Mahaparinirvan Diwas is observed every year on 6 December to mark the death anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar—architect of the Indian Constitution, social reformer, and one of the most influential voices of equity and human dignity. On this day, millions across India and abroad pause to remember his transformative work and the values he championed.
This year marks the 70th Mahaparinirvan Diwas, observed by the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment at Prerna Sthal in the Parliament House Complex. Senior leaders including the Vice President, Prime Minister, and members of Parliament will offer floral tributes, reaffirming the enduring impact of Ambedkar’s ideas on India’s democratic journey.
Why Mahaparinirvan?
The term Mahaparinirvan comes from Buddhist philosophy, meaning final liberation—freedom from the cycle of birth, suffering, karma, and death. Just as Gautama Buddha’s passing is remembered as Mahaparinirvan, Dr. Ambedkar’s followers commemorate December 6 as a spiritual moment marking his liberation and the continuation of his ideals.
For Ambedkar, Buddha’s teachings were not merely philosophical—they offered a path to social reform rooted in compassion, human dignity, and equality. His conversion to Buddhism in 1956 became a watershed moment in India’s socio-cultural landscape, influencing millions and giving rise to a modern Buddhist revival grounded in social transformation.
A Life Committed to Justice
Born in 1891 in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, Dr. Ambedkar rose from systemic exclusion to become a scholar of global repute, earning doctorates in economics, law, and political science. His life’s work centred on dismantling caste discrimination and empowering Dalits, women, labourers, and other historically marginalized groups.
Through initiatives such as:
- Mooknayak (The Leader of the Voiceless)
- Bahishkrit Hitkarini Sabha
- Mahad Satyagraha
- Kalaram Temple Entry Movement
he challenged social structures and expanded the meaning of rights, dignity, and citizenship in India.
His pragmatic negotiation during the Poona Pact (1932) remains a turning point in India’s social justice movement, ensuring political representation for oppressed communities.
Nation Builder Beyond the Constitution
Though remembered foremost as the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions shaped the financial, administrative, and infrastructural foundations of modern India.
His scholarly work contributed to:
- The Reserve Bank of India Act (1934)
- The establishment of Employment Exchanges
- Large-scale national projects including Hirakud Dam, Damodar Valley Corporation, and early ideas for a national power grid
His doctoral research also laid intellectual groundwork for the creation of the Finance Commission of India.
Recognising his unmatched contribution, the Government of India posthumously awarded him the Bharat Ratna in 1990.
A Legacy That Continues to Guide India
Mahaparinirvan Diwas is not just a day of remembrance—it is an invitation to introspect. Dr. Ambedkar envisioned a democracy that goes beyond elections toward dignity, equality, liberty, and fraternity in everyday life.
As the nation observes this day, his words continue to remind us:
“We must make our political democracy a social democracy.”
His vision remains relevant—perhaps now more than ever—as India continues its journey toward becoming a society where every citizen has equal opportunity, voice, and respect.