Celebrate Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Birth Anniversary as a Festival of His Ideas: CM Devendra Fadnavis

Mumbai, April 2026: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has called for celebrating the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar as a “festival of ideas,” emphasising the need to spread his thoughts and contributions to every section of society.

Chairing a review meeting at Sahyadri Guest House regarding preparations for the 135th birth anniversary of Dr. Ambedkar, to be observed on April 14, 2026, the Chief Minister said that Ambedkar’s vision and the Constitution he gave to the nation have guided India’s progress. He stressed that the purpose of commemorating great leaders should go beyond formality and focus on inspiring future generations through their ideals and work.

Fadnavis noted that the state government makes consistent efforts each year to enhance the scale and quality of the celebrations, and this year too, the programme will be organised in a grand manner through coordination among various departments. He said the celebration should become a meaningful occasion to promote awareness of Ambedkar’s ideology and legacy.

The meeting was attended by Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat, senior officials, and representatives from various departments and organisations, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, police, and coordination committees associated with Chaityabhoomi.

Highlighting the importance of public participation, the Chief Minister said that lakhs of people from across the country visit Chaityabhoomi in Mumbai to pay tribute on Ambedkar Jayanti. Considering the summer heat, he directed officials to ensure comprehensive arrangements for visitors, including shaded shelters, adequate drinking water, and essential facilities.

He also instructed traffic authorities to implement proper planning to maintain smooth movement in and around Dadar, and called for clear signage to guide visitors. The BEST administration has been asked to operate sufficient bus services between Dadar railway station and Chaityabhoomi to facilitate easy travel.

Fadnavis remarked that Ambedkar Jayanti is celebrated not only across India but also globally, and therefore it is the responsibility of the state to organise the event with excellence.

Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat said that initiatives are underway to take the Indian Constitution to every household through district administrations, with the aim of increasing public awareness. He added that, inspired by Ambedkar’s message—“Educate, Organise, and Agitate”—the government is also working on building hostels for students.

As part of special initiatives this year, a grand drone show depicting Dr. Ambedkar’s life will be presented at Chaityabhoomi on April 13. Other arrangements discussed included police honours, flower showers by helicopter, large accommodation tents, emergency services, healthcare facilities, exhibition pavilions, and decoration of the memorial premises.

The meeting also included a detailed presentation by the municipal administration on event planning, and a poster of Dr. Ambedkar was unveiled on the occasion.