahar army stopped the Peshwa forces, foiled their march – and this became a psychological and symbolic victory.
2018 Violence & Controversy: A peaceful day that caught fire
During the 200th anniversary there were riots, arrests were made, and the Bhima Koregaon Elgar Parishad case made headlines at the national level. This incident raised questions on freedom of speech, caste politics and government crackdown.
1 January 2018 — It was the 200th anniversary of Bhima Koregaon victory day. As happens every year, thousands of people came from across Maharashtra (and India) to pay tribute to the Victory Pillar. But this time the atmosphere was different…
The day which started peacefully, suddenly turned into riots and violence. Stones were pelted, vehicles were burnt, one person died and many people were injured.
How did the controversy start?
Some people said that the violence was pre-planned so that the peaceful protest and celebration of the Dalit community could be disrupted.
On the other hand, some groups said that “provocative speeches” were given at the Elgar Parishad, which was held in Pune on 31 December 2017 (a cultural event) – which instigated the crowd.
So the question arises:
- Was the Bhima Koregaon violence a planned political conspiracy?
- Or a natural source of reducing tension?
- Was the government really protecting national security, or crushing dissent?
The truth is still blurred and the case is going on in the courts. But one thing is certain – Bhima Koregaon of 2018 was not just an incident, it became a turning point in the caste and civil rights discourse of modern India.
Why is this place important even today?
Every year on 1 January lakhs of people gather at Bhima Koregaon to pay a peaceful tribute. For them it is a moment of pride, a memory that they never gave up.
For the Dalit community, Bhima Koregaon is such a memorable place where they got respect, such a battle where their name was written in the pages of history – not as victims, but as warriors.
- Every year on January 1st, it’s a peaceful celebration – with emotions, not speeches.
- People coming here feel unity, pride and resistance.
Bhima Koregaon remains an emotional landmark — but as with every major symbol, it has come on the radar of politics.
- Some political parties highlight this issue for vote bank.
- On the other hand, some right-wing groups see this event as an anti-national or divisive narrative.
- After the Elgar Parishad case, there was a division in the public discourse regarding this symbol – “Heroic or problematic?”
Media and Public Opinion:
- The media coverage is also polarised – some call it a civil rights movement, others an urban Naxal conspiracy.
- The youth is confused: “What is truth?” Amidst this confusion, the real focus — social justice and equality — is getting diluted.
Battle of the past, lesson of the present:
Bhima Koregaon is not just an old battle but a timeless reminder that the fight for dignity, equality and justice is never old.
In today’s digital era, we have become so engrossed in the stories of others that we have either forgotten our own story or have never heard it again.
Events like Bhima Koregaon are not just dates or facts but they are silent chapters of our identity. Only those people are able to make their place in the world who connect with their roots.
Raise Your Voice When Everyone Is Silent:
Raising your voice is not just a protest, it is a message that we no longer want to live in the habits of insiders. When you speak, you do not speak just for yourself, but for all those who are unable to speak or are daring to speak.Sometimes everyone is silent because either they are scared or have lost in front of the system. But that is when it is important for someone to speak up. When everyone is silent, your one voice can wake up the whole atmosphere.If even a single voice is raised, the spell of silence is broken.
So don’t be afraid, don’t stop – raise your voice for the truth, even if you are alone. Because change comes only when you find someone who speaks the truth amidst the silence.
Bhima Koregaon reminds us that progress happens when we feel proud of our identity, and also respect the identities of others.
So if you are a youth, confused, or feel different – read the story of this battle once. Maybe you will also understand your role… in society, and in history.
The story of Bhima Koregaon begins with a battlefield, but its impact reaches every person who has won for dignity and justice. Perhaps this is why today’s generation needs to study history – so that we can make tomorrow better.
Jai bheem