Chunaram Mahato, a resident of Kuda village in the Manbazar police station area of Purulia district, was one of the martyrs of the freedom movement. He was born on 3 February 1924, in Kuda village to a humble Mahato family. From a tender age, Chunaram harboured dreams of India's independence and was determined to contribute to the cause. His unwavering dedication to his country's freedom was evident even at a young age. In 1932, he was arrested by the British police for aiding some revolutionaries in Manbazar. Despite being detained for a month, he was ultimately released due to a lack of evidence. However, this experience only fuelled the flames of patriotism burning within him.
The Quit India movement of 1942, which swept across the entire nation, including Manbazar in Purulia, became a turning point. The freedom fighters in the Manbazar region, under the leadership of Satyakingkar Mahato, decided to execute a daring plan known as "THANA TARA," involving the blockade of police stations. This covert operation was carried out at the residence of Bhajahari Mahato, the prominent freedom fighter of Manbhum.On 29 September 1942, a group of 500 brave freedom fighters, led by Satyakingkar Mahato, launched an attack on the Bandoyan and Bara Bazar Police Stations, setting ablaze crucial police documents. Subsequently, their sights were set on the Manbazar police station.
Chunaram Mahato, a valiant son of the soil participated in the raid to Manbazar police station and attained martyrdom in the police firing 30 September 1942.To commemorate his sacrifice, a memorial pillar stands at the intersection of Manbazar Thana, while a statue in his honour graces the intersection of Purulia city.
Statue located at Kenda Thana more of Purulia city.
Source: Sujatak Kumar, Contributor for CCRT