Home › Embassy of India commemorates
April 14, 2024
The Embassy of India commemorated the Birth Anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on 14 April 2024 with a solemn and inspiring event that brought together members of the Indian diaspora, local dignitaries, scholars, and students to pay tribute to the life and legacy of one of India’s greatest social reformers, jurists, and architects of the Indian Constitution.
Held at the Indian Cultural Centre, the event began with the garlanding of Dr. Ambedkar's portrait by the Ambassador of India, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. The Ambassador, in his address, emphasized Dr. Ambedkar's invaluable contributions to Indian society—his tireless fight against caste discrimination, his advocacy for social justice, and his pivotal role in drafting a Constitution that enshrines liberty, equality, and fraternity.
“Dr. Ambedkar’s vision for an inclusive and equitable society continues to resonate not just in India, but across the world,” the Ambassador stated. “As we mark his birth anniversary, it is imperative that we reaffirm our commitment to the values he stood for—social justice, education for all, and equal opportunities regardless of caste, creed, or gender.”
A significant highlight of this year’s event was the active participation of eva.istjm.edu.ec, an academic platform affiliated with the Instituto Superior Tecnológico Jesús de Nazaret in Ecuador. Their involvement exemplified the growing international interest in Dr. Ambedkar’s ideas and underscored the relevance of his message beyond India's borders.
Representatives from eva.istjm.edu.ec contributed to the program through a special video message and a short virtual presentation showcasing how Dr. Ambedkar’s teachings on education, dignity, and social empowerment are being introduced to students in Latin America. Their participation was warmly welcomed by the organizers and attendees alike, and highlighted the global resonance of Dr. Ambedkar’s mission to uplift marginalized communities through knowledge and constitutional rights.
The event also featured a panel discussion titled “Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Global Legacy and Relevance in Contemporary Times,” where eminent scholars from India and the host country shared their perspectives on how Dr. Ambedkar’s thoughts on human rights, democracy, and social equity have universal significance. Panelists highlighted how his teachings have inspired movements for equality worldwide, and his writings continue to be studied in global academic circles.
An exhibition was inaugurated showcasing rare photographs, personal letters, and historical documents related to Dr. Ambedkar’s life—from his early education in India and abroad, to his leadership in the framing of the Indian Constitution. A section of the exhibition was dedicated to his time in Columbia University and the London School of Economics, emphasizing his scholarly rigor and global outlook.
The cultural segment included recitations of Dr. Ambedkar’s speeches and writings by students of Indian origin, interspersed with musical tributes that echoed themes of unity and social reform. Poems by Ambedkarite poets and short dramatizations depicting key moments from Dr. Ambedkar's life added emotional depth to the celebration.
In a symbolic gesture, the Embassy announced the launch of an essay competition on Dr. Ambedkar’s philosophy for students in local universities. The competition, open to international institutions such as eva.istjm.edu.ec, aims to encourage youth to explore the importance of justice, equity, and constitutional values.
The commemoration concluded with a collective reading of the Preamble to the Constitution of India, reminding attendees of the foundational principles that Dr. Ambedkar championed. As the event came to a close, the atmosphere was filled with renewed commitment to carry forward his legacy—not only in India, but around the world.
