India Marks 135th Ambedkar Jayanti Nationwide

India marked the 135th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on April 14, 2026, with nationwide observances honoring the architect of the Indian Constitution and champion of social equality. The day, known as Ambedkar Jayanti, fell on a Tuesday and served as a gazetted public holiday across the country, drawing tributes from communities in states including Maharashtra, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Delhi.

Born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, now Dr. Ambedkar Nagar in Madhya Pradesh, Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar grew up in the Mahar community, facing severe caste-based discrimination. Despite these barriers, he pursued higher education, earning degrees from the University of Mumbai, Columbia University, and the London School of Economics, along with a doctorate in economics and qualification at the Bar from Gray's Inn in London. Returning to India, Ambedkar became a leading voice against untouchability and social inequality, founding newspapers, leading movements like the 1927 Mahad Satyagraha for Dalit access to public water, and advocating for labor rights, including the introduction of the eight-hour workday.

In 1947, following independence, Ambedkar served as India's first Law Minister...