Mahaparinirvan Diwas: Tribute to Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar on His 68th Death Anniversary
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On December 6, Maharashtra will observe Mahaparinirvan Diwas, honouring Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar on the 68th anniversary of his death. The day marks a significant occasion for the people, as they pay tribute to the architect of the Indian Constitution and a leading social reformer. To commemorate the event, the Maharashtra government has declared a local holiday for state government and semi-government offices, allowing employees to join the public in paying respects to Dr Ambedkar.
In line with the commemoration, liquor shops across will remain closed, as the city collector has declared it a dry day. Public and private banks, including the State Bank of India (SBI), will continue to operate as usual. The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE) will also function normally, ensuring that financial operations proceed without disruption.
Every year, thousands of devotees from across Maharashtra flock to Mumbai to pay homage at Chaityabhoomi, the cremation site of Dr Ambedkar, located at Dadar's Shivaji Park. To manage the massive crowds expected this year, the Central Railway (CR) has set up holding areas at key stations in Mumbai. This decision comes after a stampede at Bandra Terminus earlier this year when a crowd rushed to board a train to Gorakhpur.
To assist in the smooth flow of devotees, CR will operate 12 additional suburban trains—six on the main line and six on the harbour line—on the nights of December 5 and 6. Moreover, special entry and exit points will be created at Dadar to ensure efficient crowd management.
In anticipation of the large gatherings, the Mumbai Traffic Police have issued an advisory to commuters. The police have announced traffic arrangements in place from 6:00 am on December 5 to 12:00 am on December 7, urging citizens to plan their journeys accordingly to avoid congestion and inconvenience. The arrangements are designed to manage the heavy flow of devotees visiting Chaityabhoomi and ensure public safety during this busy period.
Mahaparinirvan Diwas is not only a day for paying tribute to Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar but also an occasion for reflection on his tireless efforts toward social justice, equality, and the upliftment of marginalized communities. The day’s observance is a reminder of his enduring legacy, and his teachings continue to inspire millions across the nation in their fight for social and economic equality.
As people gather at Chaityabhoomi and other locations to commemorate Dr Ambedkar, the security measures and public service arrangements aim to ensure a safe and smooth experience for everyone participating in the tributes.
