Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar College, a prominent institution committed to the educational upliftment of marginalized communities, celebrated its Diamond Jubilee with grandeur and enthusiasm. The event was graced by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Chief Justice of India Bhushan Gavai as chief guests. The ceremony was presided over by Bhante Arya Nagarjun Surai Sasai, President of the Deekshabhoomi Memorial Committee, with several distinguished guests including Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat, Justice Chandrashekhar of the Bombay High Court, and committee members Dr. Kamaltai Gavai, Sudhir Phulzhele, and others in attendance.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Fadnavis praised the college’s 60-year journey, highlighting its crucial role in delivering quality education to the underprivileged. He acknowledged the institution’s humble beginnings with just 5 classrooms, 5 teachers, and 300 students, and its transformation into a well-established center with 6,000 students, 50 classrooms, and 40 faculty members. Fadnavis emphasized that the college continues to reflect the values of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar by being a catalyst for social change and educational empowerment.

Chief Justice Bhushan Gavai, in his keynote address, urged students to embrace the ideals of Dr. Ambedkar and work toward both personal and collective progress. He honored the contributions of pioneers such as Dadasaheb Gaikwad, Dadasaheb Gavai, Dadasaheb Kumbhare, and Sadanand Phulzhele in building the college’s foundation. Recalling historical milestones like the arrival of Dr. Ambedkar’s ashes in Nagpur during the Dhamma Deeksha Silver Jubilee in 1981, Gavai remarked on the city’s rich tradition of unity and respect for Ambedkarite values. He concluded his speech by reciting the powerful poem “Bhim Vandana” written by renowned poet Suresh Bhat.

The event also featured the felicitation of Chief Justice Gavai by CM Fadnavis and Bhante Arya Nagarjun. Five students from the college were honored for their exceptional achievements in various fields. Principal Dr. Deepa Panekar delivered the welcome address and vote of thanks, while Prof. Dr. Vidya Chorpagar conducted the event. The Diamond Jubilee stood as a testament to the college’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and social justice.