Thousands Pay Last Respects as Jharkhand Mourns the Loss of Legendary Leader Shibu Soren

A wave of mourning swept across Jharkhand on Monday evening, as thousands gathered at Morabadi, Ranchi, to pay their final respects to Shibu Soren, the legendary leader and patriarch of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). Soren, affectionately known as “Guruji,” passed away in New Delhi earlier that day at the age of 81, following a prolonged illness and treatment at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.

An Emotional Homecoming

Soren’s mortal remains were flown from Delhi and brought to his residence in Ranchi, where family members, including his son and current Chief Minister Hemant Soren, performed the traditional rites. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as political leaders, party members, and ordinary citizens lined up for a final glimpse of the man many credit with Jharkhand’s very existence.

The residence, draped in party flags, the national tricolour, and adorned with flowers, became a pilgrimage site overnight. Hemant Soren and his brothers personally shouldered their father’s casket, symbolizing the transfer of a legacy that shaped a region’s history.

A Sea of Leaders and Supporters

The scale of the public response reflected Soren’s towering stature. Leaders across the political spectrum arrived to pay tribute, including former Chief Ministers Babulal Marandi, Raghubar Das, Madhu Koda, and representatives from Congress, the BJP, and other regional parties. Hundreds of JMM workers and grassroots supporters, many in traditional attire, braved the July monsoons to offer prayers and flowers.

Prominent opposition figures, senior government officials, and members of all major political parties stood side by side, setting aside rivalries to honor Soren’s contributions.

A Historic Site of Farewells

Shibu Soren’s Morabadi residence has been the scene of historic moments in Jharkhand’s struggle for statehood. On Monday, it bore witness to a collective outpouring of grief and gratitude. Lines of mourners, some stretching hundreds of meters, included villagers from remote corners of the state, tribal elders, students, and union workers—each with their own stories of how Soren’s fight for justice touched their lives.

The site will remain open to the public for homage until the funeral procession departs for Nemra, Soren’s ancestral village, where he will be laid to rest with full state honors on Tuesday morning.

Grief and Unity Across India

Condolences poured in from President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and numerous state and national leaders, all recalling Soren’s unwavering commitment to the tribal cause and his historic role in the creation of Jharkhand.

Rahul Gandhi tweeted: “Shibu Soren’s legacy will continue to inspire all those fighting for justice and equality.”

A Lasting Legacy

Three-time Chief Minister, eight-time Member of Parliament, and a relentless advocate for tribal rights, Shibu Soren’s life was a testament to resilience. His leadership during decades of struggle culminated in the formation of Jharkhand in 2000. To many, he will remain the face and spirit of their state’s identity and aspirations.

As the final rites approach, the sorrow felt in Jharkhand is matched only by a determination to carry forward his vision of inclusion, dignity, and justice.

ENDS

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