With reference to the history of India, “Ulgulan” or the Great Tumult is the description of which of the following events?

The correct option is Birsa Munda’s Revolt of 1899-1900.

Understanding "Ulgulan":
The term "Ulgulan" translates to "the Great Tumult" or "the Great Rebellion" in the Mundari language. It refers specifically to the tribal uprising led by Birsa Munda against the British colonial authorities and exploitation by outsiders in the late 19th century (specifically 1899-1900) in the region south of Ranchi (in modern-day Jharkhand).

Key Drivers of the Movement:
1. Disruption of Traditional Systems: The British introduced land systems that destroyed the traditional Khuntkatti system (joint landholding) of the Munda tribe, converting their lands into private property leased to outsiders.
2. Exploitation by Dikus: The tribal population faced severe exploitation by dikus (outsiders, including non-tribal landlords, merchants, and moneylenders) who trapped them in debt-bondage.
3. Cultural and Political Aim: Birsa Munda mobilized the community to assert their rights, urging them to stop paying rent to landlords and taxes to the British. He envisioned the establishment of a Munda Raj (Munda rule) and declared himself a messenger of God sent to save his people.

Why Other Options are Incorrect:
- The Revolt of 1857: Also known as the Sepoy Mutiny or the First War of Indian Independence, this was a widespread rebellion by Indian sepoys and rulers against the British East India Company across northern and central India.
- The Mappila Rebellion of 1921: An uprising of Muslim peasants (Mappilas) in the Malabar region of Kerala against British authorities and local Hindu landlords.
- The Indigo Revolt of 1859-60: A peasant movement in Bengal where farmers refused to sow indigo under forced contracts dictated by British planters.