A vast sea of white-clad devotees converged upon Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur on Saturday to mark the 69th Mahaparinirvan Diwas of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar. Followers from across Maharashtra and neighbouring states thronged the sacred monument to pay their respects to the architect of the Indian Constitution.
Organised Homage and Spiritual Tributes
The Nagpur Municipal Corporation and local police implemented extensive arrangements to manage the large crowds. They set up barricades at key points and created dedicated routes to ensure smooth movement for all visitors.
At a formal ceremony, floral tributes were offered to the statues of Dr Ambedkar and Gautam Buddha. The event was organised by the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Smarak Samiti, Bhikkhu Sangh, and Akhil Bharatiya Dhammasena. The proceedings at Deekshabhoomi were led by Dhammasena Nayak and Smarak Samiti president Bhante Arya Nagarjun Surei Sasai, who commenced with Buddha Vandana. This was followed by a darshan of Babasaheb's sacred relics.
Members of the Bhikkhu Sangh played a crucial role in guiding devotees, educating them about Dr Ambedkar's life and monumental work. Prominent attendees from the Smarak Samiti included Sudhir Fulzele, NR Sute, Anand Fulzele, Vilas Gajghate, and principal Deepa Panhekar.
Blood Donation Drive Spreads Ambedkar's Message
In a unique tribute aligning with Dr Ambedkar's humanitarian vision, the organisation 'Blood For Babasaheb' conducted its annual blood donation drive. The initiative aimed to spread his message of social service and community welfare.
The drive was not confined to Nagpur but extended its reach to six other countries. Within the city, twelve donation centres were established. Significant participation was witnessed at locations like the Rajshri Shahu Maharaj Library in Chandramani Nagar, where 60 citizens donated blood, and at Trisharan Chowk, which saw 40 donors. The drive was spearheaded by Pritam Meshram and Vinod Ramteke.
Educational Vision Remembered at University
Meanwhile, at Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Dr Ambedkar's intellectual legacy was commemorated. Dr Manali Kshirsagar, the Vice-Chancellor, emphasised that his educational philosophy remains profoundly relevant today.
She addressed a tribute event organised by the university's Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Thoughts Department. Floral tributes were also offered to portraits of Dr Ambedkar and Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj. "Ambedkar's philosophy continues to guide society towards empowerment. The best tribute would be to translate his thoughts into action," Dr Kshirsagar stated, highlighting the call for practical implementation of his ideals.
The 69th Mahaparinirvan Diwas thus stood as a powerful testament to Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar's enduring influence, blending spiritual remembrance with active social service and academic reflection.
