New York Honors Dr. Ambedkar
• April 14 Becomes Ambedkar Day
• Global Tribute to India’s Equality Icon
Unmesh Gujarathi
Sprouts News Exclusive
In a landmark moment for global civil rights, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has officially proclaimed April 14, 2025 as “Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar Day,” commemorating the 134th birth anniversary of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar—India’s chief constitutional architect, visionary jurist, economist, and one of the most influential global human rights pioneers.
Signed and sealed by the Office of the Mayor, the proclamation pays tribute to Dr. Ambedkar’s lifelong crusade for democracy, dignity, women’s rights, and justice for marginalized communities.
Mayor Eric Adams stated:
“Dr. Ambedkar—whose message to his followers was ‘educate, agitate, organize!’—advocated against the exploitation of farmers and tenants in India, as well as the social institution of untouchability. He spent his life fighting for the diversity, equity, and inclusion which have long defined the five boroughs.”
A Columbia University alumnus, Dr. Ambedkar’s years in New York deeply influenced his thinking on justice and equality—ideas that empowered more than 300 million people in India and inspired democratic values worldwide. His legacy as the principal architect of the Indian Constitution continues to echo through human rights institutions globally.
“Ours is a battle not for wealth or power. It is a battle for freedom. It is a battle for the reclamation of human personality.”
– Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
• Global Recognition of a Global Icon
Dr. Ambedkar’s birthday is now observed in over 100 countries by parliaments, UN missions, and academic institutions. His universal appeal as a symbol of justice was echoed by global leaders.
Helen Clark, former UNDP Administrator and Prime Minister of New Zealand, remarked in 2016:
“Dr. Ambedkar understood that inequalities pose a fundamental challenge to well-being. His vision continues to inspire our work at UNDP, especially in advancing inclusion, equality, and dignity for all.”
Amina J. Mohammed, UN Deputy Secretary-General, added in 2017:
“Dr. Ambedkar was a tireless advocate for equality, especially for women and marginalized communities. His vision aligns deeply with the values and mission of the United Nations.”
• Deelip Mhaske: The Man Behind the Movement
The successful campaign for the proclamation was led by Deelip Mhaske, President of the Foundation for Human Horizon and an internationally respected Ambedkarite leader. Mhaske has worked tirelessly to elevate Dr. Ambedkar’s global profile through political, diplomatic, and community platforms.
With the blessing of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mhaske launched the first-ever Ambedkar Jayanti celebration at the United Nations in 2016—a tradition that has since grown into a major international observance.
He has also served as a key figure in strengthening India–U.S. relations, collaborating across Democratic and Republican administrations and pushing for caste equity and minority rights. Notably, Mhaske spearheaded the 2023 co-naming of East 63rd Street in Manhattan as “Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Way”—a historic first in the United States.
“Thank you, Mayor Adams. This proclamation is more than symbolic—it is a moral declaration that positions New York as a global capital for human rights and justice,” said Mhaske.
“And thank you to Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan—your tireless efforts have made this a beacon of hope for the 1.5 billion people who remain oppressed worldwide.”
• Global Leaders React
At a recent United Nations celebration, dignitaries and thought leaders shared their appreciation:
Hon. Ramdas Athawale, Indian Minister of Social Justice:
“I thank my friend Deelip Mhaske for taking Dr. Ambedkar’s name to the global stage. His journey from Columbia to creating India’s future shows how New York has nurtured great minds.”
Ashu Singh, entrepreneur and founder of Nimit Palace Hotels:
“Dr. Ambedkar is no longer bound by nation or caste. He is celebrated globally as the greatest Indian thinker of the modern era.”
Prof. Akansha Anand, South Asian scholar:
“Dr. Ambedkar’s vision for a just society—built on merit, not birthright—continues to inspire students across the globe.”
Snehal Ukey, psychotherapist and native of Nagpur:
“His revival of Buddhism launched a movement of liberation. Today, New York—his intellectual home—embraces his message, reminding us that caste-based prejudice must also be challenged in the diaspora.”
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• Ambedkar’s Flame Burns Brighter Than Ever
In a world still grappling with systemic inequality, Dr. Ambedkar’s ideals resonate more than ever. His call for social liberty, inclusion, and equity continues to influence global institutions and social movements.
“So long as you do not achieve social liberty, whatever freedom is provided by the law is of no avail to you.”
– Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
With this historic proclamation, New York City joins a growing chorus of voices reclaiming Ambedkar’s dream of a world where freedom is equal, justice is universal, and dignity is non-negotiable.