Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar's life was a testament to the power of education and the pursuit of knowledge. To be a true follower of Babasaheb, one must give utmost importance to learning," said Prof. Mrudul Nile, noted academic and researcher from the University of Mumbai. He was speaking at the ongoing ‘Jagar’ lecture series organized by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation at the Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial in Airoli.
As part of the fortnight-long celebration of Dr. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary, Prof. Nile delivered a powerful lecture on “Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Thoughts on Marginalization, Liberation, and Awareness.” Drawing from the 1938 publication “Untouchable Workers of Bombay City”—prefaced by Dr. Ambedkar and written by G.R. Pradhan—Prof. Nile analyzed historical data and presented a comparative study of the social and economic conditions of marginalized communities between 1938 and 2024.
"Despite the passage of decades, there is little evidence of significant socio-economic improvement in the lives of the underprivileged," he noted. Using comprehensive statistics, he explored themes such as education, employment, income, economic resources, and indebtedness, emphasizing that the struggle for equality remains ongoing.
Highlighting Babasaheb’s embrace of Buddhism, Prof. Nile explained how Ambedkar recognized the need for social identity and adopted a religion grounded in rationality, reform, and reason. He also cited Ambedkar’s speeches on nation-building, underlining that true development lies in achieving social and economic equality.
Prof. Nile’s data-backed, insightful lecture was attended by a large audience, who appreciated the depth of his research and clarity of presentation.
The final session of the ‘Jagar’ lecture series will be held on Sunday, April 13, under the theme “Bhima, Because of Your Birth.” It will feature dynamic youth leaders from various fields, including Nikhil Adsule, Anand Bansode, Suraj Waghmare, Ashwin Nandapurkar, and Gunpriya Sarpate. The speakers will reflect on the influence of Babasaheb in their lives, the importance of education and reading, and their personal journeys.
Deputy Commissioner Sanghratna Khillare has urged citizens, especially youth, to attend the concluding session in large numbers and be part of this meaningful dialogue.
