An event was  organized by the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) under the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment at Prerna Sthal, Parliament House Complex on December 6.

About Mahaparinirvan Diwas

• It commemorates the death anniversary of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and a champion of social justice.
• The day reflects on Ambedkar’s contributions to equality, justice, and an inclusive society, drawing inspiration from his teachings.

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About ‘Mahaparinirvan’

• The term originates from Buddhist texts, signifying nirvana after death and liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth.
• Dr. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism in 1956, viewing it as a path to liberation from caste-based oppression.
• He was deeply influenced by Buddha’s teachings, and is regarded as a spiritual and social reformer.
  • His death anniversary is celebrated as Mahaparinirvan Diwas.

Contribution of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

• Focus on Marginalized Communities: Upliftment of Dalits, women, and laborers facing systemic discrimination.
• Key Reforms:
  • Established the Bahishkrit Hitkarini Sabha (1923) to promote education and economic welfare for marginalized groups.
  • Launched Mooknayaka newspaper to amplify voices of the oppressed.
• Major Movements:
  • Mahad March (1927): Advocated Dalit rights to access public water.
  • Kalaram Temple Entry Movement (1930): Challenged caste-based exclusion.
  • Played a pivotal role in the Poona Pact (1932), replacing separate electorates with reserved seats for Dalits.
• Economic and Infrastructure Vision:
  • Influenced the establishment of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Finance Commission of India.
  • Championed projects like the Damodar Valley Project, Hirakud Dam Project, and Sone River Project.
  • Advocated for the National Power Grid System and founded Employment Exchanges.
• Role in Constitution Framing:
  • As Chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee, drafted provisions for social and economic justice.
  • Ensured protections for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes, fostering an inclusive democracy.

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• Literary Contribution:
  • His writings include “The Untouchables,” “Who Were the Shudras?” and “The Annihilation of Caste.”
• Awards and Recognition:
  • Posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1990 for his contributions to nation-building.