Navi Mumbai: The Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial in Sector 15, Airoli, developed by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC), has drawn over 3.61 lakh visitors since its inauguration in December 2021. Ahead of Ambedkar jayanti, NMMC has released the number of people that has visited the memorial.
"Citizens from across the country and abroad have praised the memorial for its unique design and powerful representation of Dr. Ambedkar’s ideology, particularly his belief that "Knowledge is Power." Said an official.
Built without a traditional statue, the memorial offers a rich and immersive experience through its rare photo galleries, e-library, holographic projection systems of Babasaheb’s speeches, and a vast library with more than 5,000 books. A 50-meter dome shaped like a pen nib symbolizes the intellectual legacy of Dr. Ambedkar and has become a defining feature of the structure.
Key highlights include a meditation center with a 200-person capacity, a special Constitution section, and a fully-equipped auditorium that regularly hosts lectures under series like “Vicharvedh” and “Jagar”. These events have seen participation from eminent personalities including Dr. Narendra Jadhav, Dr. Bhalchandra Mungekar, and filmmaker Nagraj Manjule, among others.
This year’s “Jagar 2025” featured speakers such as Prof. Praveen Davne, Dr. Harish Wankhede, and poet Arun Mhatre, attracting packed audiences that spilled beyond the auditorium.
"Despite growing concerns over the declining culture of reading and public lectures, the memorial continues to see overwhelming attendance, with live screenings often required for overflow crowds. Special occasions such as Ambedkar Jayanti, Mahaparinirvan Day, Constitution Day, and Buddha Purnima witness footfalls of 7,000–8,000 people. On weekends and holidays, daily visitors average over 300" said the official.
Students from schools and colleges frequently tour the memorial, many expressing renewed admiration for Dr. Ambedkar’s multifaceted contributions. Families, institutions, and educational groups alike have made the site a regular stop for learning and reflection.
In anticipation of heavy footfall on April 14, Ambedkar Jayanti, the NMMC has made comprehensive arrangements to ensure smooth management of the crowd.
