The 134th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar, the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, was observed with reverence and enthusiasm across Lucknow on Sunday. From early morning, political leaders, party workers, students and citizens gathered at the iconic Ambedkar statue in Hazratganj to pay floral tributes to the social reformer and Dalit icon.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was among the first dignitaries to arrive at the site. Accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, Lucknow Mayor Sushma Kharkwal, Rajya Sabha MP Brijlal and senior BJP leader Neeraj Singh, the Chief Minister offered flowers and bowed in respect to Dr Ambedkar’s legacy.
Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav reached soon after, wearing his trademark red cap along with a symbolic blue gamchha—a gesture that resonated deeply with Ambedkarite ideology. Laying flowers at the statue, Yadav addressed the media, saying, “Dr Ambedkar gave us a Constitution that guarantees our rights, our reservation, and a path of progress for the PDA (Pichhda, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) communities. He overcame unimaginable discrimination and still gave India the most visionary and inclusive Constitution the world has seen.” A sea of SP workers greeted him with chants of “Jai Bhim” and “Jai Akhilesh,” waving posters of Dr Ambedkar and cheering as their leader made a symbolic appeal through his attire and words.
In his media interaction, Akhilesh Yadav underscored the Constitution’s continuing relevance in protecting the marginalised. “It is the only document that guarantees dignity, equality, and justice to the underprivileged. Without it, many communities would still be voiceless,” he asserted.
Reflecting on Dr Ambedkar’s personal struggles, Yadav said, “Baba Saheb faced untouchability and rejection at every stage of his early life, yet he rose to become a global symbol of intellect and justice. His commitment to liberty, equality, and fraternity gave shape to our democratic republic.” He also expressed concern over ongoing vandalism of Ambedkar statues across Uttar Pradesh.
“These are not random incidents. They reveal an ideological discomfort with Dr Ambedkar’s vision—a political intent to erase what he stood for,” Yadav alleged. Earlier, CM Yogi took to social media to extend his greetings, stating that Dr Ambedkar “dedicated his life to ending social injustice and empowering the deprived.”
BSP supremo Mayawati also released a statement, calling Ambedkar Jayanti an occasion to renew the pledge toward social equality and justice. BJP MP Brijlal emphasised the government’s efforts for Dalit welfare, adding, “The BJP has launched numerous initiatives aimed at uplifting the Dalit community.”
Beyond political tributes, the day was marked by cultural and educational events across the city. Ambedkar Udyan in Gomti Nagar hosted a bustling “Bheem Fair,” featuring exhibitions, public talks, and literature inspired by Ambedkar’s life and thoughts.
At Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU), students participated in a spirited “Bhim Walk” that traced the journey of Dr Ambedkar’s life and ideals. In Hazratganj, the heart of the city turned into a visual tribute with a vibrant bike rally. Participants, wrapped in blue scarves and carrying flags bearing Ambedkar’s image, rode through the streets, symbolising unity, resistance and pride.
