Ranchi, Jan. 8: Freedom fighter Sheikh Bhikhari’s martyrdom was observed today. Bhikhari was sentenced to death for fighting against the Raj in 1858.

Bhikhari, a native of Khudia village in Ormanjhi, headed the espionage activities of the Chhotanagpur king He also formed armed companies in which he employed his informants.

Bhikhari had fought the British a number of times. He developed a mode of guerrilla warfare to fight them.

Bhikhari built roads and pathways through villages for movement of his forces. He was joined in his efforts by Tikait Umraon who also hailed from Ormanjhi. The two were executed at Chutupalu Ghati.

Bhikhari’s grand-daughter, Shamima Khatoon Ansari, who had written a book on his life, was felicitated today at a JMM meeting.