THE ASIAN INDEPENDENT UK
Dear all,
Namo Buddhaya! Jai Bhim!
I am happy to share glimpses and reflections from the 135th Birth Anniversary celebration of Bodhisattva Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, organized by the Lokamalasaram Buddhist Community and the Anuttara Buddhist Community on 14 April 2026 at North Paravur, Ernakulam district, Kerala.
The programme began with a homage at the statue of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar at Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Park, where threefold offerings were made in reverence. This was followed by a talk on the significance of Ambedkar Jayanthi, highlighting the transformative power of education and awareness, and reflecting on how Dr. Ambedkar embodied the qualities of a Bodhisattva.
His life was presented as an inspiring journey—from an ordinary boy to an educated individual, from a graduate to a scholar of global repute, from a scholar to “Babasaheb” through his relentless social struggle, and from Babasaheb to the chief architect of modern India through constitutional democracy. This journey ultimately culminated in his embrace of Buddhism and the initiation of a modern Dhamma revolution, expressing the spirit of the Bodhisattva in every dimension of his life and work. The morning programme concluded with a Dhammayatra rally that spread awareness among the public.
The evening programme commenced with the inauguration by the Municipal Chairperson of North Paravur, Mr. Ramesh D. Kurup, who was instrumental in naming the park after Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. I had the opportunity to deliver the keynote address. Mr. Soe San from the International Network of Engaged Buddhists was invited as the special guest speaker.
The keynote address, titled “Why I am a Buddhist,” reflected on how, while many religious traditions place divinity beyond human reach, Buddhism offers the profound possibility of cultivating one’s highest human potential. A Muslim can not become allah. A christian can not become Jesus. A Hindu can not become Krishna/Shiva/Vishnu. Whereas a Buddhist can become a Bodhisatva or even a Buddha by diligently practice the Dhamma. Through ethical living, wisdom, and compassion, individuals can progress toward Buddhahood or the Bodhisattva ideal. Dr. Ambedkar stands as a powerful example of this transformative path, representing the Bodhisattva ideal in the modern world. Buddhism breaks the barricades of Religio-Socio-Political-Cultural identities. It destroys casteism and gender discrimination. It endeavours for the eradication of suffering of all beings.
The programme also celebrated the achievements of Buddhist youth in various fields such as art, music, dance, higher education, self-defence, and Dhammic work. Awards were presented to encourage them and inspire others.
I express my heartfelt gratitude to the organisers, especially those who stood as pillars of support for this event. My sincere thanks to Dhammamitra Sunil Rajagraha, Dhammamitra Nagaratna, Mr. Ajayan Babu, Mr. Binu Ramachandran, Mr. Sasidharan, Mr. Nishu, Mr. Sunil Kumar, Mr. Jayalal, and all others who contributed to the success of this celebration. Special thanks to Mr. Soe San from Myanmar for his valuable presence and insights.
This celebration serves as a deep inspiration for all of us to reflect on the seeds of the Bodhisattva within ourselves.
Let us strive to practice the Four Bodhisattva Vows and work towards a society free from suffering—especially by challenging caste and all forms of discrimination.
Thank you.
