Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, the revered architect of the Indian Constitution, died on 6 December 1956 and his death anniversary is observed annually under the Buddhist tradition of Parinirwan Diwas – or freedom after death.
The 68th Parinirwan Diwas was marked with floral tributes and prayers by the High Commission of India, aptly at Ambedkar Hall in India House, in London this week in collaboration with the Federation of Ambedkarite and Buddhist Organisations (FABO) UK. Acting High Commissioner of India to the UK Sujit Ghosh led the ceremony and reflected upon the many contributions of Dr B.R. Ambedkar.
Ghosh said: “Dr Ambedkar’s contributions extend far beyond the drafting of the Indian Constitution. His emphasis on education as a tool for empowerment and change has proved to be transformative; he recognised that education could serve as a powerful equaliser, breaking down barriers of caste and fostering a sense of self-worth among the marginalised.
“His legacy also resonates strongly in the economic sphere. He believed in the necessity of equitable distribution of resources and opportunities, advocating for policies that would uplift the under-privileged and marginalised sections of society.”
Representatives from FABO UK, set up to propagate Babasaheb Bhim Rao Ambedkar’s legacy and Buddhist ideals, organised prayers and ‘Bhim Stuti’ presentations for the solemn occasion.
Pankaj Shamkunwar, general secretary of FABO UK, shared: “Babasaheb was an academic, a researcher, a jurist… he was a true polymath. He spent his life fighting for justice, equity, equality and the rights of the marginalised.
“We stand on the shoulder of his legacy, his tireless efforts in framing the Constitution of India, the very bedrock of democracy rooted in the profound belief that every citizen irrespective of caste, creed, gender deserves equal rights and opportunities.”
Jagdish Gaware, Vice-President of FABO, focussed his address on Babasaheb’s commitment to ensuring “each and every individual benefits from his contributions” and FABO Joint Secretary C. Gautam concluded that all Indians are indebted to the great leader for his selfless service to the nation.
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A video encapsulating the many highlights of Dr Ambedkar’s life and career, from his days as a young student at the London School of Economics (LSE) and the freedom struggle to his passionate advocacy of equal rights for all strata of society, was curated by the Indian High Commission in London to mark the death anniversary.
*Info: FABO UK