Mumbai, April 3: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday called upon citizens to celebrate the 135th birth anniversary of B. R. Ambedkar as a festival of his thoughts and ideals rather than merely a ceremonial event. He said Dr. Ambedkar’s vision and the Constitution he authored have provided India with a progressive direction and continue to guide the nation’s development.
The Chief Minister was speaking at a preparatory review meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai ahead of the 135th birth anniversary celebrations of Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar on April 14, 2026.
Fadnavis stated that commemorating great leaders is not a formality but an opportunity to carry forward their ideas to future generations. He described the Indian Constitution as one of the finest in the world and said its inclusive principles have enabled India to move steadily towards becoming a developed nation. He emphasized the need for the younger generation to understand whose contributions have secured their rights, opportunities, and social progress.
Every year, lakhs of followers from across the country visit Chaitya Bhoomi in Mumbai to pay tribute to Dr. Ambedkar on his birth anniversary. In view of the summer season and the expected massive turnout on April 14, the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure comprehensive arrangements for devotees.
He instructed authorities to erect adequate shelters to protect visitors from the heat and to ensure sufficient availability of drinking water. Traffic police have been directed to implement proper planning to maintain smooth vehicular movement in Dadar and adjoining areas. Clear signages will be installed at various locations to guide citizens.
The Chief Minister also directed the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) administration to operate adequate bus services between Dadar railway station and Chaitya Bhoomi to facilitate smooth travel for visitors. He noted that Dr. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary is celebrated not only across India but globally, and said it is the collective responsibility of the administration to ensure the event is conducted in a grand and dignified manner.
Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat informed the meeting that a statewide initiative has been launched to take the Indian Constitution to every household through district collector offices, with the objective of spreading constitutional awareness among citizens. He said the government is also expanding hostel facilities for students, inspired by Dr. Ambedkar’s message of “Educate, Organize and Agitate.”
As part of the special initiatives this year, a grand drone show based on Dr. Ambedkar’s life will be presented at Chaitya Bhoomi on the evening of April 13.
Discussions were also held regarding police ceremonial salutes, a helicopter flower shower at Chaitya Bhoomi, a large accommodation tent at Shivaji Maharaj Ground, emergency response systems, medical facilities, exhibition pavilions, decoration of the Chaitya Bhoomi stupa and surrounding area, a special edition of Lokrajya magazine, and government publicity measures.
Senior ministers, former public representatives, Mumbai Police Commissioner, municipal officials, senior bureaucrats, and representatives of various committees associated with Dr. Ambedkar’s memorial were present at the meeting. A detailed presentation on the civic body’s planning was made, and a commemorative poster of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar was unveiled on the occasion.
