PUNE , INDIA — India came together to honor B R Ambedkar on his 135th birth anniversary, with leaders across the political spectrum and citizens nationwide paying heartfelt tributes to the architect of the Indian Constitution and a champion of social justice.
President Droupadi Murmu paid floral tributes at Lok Bhavan in Gandhinagar, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered Ambedkar’s contributions to nation-building, stating that his life and work continue to inspire generations to strive for a just, inclusive, and progressive society. Leaders from across parties, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, also offered their respects, reflecting a rare moment of bipartisan unity.
In New Delhi, prominent leaders gathered at Parliament House to pay homage, where interactions between leaders from different political ideologies symbolized the unifying legacy of Ambedkar’s ideals. The occasion transcended political boundaries, reinforcing his enduring relevance in India’s democratic framework.
Ambedkar Jayanti, observed on April 14, was marked as a national holiday, with cultural events, public gatherings, and tribute ceremonies आयोजित across the country. From educational institutions to government offices, people remembered his contributions toward equality, social reform, and constitutional rights.
The Congress party organized a “Run for Ambedkar” marathon to engage youth and spread awareness about his teachings, while in Mumbai, the iconic stock exchange building was illuminated in blue — a colour closely associated with Ambedkar’s legacy. These symbolic gestures highlighted the continued resonance of his message in modern India.
Celebrations were not limited to India alone. Events were also held internationally, including at the United Nations in New York, showcasing Ambedkar’s global influence as a thinker who advocated dignity, equality, and human rights. His ideas continue to inspire movements and discussions beyond national borders, reinforcing his stature as a global icon of social justice.
Born in 1891, Ambedkar’s journey from a scholar facing social discrimination to becoming the principal architect of the Constitution remains one of India’s most powerful narratives. His relentless efforts to eradicate inequality and uplift marginalized communities have left an indelible mark on the nation’s social and political landscape.
The widespread participation in Ambedkar Jayanti celebrations once again underscored the timeless relevance of his vision, reminding the nation of its ongoing responsibility to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and fraternity that he championed throughout his life.
