LALMONIRHAT, Jan 7: Members of Nuruldin Memorial Library at a bordering village imbibed with spirit, brevity, courage and leadership of renowned rebel leader of days long gone by, have initiated a move to transform the historic Nuruldin Mancha (stage) into a more befitting one.
The members of the library under the leadership of Union Parishad Chairman Habibur Rahman Habib, at a recent meeting, have decided to collect funds for renovation of the Mancha to make it modernised.
Rebel farmer hero Nuruldin launched mutiny against British Raj from bordering village Moghalhat in the district in 1783.
The place historically known as the gathering venue of rebel farmers led by their leader Nuruldin who conducted mutiny for several months against land-tax by the British Raj from Moghalhat village. Nuruldin also tried to build awareness among the farmers here to stop the land-tax imposed by the ruler. Forming a bahini (gang) joined by a large number of farmers from different areas, he launched fight against the exploitation by the intruders. The rebels awarded Nabab title to their leader in 1782.
British soldiers led by Lieutenant MacDonald attacked the rebel farmers at Moghalhat village in pursuance of the order of the then Rangpur collector. Many farmers were killed and seriously injured Nuruldin was caught by the British soldiers.
Local people at Moghalhat village encouraged by the story marking the heroic event constructed a stage after the name of Nuruldin beside a local playground in March, 2003. Without any care and management that historical mancha has been damaged. None has taken any measures to renovate the dilapidated stage, locals raised the complaint.
Founder Director of Lalmonirhat District Museum Ashrafuzzman Mandal Sabuj focusing back the heroic story said Nuruldin was made president of farmers' committee in greater Rangpur region in 1782 for his constructive role in organising the farmers against the British Raj.
The members of Nuruldin Memorial Library have demanded immediate measures to keep alive the historical role played by Hero Nuruldin.
Local farmer Jaldhor Chandra Sen, 48, said "Nuruldin is our power and encouragement. We, the people of Moghalhat, feel proud of the struggle he launched against the oppressors".
Another farmer Jahedul Islam said, "Nuruldin's story teaches us about how to stand against any corruption and malpractice against agricultural farmers".