Dhammachakra Pravartan Din, a day of profound significance in the history of Buddhism, is set to be celebrated on October 14, 2024. This annual event commemorates the momentous occasion when Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, renounced Hinduism and accepted Buddhism along with approximately 600,000 followers. The day is a testament to Dr. Ambedkar's unwavering commitment to social justice and equality, and it continues to inspire millions of Buddhists worldwide.
The celebrations will take place primarily at Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur, a site that holds immense historical and spiritual importance. Deekshabhoomi, which translates to 'Place of Ordination,' was where Dr. Ambedkar and his followers formally converted to Buddhism on October 14, 1956. The site is beautifully decked up each year to welcome thousands of devotees from across the country who gather to honor this momentous occasion.
This year's celebrations will focus purely on the religious aspect, with no political leaders invited to the dais. The decision by the Deekshabhoomi Memorial Conservation Committee aligns with their vision of keeping the event centered around the teachings of the Buddha and Dr. Ambedkar's legacy. Religious leaders, including Bhadanta Arya Nagarjuna Surai Sasai, president of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial Committee, will guide the devotees through the spiritual rituals.
The Dhammadiksha ceremony, a pivotal part of the celebrations, began on Thursday and will continue for three days. Hundreds of devotees took part in a mass initiation ceremony early Thursday morning. Led by Bhadanta Sasai and the Bhikkhu Sangha, the devotees took the 22 vows prescribed by Dr. Ambedkar, reaffirming their commitment to the Buddhist way of life.
Among the religious dignitaries present were Bhadanta Dnyaneshwar from Kushinagar and Mahabodhi Mahavihar Mukti Movement pioneer Akash Lama, both of whom addressed the crowd, speaking on the significance of Dr. Ambedkar's conversion and its lasting impact on Indian society. Deekshabhoomi is buzzing with activity as hundreds of devotees continue to arrive.
To manage the influx of people, Central Railway has announced 13 special trains between Nagpur and Lokmanya Tilak Terminal, ensuring smoother travel for those attending the event. A series of events have been planned throughout the day, including the hoisting of the Panchsheel flag and cultural performances, such as the theatrical presentation of Buddhist stories and songs by Prabuddha Bagde and Sancha.
The main ceremony is set for Saturday, October 12, with a mass Buddha Vandana and the formal celebration of the Dhammachakra Pravartan anniversary. The highlight will be a gathering at 6 pm, chaired by Bhadanta Sasai, who will lead a collective prayer for peace and prosperity. The event is expected to draw thousands more as the day unfolds.
In addition to Nagpur, other parts of India and even abroad will be celebrating this significant day. For instance, Dr. Ambedkar International Mission (AIM) USA will be hosting its own celebrations at Simpsons Hall in Old Bridge, New Jersey. The event will feature cultural activities like group and solo song performances, dance performances, kids programs, quizzes, speeches, and panel discussions.
The significance of Dhammachakra Pravartan Din extends beyond mere religious observance; it symbolizes a pivotal moment in the fight against social injustice and caste discrimination in India. By converting to Buddhism, Dr. Ambedkar sought to escape the oppressive caste system prevalent in Hinduism, which he believed perpetuated inequality and discrimination.
Dr. Ambedkar's decision to adopt Buddhism was influenced by his extensive study of various religions. He ultimately chose Buddhism for its moral values and teachings that promote equality and justice. The choice of October 14 also coincides with Dussehra, a festival that represents the victory of good over evil, further enhancing the day's significance as a celebration of liberation from oppression.
Every year on Ashoka Vijayadashami, millions of Buddhists gather at Deekshabhoomi to celebrate the mass conversion. October 2016 marked the Diamond Jubilee of this event. In recent years, thousands of people have converted to Buddhism on Dhammachakra Pravartan Din and Ashoka Vijayadashami at Deekshbhoomi. For example, in 2018 around 65,000 people and in 2019 around 67,543 people converted to Buddhism.
The event serves as a reminder of Dr. Ambedkar's enduring legacy and the ongoing struggle for social justice in India. It is a powerful statement against historical injustices faced by marginalized communities, particularly Dalits. The collective prayers and recitations of the 22 vows that Dr. Ambedkar took on the day he renounced Hinduism are an integral part of these celebrations.
In preparation for the large influx of devotees, local authorities have made significant arrangements. The Municipal Administration in Nagpur has been readying itself for the occasion by setting up aid centers at Deekshabhoomi and organizing health camps at four different locations. These measures aim to ensure that all attendees have access to necessary facilities during their visit.
Central Railway has also announced special trains between Mumbai and Nagpur to facilitate smoother travel for those attending the event. This initiative underscores the importance of this day and the efforts being made to make it accessible to all those who wish to participate.
As devotees gather at Deekshabhoomi, they are not just celebrating a historical event but also reaffirming their commitment to the principles of equality and justice that Dr. Ambedkar championed. The Dhammachakra Pravartan Din is a testament to the enduring power of Dr. Ambedkar's vision and its continued relevance in modern times.
In conclusion, Dhammachakra Pravartan Din 2024 promises to be a grand celebration of Dr. Ambedkar's legacy and the triumph of Buddhism over social injustices. As thousands gather at Deekshabhoomi and other locations around the world, they will be reaffirming their commitment to the values of equality, justice, and peace that Dr. Ambedkar so eloquently espoused.
