Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday visited Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur, the historic site where chief architect of India's Constitution Dr. B.R. Ambedkar along with his supporters converted to Buddhism in 1956.
While writing in the visitors' diary at the memorial, PM Modi said that it would be the biggest tribute to Babasaheb Ambedkar if a "developed and inclusive Bharat" is made.
Prior to reaching Deekshabhoomi, the Prime Minister had visited the Dr. Hedgewar Smruti Mandir, where he paid tributes to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) founder K.B. Hedgewar and the organization's second chief, M.S. Golwalkar.
At Deekshabhoomi, he stepped into the imposing stupa and paid his respects to Ambedkar's embalmed 'asthi' (ashes). Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, both Nagpur natives, were present on the occasion.
In a message written in Hindi in the guest book, PM Modi expressed his profound sense of pride at having visited Deekshabhoomi, one of the five 'Panchteerths' that have been devoted to Dr. Ambedkar. "This holy site emits Babasaheb's vision of social harmony, equality, and justice," he wrote.
He went on to highlight that Deekshabhoomi is a source of inspiration and an impetus for the people to establish a system based on equal rights and justice for the downtrodden and underprivileged. "I strongly believe that in this Amrit Kaal, we will take the nation to newer heights of development by adhering to the principles and teachings of Babasaheb Ambedkar. An emerging and inclusive Bharat will be the best tribute to him," PM Modi stated.
Dr. Rajendra Gavai, a representative of the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Smarak Samiti, which manages Deekshabhoomi, noted that the Prime Minister felt deeply blessed after paying respects at the memorial.
Gavai also highlighted PM Modi’s message, emphasizing the importance of respecting differing ideologies while advancing one’s own school of thought. "Our Constitution upholds the principle of respecting all viewpoints," he said, elaborating on the Prime Minister’s sentiments.
This marked PM Modi’s second visit to Deekshabhoomi, following his first visit in 2017.
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