Mahaparinirvan Din, observed annually on December 6, commemorates the death anniversary of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, one of India’s greatest leaders and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution. The day honours his contributions to the country and reflects on the ideals he stood for equality, justice, and social reform. 

The life and work of Dr. Ambedkar inspire millions to fight for a society free from the scourge of casteism and inequity. Mahaparinirvan Din is a day to reflect on his dream and remind ourselves of the steps to achieve that dream of an inclusive India.

Who Was Dr. B.R. Ambedkar?

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, known affectionately as Babasaheb, was born on 14 April 1891. Despite all odds, he became the greatest figure in modern Indian history. He was a scholar and a lawyer who dedicated himself to being an economist. He was also one of the social reformers who dedicated his life to the cause of oppressed people.

Ambedkar’s most notable contributions include:

• Drafting the Indian Constitution: As chairman of the Drafting Committee, he framed a constitution guaranteeing the fundamental rights of citizenship to all, irrespective of caste, religion, or gender.
• Championing Social Equality: He led a movement against caste apartheid and untouchability for the dignity and rights of Dalits.
• Promoting Education: Ambedkar emphasised that education was a great empowerment instrument, particularly for the oppressed.
• Converting to Buddhism: Like thousands of his followers, he converted to Buddhism in 1956, embracing the religion based on equality and compassion. This was a particularly landmark moment in the Dalai Lama's movement.

The Significance of Mahaparinirvan Din

"Mahaparinirvan" is borrowed from Buddhism and means attaining nirvana or ultimate liberation. This day marks not only his physical death but also his spiritual journey towards liberation. It is a time to reflect on his teachings and reaffirm his commitment to his ideals.

On this day, thousands of people from all parts of the country, mostly Dalits, gather at Chaitya Bhoomi in Mumbai, where Dr. Ambedkar was cremated, to pay their respects. Petitioners and volunteers garland his statues and monuments to pay their respects. Groups read the Preamble and sections of the Constitution to recall Ambedkar's dreams for India. Speeches, songs, and plays are presented to commemorate Ambedkar's life and teachings.

Ambedkar's vision and relevance today

A level playing field is Dr. Ambedkar's vision, which is very much in line with and relevant to the modern age, too. Though India has moved in leaps and bounds of socio-economic development, it still prevails in his time. While Ambedkar's fight against untouchability laid the foundation for affirmative action policies in India, ensuring actual social justice is a challenge. His advocacy for education continues to inspire strides toward opening education to all groups, including those mainly outside the mainstream community.

Ambedkar strongly advocated for gender equality and significantly contributed to laws governing women's rights. His economic theories, advocating equitable resource distribution, are still relevant in the fight against poverty and unemployment.

Conclusion 

Mahaparinirvan Din is more than a remembrance day- it is a celebration to remind us of what Dr. Ambedkar wanted to create and how much more work needs to be done to build a properly inclusive society. His ideals still inspire people seeking justice, equality, and human dignity. Let us pledge on this day to strive for a society aspiring for which Babasaheb worked selflessly and move forward with his vision to see that everyone reaches their best.