Article:
The Prime Minister’s recent tribute to Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar on Mahaparinirvan Diwas has drawn attention to this revered figure and the significant day itself. This article aims to shed light on what Mahaparinirvan Diwas entails and delve into the life and achievements of Dr. Ambedkar.
Understanding Mahaparinirvan Diwas
Mahaparinirvan Diwas, which is observed on 6th December, commemorates the contributions and accomplishments of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar. The term ‘Parinirvana’ is a significant principle and goal in Buddhism, symbolizing freedom or release after death.
In the Buddhist text, Mahaparinibbana Sutta, Lord Buddha’s death at the age of 80 is considered as the original Mahaparinirvana. With Dr. Ambedkar’s prominence as a Buddhist leader, his death anniversary has come to be known as Mahaparinirvan Diwas.
Life and Achievements of Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar
Born on 14th April 1891 in Mhow, Central Province (now Madhya Pradesh), Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar was a multifaceted personality. He was a social reformer, jurist, economist, author, accomplished orator, and scholar of comparative religions.
Dr. Ambedkar made history in 1916 by becoming the first Indian to receive a doctorate degree from Columbia University. Known as the Father of the Indian Constitution, he served as India’s first law minister.
Founding Initiatives and Involvement in Social Movements
Dr. Ambedkar launched the fortnightly newspaper “Mooknayak” in 1920, which laid the groundwork for organized Dalit politics. In 1923, he founded the Bahishkrit Hitkarini Sabha, devoted to promoting education and culture among the underprivileged.
He played crucial roles in various social movements such as the Mahad Satyagraha in March 1927 and Kalaram Temple Movement of 1930, challenging regressive customs and norms.
Political Life and Contributions to the Indian Constitution
Dr. Ambedkar was active in political life. He was appointed to work on the Simon Commission by the Bombay Presidency Committee in 1925, took part in all three round-table conferences, and was elected to the Bombay Legislative Assembly as a legislator in 1936.
In 1947, he was appointed Chairman of the Drafting Committee for the new Constitution. He accepted Prime Minister Nehru’s invitation to become Minister of Law in India’s first Cabinet after independence.
Final Years and Legacy
After his resignation from the Cabinet in 1951 over differences regarding the Hindu Code Bill, Dr. Ambedkar converted to Buddhism in 1956, later passing away that same year on 6th December. Posthumously, he was conferred the Bharat Ratna in 1990.
Dr. Ambedkar is remembered today through his impressive body of work, including newspapers like Mooknayak and books like The Annihilation of Caste, The Untouchables, Buddha Or Karl Marx, and The Buddha and His Dhamma. His memorial, Chaitya Bhoomi, stands in Dadar, Mumbai.
Through his quotes, Dr. Ambedkar’s philosophy on democracy, progress, and the importance of ideas continues to resonate, reminding us of his significant contributions and the immeasurable impact he’s had on Indian society.
