This article casts light on the significant figure of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar and his contributions to Indian society. It also explores Mahaparinirvan Diwas, which commemorates the death anniversary of Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar.
The Significance of Mahaparinirvan Diwas
Mahaparinirvan Diwas is observed annually on December 6th to pay tribute to the incalculable contributions of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, a vital force in shaping modern India. This day is a tribute to his life and accomplishments. The term ‘Mahaparinirvan’ derives from Sanskrit, indicating liberation or ultimate freedom after death, a profound principle and goal within Buddhism. The original Mahaparinirvan is the passing of Lord Buddha at 80, as chronicled in the Buddhist text Mahaparinibbana Sutta. As a Buddhist leader, Dr. Ambedkar’s death anniversary is referred to as Mahaparinirvan Diwas.
Who was Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar?
Born in Mhow, Central Province (now Madhya Pradesh) in 1891, Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar was a luminary with an extensive profile – a social reformer, jurist, economist, polyglot orator, scholar, and comparative religion philosopher. His birth marked the entrance of a visionary who would shape the fabric of Indian society in profound ways.
As the Father of the Indian Constitution and India’s first Law Minister, Dr. Ambedkar was the guiding beacon behind the drafting of the new Constitution. His tireless advocacy for the rights of Dalits and other socially marginalized classes remains a shining example of his statesmanship.
Contributions to Society and Nation
Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions include leading the Mahad Satyagraha in 1927 against discriminatory practices and championing equal access to resources for all, irrespective of caste and class. He partook in all three Round Table Conferences and signed the significant Poona Pact with Mahatma Gandhi in 1932, marking steps towards caste equality in political representation.
He laid the foundation of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) with his inputs to the Hilton Young Commission and represented as a Labour member on the Viceroy’s Executive Council in 1942. His political career further advanced in 1947 when he accepted then-PM Nehru’s invitation to serve as the Minister of Law in independent India’s first Cabinet.
Shift to Buddhism and Legacy
Dr. Ambedkar resigned from the cabinet in 1951 over disagreements on the Hindu Code Bill. He converted to Buddhism in 1956, exemplifying his commitment to social justice and equanimity as reflected in Buddhist principles. His contributions were posthumously acknowledged with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour, in 1990.
Dr. Ambedkar penned numerous thought-provoking works, including ‘Annihilation of Caste’, ‘Buddha or Karl Marx’, and ‘The Untouchables: Who are They and Why They Have Become Untouchables’. These works continue to inspire debates on social justice and equality.
Relevance of Ambedkar’s Vision in Contemporary Times
In present times, Dr. Ambedkar’s vision holds particular relevance as caste-based disparities in India persist. Dalits, despite acquiring political identity through reservation and formation of political parties, trail behind in social (health and education) and economic dimensions. The rise of communal polarization accentuates the need for Ambedkar’s vision of constitutional morality to supersede religious morality.
Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar’s life and legacy continue to resonate powerfully in Indian society, particularly in the fight against social and economic disparities. Each year on Mahaparinirvan Diwas, his memory serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of his mission — a society founded on justice and equality.
