Is the Ambedkar Statue Unveiling at UNESCO Headquarters a Landmark Moment for India?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Statue of Babasaheb Ambedkar unveiled at UNESCO.
- Event coincided with Constitution Day.
- Gift from the Government of Maharashtra.
- Significant recognition of Ambedkar's legacy.
- Attended by international dignitaries.
Mumbai, Nov 26 (NationPress) The statue of Bharat Ratna Babasaheb Ambedkar, revered as the principal architect of India's Constitution, was officially unveiled at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) headquarters in Paris on Wednesday.
The statue, which now graces the courtyard of the UNESCO headquarters, was a generous gift from the Government of Maharashtra.
The unveiling coincided perfectly with Constitution Day, ensuring that the statue of Ambedkar stands proudly at the UNESCO Paris complex on this momentous occasion.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, in a post on social media platform X, expressed, “This is a proud moment for Maharashtra and India. On Constitution Day, the statue of MahaManav BharatRatna Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, presented by the Government of Maharashtra, has been unveiled at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.”
He expressed gratitude towards all officials and dignitaries at UNESCO.
“The esteemed figure of Babasaheb Ambedkar, with his intellect and vision, provided the world with guidance on equality, fraternity, and social reform. The Constitution of India is a testament to his noble contributions. The unveiling of his statue on Constitution Day is a profound gesture honoring the Constitution of the world’s largest democracy,” remarked CM Fadnavis.
“We view this occasion, representing the entire population of Maharashtra, as a chance to express our deepest reverence for Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar. I also extend my congratulations to Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi and everyone who worked tirelessly to bring this statue to fruition. On this day, I wish well to all citizens,” added the Chief Minister.
The statue was revealed at the UNESCO headquarters by UNESCO Director-General Khalid Al-Inay. India’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Vishal Sharma, along with other dignitaries, attended the ceremony.
According to the Chief Minister's office, the Government of Maharashtra has previously initiated various efforts to honor Ambedkar, including acquiring his residence in London and transforming it into a museum, as well as erecting a statue of Babasaheb at Koyasan University in Japan.
Fadnavis also mentioned that progress on the International Memorial of Babasaheb Ambedkar at Indu Mill in Mumbai has been accelerated, indicating that he has been consistently issuing directives in this regard.