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The annual observance of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar's birth anniversary is more than a mere ritual; it is a powerful affirmation of the enduring relevance of his ideals and the continuing struggle for social justice in India. The scenes witnessed at Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur and Chaityabhoomi in Mumbai on April 14, 2025, painted a vivid picture of the deep reverence and unwavering commitment of Ambedkar's followers to his vision of an egalitarian society. The sheer number of people who traveled from across the country to pay homage at these two significant sites speaks volumes about Ambedkar's profound impact on the lives of marginalized communities and his lasting legacy as the principal architect of the Indian Constitution. These gatherings serve not only as a remembrance of the past but also as a rallying point for the ongoing fight against caste discrimination and social inequality. The act of offering floral tributes at the stupa in Deekshabhoomi and at Ambedkar's cremation site in Chaityabhoomi is a symbolic gesture of solidarity and a reaffirmation of the collective resolve to uphold the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity that Ambedkar so passionately advocated. The chants of "Jai Bhim" that reverberated through the air are a powerful expression of identity and a call for unity among those who share Ambedkar's vision of a more just and equitable society.
The personal testimonies of individuals like Rajesh Kumar Gautam, Ayodhya Prasad Sharma, Parbudayal, and Ankit Ambedkar provide valuable insights into the lived experiences of those who have been directly impacted by Ambedkar's teachings and activism. Rajesh Kumar Gautam's poignant observation that "even the air we breathe freely today is because of his struggles" encapsulates the profound debt that the nation owes to Ambedkar for his relentless fight against social oppression. His lament that Ambedkar's dream remains unfulfilled, particularly in light of the current government's priorities, raises critical questions about the allocation of resources and the commitment to social justice in contemporary India. The contrast between the massive expenditure on projects like the Ram Mandir and the perceived neglect of essential sectors like education highlights the ongoing debate about the priorities of the government and the extent to which they align with Ambedkar's vision of a just and equitable society. Ayodhya Prasad Sharma's recognition of Ambedkar as a "guiding light" who taught the importance of education underscores the transformative power of knowledge and the role it plays in empowering marginalized communities to overcome systemic barriers. His statement that "his teachings are the reason many of us are here today" speaks to the enduring relevance of Ambedkar's ideas and their ability to inspire and motivate individuals to strive for a better future.
Parbudayal's connection between Ambedkar and Kanshi Ram, the founder of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), provides a crucial historical context for understanding the evolution of the Dalit movement in India. His assertion that "Babasaheb was instrumental in reducing caste discrimination, but Kanshi Ram carried that legacy forward" acknowledges the important role that Kanshi Ram played in mobilizing Dalit communities and translating Ambedkar's ideals into concrete political action. The BSP's efforts to promote equality and social justice, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh, have had a significant impact on the lives of Dalits and other marginalized groups. Ankit Ambedkar's reverence for Babasaheb, whom he considers akin to a deity, reflects the deep emotional connection that many Dalits feel towards Ambedkar. His statement that "he taught us to stand tall and to value education" captures the essence of Ambedkar's message of self-respect and empowerment. The presence of photos of social reformers like Savitribai Phule and Babasaheb Ambedkar in Ankit's home serves as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by these individuals in the pursuit of social justice and as an inspiration to continue their struggle. The fact that Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Deekshabhoomi ahead of Ambedkar Jayanti and paid respects at the stupa underscores the political significance of Ambedkar's legacy and the recognition of his importance across the political spectrum. Modi's statement that building a "developed and inclusive Bharat" would be the true tribute to Ambedkar's legacy suggests a commitment to upholding Ambedkar's ideals, but the extent to which this commitment is translated into concrete policies and actions remains to be seen.
The scale of the gatherings at Deekshabhoomi and Chaityabhoomi necessitates careful planning and management by the local authorities. The Maharashtra government and Mumbai civic authorities deserve commendation for making special arrangements to handle the influx of visitors, including the provision of medical camps, water facilities, and traffic management. The deployment of over 1,000 personnel by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Mumbai Police is a testament to the seriousness with which they take the responsibility of ensuring the safety and well-being of the attendees. The erection of temporary facilities around the site is a practical measure to accommodate the large crowds and provide essential services. The fact that followers waited patiently for hours in long queues to pay their respects is a testament to their unwavering devotion and their willingness to endure hardship in order to honor Ambedkar's memory. The logistical challenges associated with managing such large gatherings highlight the need for continued investment in infrastructure and resources to ensure that these events can be conducted safely and efficiently. The observance of Ambedkar Jayanti is not merely a symbolic event; it is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for social justice in India. The challenges that Ambedkar fought against, such as caste discrimination, social inequality, and economic exploitation, continue to persist in various forms. The testimonies of individuals like Rajesh Kumar Gautam and Ayodhya Prasad Sharma underscore the fact that Ambedkar's dream of an egalitarian society remains unfulfilled.
The voices of the people, the ordinary citizens who thronged Deekshabhoomi and Chaityabhoomi, offer the most compelling evidence of Ambedkar's enduring impact. Their stories, their struggles, and their hopes for the future are inextricably linked to Ambedkar's legacy. These are not abstract concepts or historical figures; they are real people whose lives have been profoundly shaped by Ambedkar's teachings and activism. Their presence at these gatherings is a testament to their unwavering commitment to his ideals and their determination to continue the fight for social justice. The echoes of “Jai Bhim” reverberating through the air are a powerful reminder of the collective strength and resilience of those who share Ambedkar's vision of a more just and equitable society. The observance of Ambedkar Jayanti is an opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made in the fight against social inequality and to acknowledge the challenges that remain. It is a time to reaffirm our commitment to the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity that Ambedkar so passionately advocated and to work towards creating a society where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. The lessons of Ambedkar's life and work are as relevant today as they were when he was alive. His legacy serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who are striving to create a better world.
Source: Thousands gather at Deekshabhoomi, Chaityabhoomi to mark Ambedkar’s birth anniversary