The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) inaugurated the ‘Jagar 2025’ lecture series at the Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial in Airoli, marking the birth anniversary celebrations of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar.
The series commenced with a lecture on “Social Justice and Equality” by author and speaker Dr. Harish Wankhede.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Wankhede emphasized that Dr. Ambedkar’s ideology is fundamentally centered on human welfare and social justice. He highlighted Babasaheb’s revolutionary efforts in ensuring equal rights for all, particularly his pioneering work in securing women’s equality through the Indian Constitution, a global first. Dr. Wankhede described the fight against caste as a fight for true self-rule, reflecting Babasaheb’s visionary outlook.
He further elaborated on Babasaheb’s ideological framework, which included fundamental equal rights for all, as enshrined in the Constitution, the need to reform traditional systems through policies of social justice, the importance of enhancing the state’s execution capacity and ensuring representation, and the necessity of a social revolution. Dr. Wankhede stressed that social justice is just the first step, and Babasaheb’s ultimate vision was for marginalized individuals to rise to positions of power and influence.
"His lecture, delivered in both Marathi and English, was met with resounding applause, as he presented Babasaheb’s ideas in a clear and engaging manner," said an official.
The speaker praised the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial, calling it a perfect space for understanding the depth of Babasaheb’s intellectual legacy. The memorial’s library and its museum housing rare photographs was lauded. Such infracture was said to provide visitors with a profound insight into Babasaheb’s life and work.
Deputy Commissioner Sangharatna Khillare, head of the memorial, expressed satisfaction at the enthusiastic response from the public, "It must be noted that the jagar lecture series was conducted based on the public's demand," she said.
The next lecture in the ‘Jagar 2025’ series is scheduled for Friday, April 4, 2025, at 6:30 PM, featuring renowned writer, poet, and speaker Prof. Pravin Davane, who will speak on “Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar – The Bharat Ratna of the Youth.” Citizens are encouraged to attend in large numbers.
